Everyday Heroes: The Refusal of the Call 4

There is a moment in the 4th Star Wars movie, which is actually the first of the movies but isn't really...you know, the movie where we are introduced to Death Stars, Han Solo, Luke, Lea, Wookies, Darth Vader, Yoda, Obi Wan (sp?) and all the rest...Where was I? O, there is a moment in the movie where they are getting ready to attack the Death Star. Han has received his reward for the rescue of the Princess. Now, with the chance to help he decides to leave with the money, declaring that this is a hopeless attempt and that "What good is the money if you're not around to spend it?" He decides to save his own skin.

Once the attack on the Death Star begins, there is a moment when Luke is in trouble with the enemy's fighters. Just when it looks like he's toast, the pursuing ship is shot down, by none other than Han Solo. He returns in time to help his friend destroy the Death Star.

One of the things that is important to remember is that refusing the Call is not necessarily a permanent choice. We can change our minds. In the great heroic stories, the refusal of the Call is often undone by the reluctant object of the Call, coming around full circle and accepting the journey. What is important to ask ourselves is what Calls have we refused where there is still the opportunity to step out on the journey offered?

We would be following in the steps of the great saints, the great heroes of the world, the great hero's journey is just this. I believe this is grace. God not only forgives, but continually pursues us and invites in. No matter how many times we refuse, he is patient and waiting for us to say yes. Just once is all it takes.