They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground.

These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised … – Hebrews 11:37-39

Martyrs for their faith.

The Greek word for martyr is simply, "witness." There is no greater witness to the power and integrity of one's convictions than to lay down one's life for others. Jesus said that there was no greater love.

Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives us what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."

Here is what one old preacher called, "The roll call of the faithful."

We risk being called misguided and deceived if we give all to one thing, but that will not deter us. We are guided by a voice that to us, is unmistakably clear. It is not a bargain or a wager. It is a conviction and a joy to lose our lives for Jesus' sake.

Most of us will never to called to this level of commitment, but we pray that if called upon …

 … we will be ready.

We have heroes today too!