Every generation has its heroes – its giants. Those who pave the way for us through their hard work and dedication. Those who exemplify prized virtues like humility, integrity, devotion, and ingenuity. Our nation has been shaped by figures like these, their pictures hang in monuments throughout the country. The church has giants too. Preachers, elders, Bible class teachers, and servants of all kinds, who have set forth profound examples of what it means to be a New Testament Christian. Many lives and congregations have been forever changed because of them. We admire their faithfulness and we appreciate their example. We stand on their shoulders.
It is good for us to have giants. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1), and reminded Timothy of the example set for him by his Mother and Grandmother (2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15). Consider the Hebrews writer who spoke of the great “cloud of witnesses” surrounding us–Abel, Enoch, Moses, Abraham, and others– then commanded, “Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct” (Heb. 13:7). Who among us could not benefit from the example of a godly husband, or a beloved brother who illustrates patience in trial, or a steadfast sister whose quiet work ethic touches countless lives through the years?
Our giants in the faith impact our lives greatly, but sadly, they do not live forever. When they pass, we rejoice for their victory but we mourn our loss and feel a void in their absence. As we reflect on the faithful lives of those who have gone, the question arises–where is the next generation of giants? Who will rise up and set the standard? Every generation needs its heroes–its giants. Every generation needs strong examples of faithfulness to lead the way. We need shoulders to stand on. Will you provide them?