Friday, December 11, 2020

—Hello

Welcome to another day of Advent in Narnia.

Genesis 3:21, 23-24

“And the Lord God made garments of skins for the man and for his wife, and clothed them— therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from which he was taken. He drove out the man; and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim, and a sword flaming and turning to guard the way to the tree of life.”

Have you ever thought of the creation story as being part of the Christmas story? I had not until I read today’s Advent in Narnia entry titled, “Adam and Eve” then it made perfect sense. Our story, yours and mine begin with God and will ultimately end with God, all that remains is with whom & where we will spend eternity. The story of Adam and Eve is an ancient story and a popular story even among nonbelievers. As Christians this is a story about being human. The fall of man, sin committed in the Garden caused a separation from God. God was disappointed and rightfully angry that Adam and Eve could not follow a simple command. God’s disappointment and anger did not make Him stop loving them, God’s love is not conditional with our actions. Even though God sent Adam and Eve out the Garden, the paradise they were created in and from, God clothed them before closing the gates to the Garden. I’m not sure we, as the human race have progressed much since the ousting from the Garden, Eve blamed the serpent, Adam blamed Eve, and today, don’t we see the same behaviors in one another. Taking responsibility is the right move to made but it is also the hardest. I think oftentimes people don’t trust that God’s love will continue. Jesus’ birth was to bring good news and glad tidings to a lost world. He came because He loves us, every single living thing. We are His creation, we are His beloved.

Adam and Eve, a Christmas story. Medieval Christians honored Adam and Eve as the father and mother of all people and commemorated their story on December 24, the day before Christmas. Churches would have town-wide mystery plays of Creation, Adam and Eve, and the Nativity along with other stories to commemorate the day and teach the story of salvation. *For further information about this click the following link: https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Adam+and+Eve+Day

Switching storylines, to Narnia and the four Pevensie children, we can draw some connections and maybe even parallels from the Garden and the Wardrobe:

—God gave Adam and Eve clothes as they left paradise to a new place

—The children find fur coats as the enter a new land called Narnia.

—Adam and Eve faced dangers they had never experienced, working the ground; the very soil from which Adam had been created. They had to wear clothing which was new, they had no need of them before sin happened. Adam and Eve needed to learn and grow.

—Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy had coats that were too big for them, they needed to grow into them. Each child will learn and grow while in Narnia and eventually become new people, the Kings and Queens of Narnia.

Many generations have lived on the far side of paradise and as I mentioned earlier we still do not do a very good job of following God’s commandments. Even still, God loves us.

Isaiah 9:6

“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us.

Questions for Reflection:

• Medieval Christians saw Adam and Eve & Jesus and Mary as matched pairs. Adam and Eve brought death to humanity; Jesus and Mary brought life. Are there some other ways you might compare and contrast them?

• The story of the Fall is one of the most well known in the Bible. Why do you think this is? Does the story of the Fall speak to your life?

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Adam+and+Eve+Day

Thursday, December 10th, 2020

Hello dear friends—

To follow along in the book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” please read chapter 6.

Baruch 5:1-2 (NRSVCE)

The Book of Baruch can be found in the Apocrypha [apocrypha] and in the Old Testament for Catholics. *Additional references listed below.

“Take off the garment of your sorrow and affliction, O Jerusalem, and put on forever the beauty of the glory from God. Put on the robe of the righteousness that comes from God; put on your head the diadem of the glory of the Everlasting.”

Our Narnia story in chapter 6 tells us of all four Pevensie children walking into the wardrobe and into the snowy woods of Narnia. Susan, being the responsible girl, suggests that everyone grab a fur coat to wear since it is cold and snow covered in Narnia. Advent is a season of preparation. We all have our own ideas of what our preparation looks like. Some will fill their homes with sweet scents of the holiday, others will decorate with silver and gold with splashes of red and green. Other will hang stockings and other will hang the mistletoe. We may choose to listen to beautiful Christmas music or be entertained by holiday movies that touch our very souls. Family continue with old traditions and create new ones too. We share of our time and talents with friends, family and those in need. Just as Christ came for all, to save us all, should we not extend the same to others(?). This Advent season is about giving and receiving, not in the amount of money we spend or the size of the gifts we give…our gifts no matter the size or value is of no consequence if it is not given from LOVE! Love is and will always be the most important thing, Jesus came to be born out of LOVE, He died for us all out of LOVE, He forgives out of LOVE, and He’s coming again because of LOVE.

As we prepare for this Advent season be mindful of preparation, do not let it distract you from living and participating in the season. Susan could have over prepared for entering Narnia by packing clothing, food and survival gear to face the unknown but the coats were enough, their other needs were provided for by the Narnian’s they met along their journey. God does the same for us, stepping out in faith, prepared but following the call. The Bible tells us of many stories of God providing for His people; the children of Israel in the wilderness, God supplied them fresh manna from Heaven every day, and fresh water. Protected Daniel in the lions den. Even after Adam and Eve sinned, God still provide them with garments to wear. God is Good, God is always GOOD!

Questions for Reflection:

• Reflect on a time when God unexpectedly provided what you needed, especially if you were not even aware of the need.

—I have received money in the mail that I had completely forgotten about just in time to pay an unexpected bill.

—I have received an email with just the Bible verse I needed to hear during difficult times.

—I met a stranger who has become the friend, mentor and teacher, I didn’t know I needed and now I am forever changed and grateful.

• How is God providing what you need this Advent?

—Relationships with friends and family, staying in contact without being in contact with due to COVID-19.

• Is there something on your to-do-list that you can let go of, having faith that God will provide for you?

—Just because it used to always be a certain way doesn’t mean it can’t change into something new and perhaps even better.

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Book-of-Baruch

https://www.biblestudytools.com/apocrypha/kjva/

Wednesday, December 9th, 2020

Hello friends—

Mark 13:24-27, 35-37

“But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.”

In the book, “Advent in Narnia” the writer talks about this season of watching and waiting in two directions. The first, we are watching and waiting for the birth of Jesus, as the wisemen and shepherds did so long ago. Secondly, as Christians we are also watching and waiting for Christ to return. These two events are and will be drastically different, the baby Jesus arrives sweetly in a humble stable surrounded by pure love. The Bible tells us that Christ’s return will be will have power, earthquakes, angels and judgment. As we look at the Narnia story we find that the inhabitants of Narnia are waiting and longing for Aslan’s rerun for a very long time. The expectation is contagious to all hopeful Narnian’s and to the Pevensie children, eventually.

Below are Bible references from the Old and New Testament about Jesus’ birth and His second coming.

Daniel 7:1-28 ESV

Revelation 19:11-21 ESV

Questions for Reflection:

• What are ways you can “keep awake” to justice this Advent? You might consider choosing a particular cause that speaks to your heart, praying for the people involved, or donating to a related charity.

• What are ways you can “keep awake” to hope? You might consider making a list of things you worry about and writing next to each worry a hope you see for change and healing.

• What are ways you can “keep awake” to love? You might consider prayerfully picturing yourself, a loved one, or even someone you consider an enemy, surrounded by a warm light of love and grace.

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

http://www.biblegateway.com/

Daniel 7:1-28 ESV

Revelation 19:11-21 ESV

Tuesday, December 8th, 2020

Hello friends—

Please accept my apologies for my late posting of today’s advent material. I had a bout with writers block and needed some rest. Reading for today is from chapter 5 of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

Today, we will be discussing Edmund, he is one of Lucy’s older brothers. He is often getting poked at by his older siblings, Peter and Susan. Edmund also does his fair share of poking at his younger sister Lucy. Edmund often feels left out or left behind and unappreciated causing him to lash out at others. In my own personal life, I have found that it is to those we care the most for, that we hurt the most severely. I’m sure there’s some physiological reasoning behind that but I’m not skilled to present that case. So far in the Narnia story Edmund has managed all alone to cause great fear throughout all of Narnia not to mention the safety of his siblings. Edmund, lies and betrays Lucy, and when he is found out his recourse is to plot revenge. I too, find that I have had thoughts and actions just as Edmund. Not that I’m proudly telling you this, but sharing my personal struggles with you. None of us are perfect, no not one. Sin is sin! There’s a saying I learned from a friend, “naming and claiming” and that’s exactly what I’m doing. When we admit out loud things we are sorry for and are remorseful about the power they have over us is lifted. Carrying such burdens are cumbersome and unnecessary. Healing and forgiveness can only occur after we release their hold on us. Try the ARF approach:

1. Admission (self, others, God)

2. Repentance (self, others, God)

3. Forgiveness (self, others, God)

Romans 5:6-8

“For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Indeed, rarely will anyone die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person someone might actually dare to die. But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.”

Edmund does not realize the error of his ways (actions), until it’s too late. He finds himself in the castle of the White Witch and only then does he see clearly the ramifications of his actions and ultimate decision. Edmund was clearly guilty of dishonesty, selfishness and betrayal. Human. Each of us has a bit of Edmund inside us, as in the book, we are the sons and daughters of Adam. And, in the Bible, we are all descendants of Adam and Eve and of Abraham, all created by God for His glory. We are all human, just like Edmund and regardless of what we’ve done the prophet Isaiah wrote these words, “For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” ~Isaiah 9:6. Then in the New Testament in the Gospel of Luke we read these words, “Bear fruits in keeping with repentance.”Luke 3:8 (ESV)

Acts 17:26-28

“From one ancestor he made all nations to inhabit the whole earth, and he allotted the times of their existence and the boundaries of the places where they would live, so that they would search for God and perhaps grope for him and find him—though indeed he is not far from each one of us. For ‘In him we live and move and have our being’; as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we too are his offspring.’”

Questions for Reflection:

• What are some ways that you identify with Edmund? Do you see in yourself his desire for revenge, his anger, his loneliness and his feeling of being unlikeable?

—Honestly, I do relate to Edmund. What I have learned is that I need to like myself if I ever hope for others to like me. I try to foster the feelings I long for in my relationships with others. My friends and family are very precious to me and I spend time getting to know them and the things they enjoy, this is definitely something I do in a reciprocal manner. I consider myself wealthy in friends, and I have a close inner circle of friends I share my deepest thoughts with, they are priceless individuals who have seen my at worst and continue to love and support me. God is good, God is indeed Good All The Time! 🙏🏻🤍

• Have you ever betrayed someone you loved? What happened? Have you experienced reconciliation, either with the person or with God?

—I have and it still hurts today. I have completed the ARF (Admission/Repentance/Forgiven). Broken relationships take time to heal and often they are never the same. Rebuilding trust is a gradual process and honesty indeed is paramount. My best advice is to trust God and follow your heart. I’ve met some extraordinary people in my life and I thought we would be friends forever, some have but others, well I have a heart filled with their memories.

• Part of preparing our hearts for the coming of the Christ Child is reflecting on our past mistakes, betrayals and sins. Write a letter to God confessing some of your most difficult wrongdoing. If you carry an especially difficult sin on your heart, consider asking to meet with your pastor or priest or religious leader. Perhaps seek the rite of reconciliation if that is something your faith tradition makes provisions for.

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

http://www.biblegateway.com/

Monday, December 7th, 2020

Dear friends—

Welcome to my blog space and it is my hope you experience Advent with a renewed sense of wonder this year. It has been a difficult 2020. And although this is a season of hope and happiness it is also a season of struggle for many. The greatest gift of Advent and Christmas is the free gift of salvation, made possible through the birth of Jesus. The second greatest gift is the gift of your time, talents and the generosity of your heart. Today we are reading about “becoming like children.” Have you ever watched the pure joy and excitement of a child at Christmas? It is beautiful. The innocence and gratefulness is so beautiful, you wish you could bottle it up! Jesus is talking with his disciples in Matthew 18:2-3, he is teaching them the necessity of humility, and that to be childlike was to learn from Him, to listen for instructions. *A great reference is the Matthew Henry Commentary: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/matthew/18.html

This talking of childlike makes me thing of Lucy in our readings of, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” the brave innocence of Lucy going into the wooded forest of Narnia and talking with the faun, Mr. Tumnus. Then the stark contrast of Susan and Peter’s disbelief of the wardrobe. What are you doing for yourself during this season of Advent to be more childlike?

Definition of Childlike:

• marked by innocence, trust, and ingenuousness.

• delight.

• resembling, suggesting, or appropriate to a child

• Are there things about Advent that gives you a sense of childlike feelings or emotions?

—I have loved Christmas most of my life. I love: tree decorating; shopping for the perfect gifts; wrapping presents; giving presents; seeing the beautiful lights; exchanging good tidings with friends and strangers; sharing meals with friends and family; watching the enchantment in the faces of children as they see Santa; the toy aisle in every store; holiday foods and drinks, to mention a few!

—I also look forward to singing Christmas songs, especially the ones at church describing Jesus and His birth, they transport me to my youth, an opportunity for me to revisit those precious memories of special individuals who helped shape my faith from a very young age.

There are many ways to experience the childlike emotions of Christmas, the writer of the book “Advent in Narnia” suggested the following:

• Create a “Jesse Tree,”

—I had no idea what it was and if you already know, that’s awesome. Basically, it’s a bare branch hung with symbols of stories from the Old Testament, creating a family “tree” for Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child — a Christmas prequel. The name comes from Isaiah 11:1, “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” With doing a Jesse Tree each day of Advent read a passage from the Old Testament and hang a tiny/small ornament representing it, something like a globe for creation; a whale for Jonah; or a boat for Noah.

• Collect ornaments.

—A very special friend gave me an ornament last year, it is beautiful! I left it out all year along with my manager scene, a visual for every day of the love Jesus has for me and you!

• Create traditions with friends or family or both

—Well this year has made it difficult to be together but new traditions can be created. Old ones can be slightly adjusted but most importantly is to remember the reason for the season and to simply live one another.

• Be a secret Santa to someone.

—Secret Santa can be done through the mail, send a card or note to someone, who knows you might just make their day.

Questions for Reflection:

• What do you think Jesus means by “becoming like children?

—Be trusting, open and honest.

• What childish activities do you enjoy at Advent season? If you don’t have any, do any of the suggestions listed above interest you?

—I am interested in doing the “Jesse Tree.”

• C.S.Lewis also write this, “Christ never meant that we were to remain children in intelligence: on the contrary. He told us to be not only ‘as harmless as doves’, but also ‘as wise as serpents’. He wants a child’s heart, but a grown-up’s head. He wants us to be simple, single-minded, affectionate, and teachable, as good children are; but He also wants every bit of intelligence we have to be alert at its job, and in first-class fighting trim.” What are some ways to balance a “child’s heart” and a “grown up’s head?” *https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/cs-lewis-daily/1772/11/15

—Be kind, treat others as you want to be treated, share, be fair.

Do you think Lewis succeeds in balancing the two in the book, “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe?” Why or why not?

—Short answer, YES…I love the writings of C.S.Lewis and the imagery that spins in my imagination!

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

https://www.merriam-webster.com/

http://www.cslewisinstitute.org/Using_Your_Head

http://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/matthew/18.html

https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/cs-lewis-daily/1772/11/15

Sunday, December 6th, 2020

Hello my dear friends—

Happy Christmas and Merry Holiday! Wishing you a beautiful Sunday!

Mark 9:24b

“…I believe; help my unbelief!” ~

Today our story follows along in the book with chapter 5 of, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

I have been a fan of C.S.Lewis’ writings for quite some time, I love his ability to use words to transport people (me) to new and exciting places. I love the imagery one can conjure up by using imagination. Long before movies or affordable travel, people were traveling, by reading a book! Great authors have the ability to take their readers on amazing adventure to new countries and even to outer space! It sometimes boggles my mind at the faith and belief people put into science fiction books & movies but they wrestle or worse, deny the possibilities of the stories in the Bible. Some simply cannot grasp the idea that a baby was born of a virgin and some of those very people have absolutely no problem whatsoever believing in a groundhog named “Punxsutawney Phil” who nonetheless predicts the weather? Then there’s believing in the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus; I am certainly not trying to diss “Peter Rabbit” or “Kris Kringle,” they were both huge in my beloved childhood. What I am saying is, our imaginations are gifts from our Creator! I more often than not, find it quite easy to see Christian themes and enormous faith in many movie and television productions I’ve watched, one of my very favorites is “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” it is filled with imagery and storylines to encourage the belief in someone bigger and more powerful than ourselves. Check it out the two clips below!

Here’s another clip, the audio is poor but the context is good.

In the story of “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe,” we find that Edmund has now ventured through the wardrobe by following Lucy. Lucy is so excited about what she discovers while in Narnia she can hardly wait to share her news with her two older siblings, Susan and Peter. They had become quite concerned that Lucy was going crazy or worse she was loosing her faculties. Against Peter’s wishes, Susan shares their concern with the Professor, the owner of the home they are staying with in the countryside. They were not prepared for the response they received. The Professor, simply ask “why do you not believe her?” Little did they know, the Professor knew that Lucy was telling the truth, because he, himself had been to Narnia. (The Magician’s Nephew). The Professor may have said this out loud or maybe thought it to himself, “why are Susan and Peter attached to such a narrow definition of reality? I love that phrase, “narrow definition of reality.” *To constrict ones ability to accept other means of defining something or someone or someplace, my thoughts not scientifically verified. In truth, stating that my reality is different from yours and well, different from every one else’s. We are all unique individuals, with individuals brains and all living under different circumstances and with different life choices. Sure, we share many traits and even perform the same jobs, go to the same churches, schools, clubs…etc., but have all had different experiences that have shaped us and formed within us certain ideas of life and who we are or hope to be. I may make the same amount of money as a coworker but we have different needs and responsibilities in which we spend and use the money. So what might be an abundance to one may not be to the other. Trust and faith are essential in life.

It’s easy to believe in the possible, and it’s actually quite boring. Challenge yourself and believe in the impossible. Make the unreal, a realistic reality.

I love the Bible verse written by Paul in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” 

Advent and Christmas both are seasons of imagination and wonder, I challenge you to dive in and experience all it has to offer. God was born among us to make what seems ordinary into holy and transformative things. Things that can sound strange or even a bit crazy…a virgin birth, visiting angels, shepherds and magi following a star to a dark, cold and damp stable to see a baby wrapped in rags. Use your gift of imagination and enter into God’s reality and experience the Christmas season not as a silly, childish distraction but as a radical new perspective on faith and the kingdom of God.

Below is a screenshot of a website I subscribe to and find it to be very educational, not to mention insightful. It is a beautiful reminder of all the gifts God has given to us, specifically our hearts and our minds. It is within our hearts and minds we can be transformed into the individuals God created us to be.

Questions for Reflection:

• Which of the Pevensie children are you most like? Peter, Susan, Edmund or Lucy.

—I would have to say I’m a little of Lucy and a little of Edmund.

• Are you comfortable with the similarities?

—I appreciate seeing myself in both and I want to be more like Lucy.

• Would you prefer to emulate one of the other children.

—Lucy

• Does the season of Advent strain your sense of reason?

—No for me, I believe that anything is possible with God. *My doubts fall on myself and my ability to be faithful and committed.

• How is your imagination fed during Advent?

—Through the music, children and gifts of giving and receiving.

• How is your faith affected at Advent through your imagination?

—The manager scene and the Star! It feels like I’m hearing the story for the first time each year. Oh, and Christmas lights, decorations, singing Christmas songs, watching Christmas movies…🎄🎁

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

http://www.biblegateway.com/

https://mailchi.mp/abbeyofthearts/daily-nourishment-from-abbey-of-the-arts-may2-2230208?e=128ba1455f

Saturday, December 5th, 2020

Today marks the beginning of week two in the book, “Advent in Narnia.” So far we have made it through the first four chapters of C.S.Lewis’ book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” and we have referenced the chapters in chronological order; however, today we will be revisiting chapters 1 and 2.

Jeremiah 1:6-8

Hello friends-

I hope you are enjoying the story lines from the novel, “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” and our verses from the “Bible” as much as I have had in writing about them. Today our story takes us back to chapters 1-2 of the novel and takes us on the journey of Lucy walking through the wardrobe and meeting Mr. Tumnus. We have learned many characteristics about Lucy and the kind of girl she is. She is adventurous, as evidenced by exploring the house and entering a room with only a wardrobe in it. Her curiosity is heightened as she opens the doors of the wardrobe and it’s filled with clothing, mostly furs and long coats. I imagine Lucy due to her age must have been short and perhaps even had to reach up to the coats as she peeks her head in the wardrobe. She was hoping to find a hiding place from her siblings in a game they were playing. Lucy displays bravery as she forges ahead further and further into the wardrobe with the coats dangling in front and above her. Lucy is quite inquisitive and when she experiences a strange sensation under her feet she was not all frightened, but eager to discover what it might be. Lucy, begins to notice that she is no longer shuffling past the furs and coats and that the wooden floor of the wardrobe has changed underfoot. She looks below at her feet only to discover snow! She turns and lifts her gaze to find herself surrounded by snow as if in a winter wonderland. Lucy sees through the trees and pines a lamppost shining brightly. As Lucy approaches the lamppost she hears a strange noise and encounters an oddly dressed person who appears to be part animal or something. The stranger is startled at Lucy and drops all the items he was carrying. It was with great hesitation, the stranger steps forward as Lucy is picking up his things and starts a conversation with him. Finally, the stranger introduces himself to Lucy, as Mr. Tumnus. This exchange was very brave of Lucy, very brave indeed!

This all reminds me of the pure curious spirit and resilience of children. In the scripture reading for today, we read about God calling Jeremiah to serve as His prophet. He shows us a different side of children’s pureness in personalities, perhaps Jeremiah was shy or lacking confidence. A much different perspective than what we know and have read about Lucy. *Reference listed below provides some insights to Jeremiah’s age at his calling. He may have been between the ages of 14-17, considerably much older than Lucy.

As our story of Advent in Narnia unfolds, we will undoubtedly come across more adventurous tales of Lucy and her siblings. I look forward to joining them on these adventures and observing more Lucy’s sense of wonder, trust and bravery. She has an inspiring spirit, a heart that is confident, kind and brave, not to mention a keen sense of wonderment, and her willingness to walk through doorways to the unknown.

Questions for Reflection:

• How has God helped you face a call or experience you didn’t feel ready for?

—I was called to a leadership role within my church and I was reluctant to answer that call. I thought that by being in a leadership position I would not be feed spiritually, at least in the manner I was used to and liked. I was so wrong!!

• How did that call or experience affect your life?

—Answering the call to be an active leader within my church blessed me beyond an expectations or fears. My heart is overflowing with the joy I receive through this and other experiences. I am spiritually feed in many more ways than I ever imagined.

• What about the Advent season most arouses your sense of wonder?

—It feels like I’m hearing the nativity story for the first time, each time. I keep a nativity in my living room year around because of the wonderment of God and precious gift given to the (me) and the world through a baby, God’s beloved, Jesus!

• What does that wonder lead you to want to explore?

—I am seeking to live into the life God created me for. Eager and curious to learn more and to read more and to be in more conversations that further the Kingdom of God.

• Are any “wardrobe doors” catching your attention right now?

—Definitely! How about you?

~Peace~Charlotte

References:

http://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/commentaries/jeremiah/1-6.htm

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jeremiah-Hebrew-prophet

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2020

Matthew 3:1-6

Hello friends—

I do apologize for the late posting of today’s Advent in Narnia. Seems like I’ve come down with a “bug” or COVID-19. I was tested and hopefully it was just a precaution. So, keep the presses moving and on with our story…today we talk about REPENTANCE. The scripture passage from the Gospel of Matthew tells us the story of John the Baptist. John is preaching to the people about the repenting of one’s sins and receiving baptism by water. He tells the people of one who is coming that will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. The person is Jesus. In Narnia, we have read about Lucy and Mr. Tumnus, his evil plan to kidnap her and turn her over to the White Witch. Feeling of guilt overwhelmed Mr. Tumnus and he confesses to Lucy and decides that her kindness and extension of friendship towards him is reason enough to REPENT!

The companion reading is Chapter 2 of “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.”

Who knows how long Mr. Tumnus has been waiting in anticipation of meeting a human and was prepared, he thought to kidnap and turn over them over to the White Witch. He quickly realizes in his heart to do so, would be wrong—he had not anticipated the kindness of Lucy. Doing what’s right is sometimes the bravest act we can do. Mr. Tumnus must have felt relived after he told Lucy the truth and repented, it also must have been very freeing. Repenting of our mistakes and sins to God is freeing, this is also true when we seek forgiveness from individuals we have wronged. I have experienced that freeing feeling of forgiveness and it feels like a weight is literally being lifted right off your shoulders. When we carry unnecessary burdens, guilt and shame it causes much hardship and agonizing pain. That pain often goes beyond just ourselves, it has a cascading effect on all of our relationships and as a result we often push God away. It is the “sin” that separates us from God and only through sincere repentance can the relationship be healed. When I have been in the midst of these experiences I know God is still with me but my guilt distracts me and I feel like I need to keep God at a distance. Selfishly thinking I can fix or hide whatever “it” is from God. How very foolish of me, I am hurting myself and God with my stubbornness.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines REPENTANCE:

• to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one’s life. 

Advent is a season of preparation, anticipation and waiting. We learn from the story that Mr. Tumnus had previously made an agreement with the White Witch that if he ever encountered a human child, he would hand them over to her. As the story progresses, we learn that Mr. Tumnus decides to place himself in danger by not reporting Lucy and seeks forgiveness from Lucy for wanting to cause her harm. 

During the next four weeks we will be preparing our hearts for Jesus’ birth through Hope-Peace-Joy-Love.

Some interesting correlations between John the Baptist and Mr. Tumnus: they were both hairy, wild men who lived in times of conflicts, oppression, and in need of a savior. In the book, Advent in Narnia is is described as being on or near the border of two kingdoms. Mr. Tumnus met Lucy at the border between Narnia and the Wardrobe. The people of Judea traveled to meet John at the Jordan River. John, too stood at the border between what has been/what is to comes, the Kingdom of God, through Jesus Christ. The People in the surrounding towns and villages come to the Jordan to confess their sins and to be baptized by John. This was their preparation and anticipation of the coming of Jesus, though at the time they did not fully know what that meant. The same feelings erupt when individuals realize who God is and accept Jesus as the Son of God, repent and follow Him!

Advent is a “borderland” season, the closing of one year and season and stepping into a new year. We are waiting for the birth of Jesus that we celebrate on Christmas Day and the Coming of Christ to take us home.

Questions for Reflection:

• Does Advent feel like a strange time of the year to ask for forgiveness? Why or why not?

• What ways might you pursue repentance and forgiveness in your life? A few suggestions offered are to write a letter to God; reach out to someone you have been estranged with; talk with a spiritual leader; or perhaps consider a rite of reconciliation.

Tomorrow’s companion reading is chapter 4 of “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.” 

~Peace & Hope~Charlotte

References:

orthodoxyforeveryone.com

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.merriam-webster.com/

https://www.shmoop.com/lion-witch-wardrobe/