In the realm of heroes and monsters, there exists a delicate balance, a concept vividly encapsulated by American novelist Richard Kadrey’s words: “My head is full of Monsters, and I am one of them.” At first glance, this assertion may seem paradoxical, even absurd. However, investigate deeper, and you’ll unearth a profound truth about the nature of heroism and the human psyche.
A year ago, while perusing motivational content on YouTube, I stumbled upon a compelling discourse. The speaker argued that every hero, in order to fulfill their noble duty, must confront their inner monster. They must be willing to embrace a certain darkness, not for the sake of malevolence, but to safeguard the innocent. This sentiment resonated deeply with me, sparking introspection and reflection.
The speaker likened this internal struggle to the discipline of a martial arts student. Just as a skilled fighter learns to harness their strength judiciously, a hero must wield their inner monster with precision, unleashing it only when compelled by absolute necessity.
In Luke 22:51-52, this concept manifested vividly in the actions of Peter, one of the central figures in a poignant text. When faced with the imminent arrest of his beloved teacher, Jesus, Peter seized his sword with resolve, willing to wield it against those who threatened his mentor, friend and Messiah. In that moment, Peter embodied the duality of hero and monster, driven by a fierce determination to protect the sacred.
Reflecting on this narrative, I couldn’t help but recall a personal anecdote from my time in the Marine Corps. Despite my own skepticisms and lack of commitment regarding matters of faith, I found myself fiercely defending my father’s honor when his integrity was challenged. To put it plainly I almost laid hands on someone whom I had no intentions on praying for. Much like Peter, I was driven by a primal instinct to shield those I held dear, even if it meant embracing the inner monster within. In essence, the tale of Peter underscores the inherent tension between light and shadow, good and evil, within each of us. It serves as a poignant reminder that heroism often demands confronting the darkness within ourselves, harnessing it not for destruction, but for the greater good. Stay tuned for Part 2 as we discuss complexities of faith, doubt, and redemption.
Blessings,
Pastor Q
Hope Builds Legacy 