With the exception of mutants (X-Men …), millionaires (Batman, Iron Man …) and residents of distant planets (Superman, Thor …), many of the superheroes we read about in comic books and watch on the big screen started out as everyday human beings. They are often portrayed as über-dorks who would not normally be considered superhero quality (Hello, Peter Parker? Steve Rogers?) So, what is it that transforms these Nerd Hall of Fame contenders into world-savers? What traits do they share in common?

The Old Testament book about a man named Nehemiah shares the details of his efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem after Israel’s enemies had demolished it. In chapter 3, he mentions a “House of Heroes” within the city. The reference is tucked in between other local landmarks, such as the King’s Garden and the Pool of Siloam. Several Bible commentators speculate that the House of Heroes may have been a memorial to members of David’s army or other courageous men of the day. Whatever the original details were, the fact remains that someone thought it would be meaningful to recognize people of extraordinary caliber in that place.

The mystery surrounding the House of Heroes in Nehemiah reminds me of the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. The monument is etched with symbolic pictures representing Peace, Victory and Valor. Without knowing the soldiers’ names, we recognize that they gave up their own lives for the sake of the cause.

Is that what makes a hero? In many regards, I would contend that the answer is yes. Jesus said that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for a friend (John 15:13). To die for a noble cause is certainly heroic, but does it always require dying in order for someone to be considered a hero? Think about the superheroes you remember from childhood. What do they have in common? Courage, selflessness, dedication, honor … the list goes on.

We may not have alien-born parents, mutant genes or futuristic technology to equip us with superhuman powers, but we, too, can exhibit heroic traits in our day-to-day, human lives. Let’s devote our prayer time this week to thinking through ways that we can become heroes wherever our paths take us.