Whether you are referring to one of Marvel Comics fictional characters, watching a Super Friends episode or analyzing films like Unbreakable, superheros often have 3 things in common. First, each possess some sort of super human power which defies the laws of physics and gravity. Second, individuals keep a low profile, developing an alias to keep their true identity a secret. Finally, most have an arch enemy who seeks to ascertain a weakness, trying to uncover their krytonite.
While reading the gospel of Mark, I stumbled upon an interesting thought, Jesus was a real life superhero. Like Superman, Jesus came from another world, Colossians 1:15-17. Before the day came to reveal his special powers, Jesus lived in obscurity as a carpenter in the lowly town of Nazareth. Jesus flew under the radar for thirty years until John the Baptist was imprisoned, then killed. However, before his three years of public service began, a real Devil threatened to destroy Jesus’ ministry before it began.
Following the calling of his first four disciples, Mark 1:16-20, Jesus introduced himself to the Jewish community. Meanwhile, a demonic spirit tried to spoil his coming out party, Mark 1:23-26. Foiling his enemies first plot, the legend of Jesus began to spread. Similar to modern superheros, Jesus remained humble. Rather than proclaiming, “look what I’ve done,” Jesus gave his heavenly Father the credit. Nearly 2,000 years following his resurrection and ascension into heaven, the Holy Spirit has been left behind so that those who believe, Romans 10:9-10, may experience an extraordinary life, John 10:10.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 