The SG Notebook

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2

What is a hero? Is it someone who is brave, fearless, and victorious, accomplishing some great deed on behalf of someone else or for some cause? Yes, a hero is all of these things. But this person’s greatness has nothing to do with fame or fortune. He or she may be totally unknown by the vast majority. Some heroes may have worn fine clothes, and there may be others who have worn rags.

Such is the Christian hero. No age, ethnicity, social class, or nation can lay claim to all of the heroes of our faith. And aside from our Lord Himself, there is little that encourages us more than this “great cloud of witnesses.” Their stories inspire us, strengthen our weak knees and propel us forward in faith.

The profiles we present here are about such people, many from the past. But heroes are still being made; they are made by necessity because the One who frames them requires cross-bearing. Read these short biographies about people “of whom the world was not worthy.” Hopefully they will inspire all of us to a larger degree of love, service and valiance. Hopefully, also, they will begin stirrings of greatness in some of our children.

3/1/09 UPDATE: For the most part, our articles about Christian Heroes will be moving over to our newsletter–another reason to subscribe! That doesn’t mean we still won’t be including a hero here now and then, especially current day heroes and martyrs.