We live in a world where there seems to be danger on every corner. In my country there are homeless people and unfortunate souls who have had their lives shattered by drugs all over the streets. In the country to the south people are being snatched from their workplaces and homes by immigration coming to get them. When I'm in the Philippines my parents-in-law won't let me leave the home because they tell me that I'll get kidnapped and ransomed. They say "You are white. People see money. Your a target!".
The Hive-Learners asked people to write about a fictional person you would ask to save you. It is kind of funny when I thought about it. There are so many "Heroes" in the movies and television these days. I guess everyone wants to look up to someone or something bigger than life to bring peace or justice to this world.
Marvel Superheroes like Captain America and Iron Man to protect humanity from those who would do harm. Or you can look at the new Superman movie. Nothing like an indestructible and uncorruptible hero to come and save the day. Flash to swoop in and rescue someone in the nick of time. Batman to solve the crime, save the innocent and put fear into the hearts of wrongdoers.
If I had to choose I'd go Superman. Nothing stops him, nothing harms him, and he always does what is right.
Of course if you want something a little less far fetched? Anyone else remember the A Team from the 1980's? A group of specially trained ex military running from the law but still making sure they help out those in need. Or perhaps someone like John Wick whose skills mean that he can stand up against pretty much anyone who stands in his way. Or perhaps a little someone who has a very particular set of skills. Sure those are all fictional but with enough money or power there are very very skilled people in this world who can work outside the typical channels to get things done.
If I had the money of Bezos or Musk I could get some elite bodyguards to ensure my safety. Or perhaps just bribe my way out of trouble. Then again if money doesn't open the right doors?
How about the political clout of a Trump, Putin or other powerful leader.
But the funny thing about money and power? If you have it then that puts a big target on your back and you are far more likely to have people out to get you and hold you for ransom, blackmail or worse.
Indeed, when I was in the Philippines one time I remember talking to a wealthy hotel owner. He lamented the fact that he had a lot of money. He told me that when he was young and poor he could get drunk, pass out on the street and wake up without worry. When he was rich he didn't dare go out without his six bodyguards because he was a target for many local petty criminals.
Honestly though? One thing I can say about this world is that : "No one makes it out alive". If I was captured, ransomed, or worse? Well, I could still live longer than someone who simply crosses the road and gets hit by a car. In that way it is faith that makes all the difference.
Who would I want on my side if I was captured for blackmail? I'd want Jesus on my side. Now some people may say that he is just as fictional as Superman and Batman. However, for a Christian like myself he is as real an entity as any other person. Of course you may not believe in any Deity and that is your right. You may believe in a totally different faith and I have no qualms with that. Indeed for those who are devout in other faiths I'd almost wager than you would want to hold onto your faith in time of trouble.
If you were Shinto it would hold comfort that your spirit lives on with the ancestors if something should befall you. If you are Buddhist or Hindu I'm sure that knowing Karma would even the scales if something happened to you that would be comfort. If you followed Islam, knowing that Allah balances the scales and brings justice would be a rock to lean on.
Faith brings hope and I will happily take hope over despair in times of need each and every time.
And just for fun I'll tell you a little about a historic figure who did exactly what I'm talking about.
Ever hear about a guy named Paul or possibly Saul? He lived so long ago that they didn't even use last names so he would be known as Paul (or Saul) of Tarsus. His life started off going very well, he had power, prestige and likely a high standing. Then things changed. There was a plot on his life, he was shipwrecked, he was stoned, he was beaten, he wound up in jail and eventually he was beheaded. Not exactly the ending most people hope for to be sure! Here is the thing though--he had faith, he had hope and he wrote letters and books which left a profound mark. He had faith and hope and even when things were looking pretty dark he always stood firm.
Sure it is nice to think about heroes who will defeat injustice and make sure we are safe and secure. Honestly though? Safety is never assured. The future is rarely rosy. There is always something to worry about. Some people trust in money. Some people trust in power. Some people trust in their strength. I lean into faith.
If you read this far then thank you and I'd be curious about your thoughts. I always like comments, even if you disagree.
As a final note. As a Christian I believe that God works through everyday ordinary people. Doctors, Police, Nurses, bus drivers, and even changing the hearts and minds of kidnappers. So, if I am ever held at gunpoint for whatever reason? I'll have faith and pray that the right people come at the right time :) Thanks for reading
