C.S. Lewis

22Nov
‘God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, 
because it is not there. 
There is no such thing.’ 
-C.S.Lewis


Today the Episcopal Church celebrates the apologist and spiritual writer Clive Staples Lewis. As you probably know, Lewis was a staunch defender of the Christian Faith and wrote many books, both fiction and non-fiction, which sought to explain the faith in a logical and unifying way. When our children were young we would drive to their summer camps in North Carolina, and we often had one of Lewis’ novels from The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe series playing on the car tape deck. Given modern technology this almost seems quaint now, but at the time it was an excellent way for all of us to enjoy something together and to discuss what was the meaning of that story? I remember thinking these stories were filled with wonderful metaphors and allegory. The maturing children in the stories had to learn how to navigate safely through a world that was filled with evil, and where creation, sin, judgment, repentance, and ultimately redemption would depend upon the courage they showed and the moral decisions they made along the path of the story. A predominate theme was whom to trust and where to place their faith for the ultimate hope of salvation.  


The questions posed in Lewis’ work are the very same ones we all struggle with in daily life. Where do we put our trust? Do I rely on myself for the decision or do I prayerfully consider my actions and quietly listen for an answer? Sometimes, like the children in Lewis’ books, I move quickly forward forgetting where my salvation lies. This generally does not bode well for the ultimate outcome. And, just like those same storybook children, I come to realize that my true hope and path can only be found when I put my trust, my courage, in the Lord who indeed will lead me home.


Musical Reflection - Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring - J.S. Bach


O God of searing truth and surpassing beauty, we give you thanks for Clive Staples Lewis whose sanctified imagination lights fires of faith in young and old alike; Surprise us also with your joy and draw us into that new and abundant life which is ours in Christ Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

  i

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