Heroes Run to Trouble

“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”—John 15:13

We had planned a church picnic for a Sunday afternoon at the Quemahoning Reservoir. As I prepared for morning worship, it was storming: hard rain, lightning, and thunder. I prayed for guidance concerning what to do about the church picnic. At around 7:30 AM, the weather channel was forecasting storms all day. Then a news flash reported the stage at the Indiana State Fair collapsed due to high winds and storms. Several were killed and many injured. Having prayed for guidance, I looked toward heaven and said, “Okay, Lord, I get it.” Immediately, I decided to move the picnic to the church fellowship hall. Of course, between services, the skies cleared, and it did not rain again until Sunday night after everything was over.

Updates on the Indiana State fair disaster told amazing accounts of heroism. As soon as the stage fell, instead of running away, Hoosiers went running into the debris to help. Their quick heroic efforts saved many out of the catastrophe. Heroes run into trouble. This past week as we remembered the 911 terrorism attacks, I observed similar reports from the Pentagon attack. As soon as they saw the flames and smoke, retired, active, and former military personnel went running into the fire rather than away. They guided and carried many to safety.

I continue to be proud to be an American. As we remember the 911 attacks, we are reminded of the many acts of sacrifice and bravery. Unlike the terrorists and suicide bombers who kill innocent victims and even their own people, American heroes run into trouble to benefit others without regard for their own well-being. The heroic firemen climbed the stair towers as fast as they could toward an unknown fate. The collapsing towers took their lives as they gave aid to others. The heroic passengers on Flight 93, charged the cockpit and saved the Capitol and many lives as they gave theirs. Yes, heroes run to trouble.

We sing in the national anthem, “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” As Americans, we have our share of faults, but we have lots to be proud about. When tyranny oppresses and evil attacks, American missionaries and American soldiers choose to run into trouble giving aid and support. Trouble seems to bring out the worst and best in us. The worst is that we depend so much on our superior military might that we think we are invincible and can cure every ill with power. The best is that Americans will sacrificially run to trouble rather than selfishly away from trouble.

I believe, as an American Christian, that America has benefited from living in a culture influenced by the sacrificial example of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. As He prepared to give His life on the Cross for the sins of the whole world, Jesus told His disciples to love one another as He loved them. He goes on to say, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). When the Church and when Christians get it right, we are seen as those who run to trouble. Troubled individuals, troubled homes, troubled cities, and troubled peoples around the world attract Christians like moths to a flame. Jesus has given us the example of sacrificial service.

More than an example, Jesus promises His power and presence. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:16, 20). Do you want to be counted for Jesus sake? Do you want to leave your mark in this world? Then be a hero for Jesus. Run into trouble. The Lord will meet you and use you there.