Photo by Nrico, Flickr Creative Commons

Sometimes we’re tempted to think that the glory days of pioneers exploring new frontiers is a thing of the past. After all, when was the last time you saw a true pioneer?

If you cannot think of any, maybe it’s time to redefine what a pioneer is and does.

Note to self and anyone else reading these lines, pioneers are not required to drive covered wagons and travel the Oregon Trail.

What do pioneers look like today? Typically, they look like everyone else. They live in normal houses, drive to work in regular cars and wear everyday clothes. But this is usually where the similarities end.

Instead of thinking like average people, pioneers dare to dream and question why. They go places in their reasoning that most have never imagined. The word “no” has no place in their vocabulary. In fact, as far as they are concerned “no” means “yes.” Reality is a primer for future possibilities. Nothing is set in concrete.

It is the pioneers who create new technologies, discover disease cures, create new expressions of art, write new songs, forge positions of compromise to pass critical legislation, and risk their lives to extend help to those held hostage by the forces of poverty and ignorance. True pioneers are not distracted by praise, personal attacks or political pundits. With laser-like accuracy their focus is riveted on fulfilling their life mission.

Jesus is a Pioneer when it comes to our salvation. Paul says we should be, “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). NIV

Who do you think of as a twenty-first century pioneer?

Read more at the source: Contemporary Pioneers

Article excerpt posted on en.intercer.net from Spiritual applications.