A Hero in Every Heart

I love this land, this people, this nation.

I was thinking this weekend about my Dad’s service in WW II in the navy. He never talked about it. As I ask others about the stories they’ve heard from that era, there seems to be a common thread of silence. I wonder if it’s because the brotherhood of those who fought was so powerful that they just didn’t speak of it. Or were there nightmares locked in their minds simply too painful to share? I just don’t know and it’s too late to ask.

I’ve been thinking about all the men and women who have died while serving our country and never lived to have children who can say “thank you, from the bottom of my heart.” Thank you. I will remember.

Wilmer C. "Bill" Banks (My Dad!)

Who me?

I have always loved Gideon. I'm sure you remember the story. He’s the guy who was hiding in the winepress to thresh wheat because the land was full of enemies. An angel showed up and said to Gideon, “Hey you! Mighty Man of Valor!” Gideon looked around wondering,”Who me? Who are you talking to?” And the angel warrior points at him. This has always made me laugh. Who hasn’t felt inadequate and fearful and thought “moi?!” Who hasn’t been found hiding behind walls (often of our own making) that offer perceived protection against our enemies?

I find myself constantly needing to move out in courage that I don’t feel to conquer enemies with names like doubt, fear and comfort. How can comfort be an enemy? Ahh- comfort zones can certainly keep us in the land of safety, security and the status quo. I’m pretty sure we aren’t designed to stay the same.

Enough about me, let’s get back to Gideon. The angel of the Lord told Gideon to “Go in the strength that you have and I will be with you.” What a great thing to know! But he was still afraid. (You see why I relate to this guy?) So he snuck out at night to do the first part of what he was supposed to do. He still got the job done and wasn’t penalized for being a chicken. The next chapter in Judges tells the fascinating story of the victory of Gideon’s army. But once again, Gideon has to be reassured beyond what would even seem reasonable. But God was patient with him and an awesome victory resulted.What seems small and inadequate in our sight can be mighty if God is with us. Is that good news or what?