God's Heroes vs. the World's Heroes

Earth has its heroes. Some are just pretend.....cartoon characters or movie characters. Some are splash across newspapers and magazines for the world to "ooh" and "aah" about.

God's heroes look different. They do not where super capes or masks. They are real. They are the same no matter where you see them. They are not famous.....and they do not want to be famous.

The world lost one of God's heroes today.

You see, there is a pastor who lives in a small town in South Mississippi. He and his beautiful wife have lived there a long, long time. They raised their children there. Their grandchildren grew up there.

I remember the house they used to live in. It always smelled like there was something baking all the time.....and coffee. I also remember the smiles we saw there. And their yard and garden was so beautiful all the time. I remember the high ceilings in their living room and the big windows for the sun to shine through.

But what I remember the most are the stories my dad told me about how this man was his mentor. My dad worked at an upholstery factory when I was a baby. This pastor worked there, also. He began to encourage my dad to become more involved in church....not just for himself, but for his wife and child. My dad has been dedicated to his faith, his family, and his church 100% ever since.

This pastor and his wife were an inspiration to so many through the years. He left a legacy!

There is another couple who I remember making such an impact on my parents. We actually called them "Uncle Grady and Aunt Ruth". Just like Bro.and Mrs. Odom, they were such strong Christian examples. They had no children of their own.....but all of us felt like their kids and grandkids.

I started thinking.....how old were they when they were such an influence on people? I think they were close to my age! Then, I have to ask...am I a strong Christian influence like they were?

I may not be able to leave as big of a legacy as these heroes....but I sure can try!

Lord, help me and guide me to be the mentor I need to be for someone who needs more of You.

I may be crying as I type this post, but I know I will see them again! I bet there is a huge party going on right now in heaven!