Lessons from Prince Caspian

We went to see the movie "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian" today. It is very well done --- definitely worth seeing! I must say that hubby and I enjoyed it as much as our children did. The movie even reminded me of a few very important life lessons.

Here are some thoughts ---

~ I must have faith like that of a little child: Lucy, the youngest of the four siblings, was the only one who could see Aslan (the lion, the Christ figure) at first. This is because she's the only one who had the simple faith of a child that the Bible teaches about. When her brother Peter asked her why she could see Aslan and he couldn't, she replied: "Perhaps you weren't looking." How often have I missed seeing Jesus because I wasn't looking for Him in my circumstances; being too focused on the problem rather than looking for the One who could provide the answers?

~ It is essential to wait upon the Lord: Later in the movie, Peter makes a plan to attack the castle. Lucy asks him to wait for Aslan; reminding him that it was Aslan that helped them succeed the last time. Peter proceeded with his plan anyway resulting in failure and loss. How many times have I forged ahead with my own agenda; neglecting to wait upon the Lord; then wondering why things didn't turn out properly?

~ My Jesus is indeed the lion and the lamb: Aslan is both gentle and powerful. He embraces and speaks to Lucy gently. At the same time, He powerfully awakens the trees and the river! Awesome contrast --- reminds me of this song by Crystal Lewis:



Who is He --- who's the mightiest of all?
Who is He --- creation trembles at His call?
Who is He --- the lowly sacrifice?
Who paid a victim's price, His name is Jesus.

Who is He --- with the power none can tame?
Who is He --- that every foe would fear His name?
Who is He --- who was humbly led away?
To suffer that dark day, His name is Jesus.

Jesus, from the Father's own right hand.
Jesus, Son of God and Son of Man.
Jesus, who died and rose again.
Jesus, He's the Lion and the Lamb.
He's the Lamb that was slain.
He's the Lion that reigns.
My Savior and King.
Both the same.

Who is He --- with the eyes that burn like fire?
Who is He --- oh, the wonder He inspires?
Who is He --- who bore the guilt and shame?
For those who'd gone astray, His name is Jesus.

~ FInally, I can trust God for He is sovereign: Towards the end of the movie, Aslan tells the Kings and Queens of Narnia to rise. Prince Caspian looks up and says: "I don't think I'm ready yet." Aslan replies: "For that reason, then, I know you are." This hit me powerfully. How many times have I said "no" to God only because I didn't think I was quite ready yet? How many times have I missed seeing His power and glory because I didn't obey? This scene in the movie definitely reminded me of God's promise in 2 Corinthians 12:9, which says "...for my power is made perfect in weakness." This is such great encouragement as it pertains to the church plant journey that God has placed our family in at this time!

"He called a little child and had him stand among them. And He said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
---Matthew 18:2-4 (NIV)

"We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name."
---Psalm 33:20-21 (NIV)

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
---Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)