The kids and I are listening to C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia Radio Theatre by Focus on The Family pretty much every time we get in the car together.
We absolutely love it!
They do a fabulous job of bringing the books to life; we are so engaged by the actors and the imagery that they portray in our minds that we can hardly wait to get back in the car again to pick up where we left off. I did not read the stories as a kid, so listening to the audio dramas for the first time with my children is quite thrilling.
What is most exciting to me is drawing out the many Spiritual references that Lewis masterfully weaves throughout his writing. For example, when Aslan sings Narnia into existence much like God breathed us into life. Another, when Aslan gives up his life for Edmunds transgressions just as Jesus did for us.
And, of course when Aslan comes back to life and conquers the White Witch I can’t help but dwell on the resurrection of Jesus and our hope for His return one day. These were all wonderful opportunities for me to pause the audio and delve deeper with my children into those Spiritual truths giving them a clearer understanding of who we are and the magnitude of what Jesus did for us.
And, of course when Aslan comes back to life and conquers the White Witch I can’t help but dwell on the resurrection of Jesus and our hope for His return one day. These were all wonderful opportunities for me to pause the audio and delve deeper with my children into those Spiritual truths giving them a clearer understanding of who we are and the magnitude of what Jesus did for us.
Overall the parallel that stands out to me most between Aslan and God is the great mystery that surrounds them. Both are so rarely there physically, but their presence is very much known to those who believe. They each have loyal followers who don’t always know how or when they will reveal themselves yet it is anticipated none the less. 
Courage and bravery are required of the characters beyond their ability not because of who they are, but because of who he says they are. Aslan, just like God doesn’t always stop the battle or save every life, but you never doubt that he is in control of the unfolding events.
Courage and bravery are required of the characters beyond their ability not because of who they are, but because of who he says they are. Aslan, just like God doesn’t always stop the battle or save every life, but you never doubt that he is in control of the unfolding events.I know most of us are not crusaders battling it out with the enemy by arrow and by sword literally, but in the Spiritual realm there is a real engagement going on. The push and pull for our souls are at stake and we must keep our battle gear on at all times.
The characters in The Chronicles of Narnia were given, armor, weapons and magic to help them in their conflicts, but we are given something different and it requires more faith and trust in our real God. We are clearly warned…
“Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”
Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
So, are you geared up and ready to resist the devils schemes… not "getting ready", but ready now? Because he’s here and he wants to destroy you! I’m asking myself… am I really ready and I’m asking you… are you really ready?
I want to be fully prepared because we are in a battle everyday.
ReplyDeleteI love the Chronicles of Narnia! I cry every time I see the scene when Aslan is killed in Edmond's place. What a beautiful picture of Jesus.
I love the Focus on the Family Radio Theater version of these books! Some of the episodes in the later books brought tears to my eyes. I especially loved the voice of Reepicheep . . . I visited here last week for Word-filled Wednesday and came back today for a quick visit. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteI'm I really ready? I will be asking myself that all day. Thanks we need to worry less about the clothing we put on in this realm and more concerned about the armor of His realm. beautiful reminder!
ReplyDeleteEach day we are to be ready and prepared with the whole Armour of God on everyday. We must make sure that we are totally dressed with each garment on. But many times we get dressed and don't put our battle clothes on or we put the belt and helmet but leave everything else off. We can't fight the enemy and win if we don't put the whole Armour of God on. When I think of battle I think of the Roman Soldiers how they fully covered themselves so that they can stand all the darts that their opponents would throw at them. If we remember that while we are getting our physical body dressed to get our spiritual body dressed as well then when the enemy comes to attack us we won't be taken off guard or injured because we have our attire on. Great post Heidi as always.
ReplyDeleteI read all 7 books when I was a little girl and loved them! Still have my original copies. When my son was three years old I read the first book to him. When we got the point when Aslan is killed I remember my son breaking down in tears. I had to stop and explain to him that it was going to be okay. Aslan was going to come back to life just like Jesus! I was amazed that even at his young age he was so touched by Aslan. :)
ReplyDeleteEveryday we need to prepare ourselves for battle it is so easy for us to kick sidetracked.
I want to be ready! Ready for everything God asks of me, ready for battle and ready for when He comes again!
ReplyDeleteI must confess that I've never saw the movie or read the books. I do strive to put on my Armor every day. Sometimes I have to remind myself of the protection and armor He offers to me to defeat my enemy!
ReplyDeleteGreat analogy! I can't believe I still have never seen that movie! Ugh. I love how you have the kids listening to that radio program! Love love the picture of the Christian Soldier...it reminds me of a song I learned in youth camp..."Oneward Christian solder..." Yep we cant go into war whatever that looks like for each of us everyday without the armor of God. I can totally tell when I misplace my armor...and so can everyone else for that matter!:)
ReplyDeleteI never read the books as a child, but my kids love the movies and yes, the symbolism makes for wonderful lessons along the way! May we all prepare for the battles of the day, and stand tall in His Army!
ReplyDeleteHave a Blessed Day Heidi!