Aslan Is On The Move ∙∙

Aslan Is On The Move ∙∙

The sign that the Son of Man is coming will appear in the heavens, and there will be deep mourning among all the peoples of the earth. And they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. – Matthew 24:30

Luke 2:10-11

 10 Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;

 11 for today in the city of David, there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

The Winter of Narnia: A World Without Christ

In C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, the land of Narnia is depicted as a once-beautiful place now trapped under the spell of the evil White Witch. Her enchantment has plunged Narnia into a perpetual state of frigid Winter, where the sun never shines, Spring never arrives, and Christmas never happens. What a tragedy! Mr. Tumnus, a faun in the story, grimly remarks, “It is winter in Narnia and has been for ever so long . . . Always winter, but never Christmas.”

This haunting description illustrates a world ruled by evil, symbolizing Earth under Satan’s control, the god of this world. The White Witch symbolizes the devil, and the phrase “Always winter but never Christmas” evokes a sense of despair, hopelessness, and the lack of joy.

Without the first Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ, the world would stay in a state of spiritual winter, deprived of the loving, powerful, and transformative presence of the Lord.

Could you imagine living in such an unbearable state, a world stuck in endless cold and darkness, facing winter’s harsh conditions without ever having Christmas to look forward to?

A Modern-Day Miracle: Lions as Protectors

In June 2005, a remarkable story drew worldwide attention. A 12-year-old Ethiopian girl was abducted by men attempting to force her into marriage. News of her kidnapping spread quickly, sparking a search. About a week later, police found her, but her captors had fled. Remarkably, a pride of three lions was guarding her. These lions had reportedly chased off her kidnappers and remained with her until authorities arrived.

Police Sgt. Wondimu Wedajo commented, “They stood guard until we found her, and then they just left her like a gift and went back into the forest.” The girl recounted that her captors had mistreated her, but the lions had not harmed her. An Ethiopian wildlife expert speculated that the lions might have spared her because her cries sounded like a lion cub’s mews. Many believed a miracle had happened.

The Associated Press headline read: Lions Save African Girl from Abductors.

While some big cat experts doubted the story’s credibility, pointing out that lions are not known for their gentleness or protective, shepherding inclinations toward humans, the event remains extraordinary. Lions, as apex predators, can easily distinguish between a fellow furry creature and a human child. Yet, in this instance, they acted as protectors.

This incredible story echoes the biblical account of Daniel in the Lions’ Den. In Daniel 6:22, it is written, “My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight.” Just as God tamed the lions to protect Daniel, is it possible that He intervened in this modern-day event to shield the young girl?

The Lion of Judah: A Source of Hope

The image of lions as protectors recalls the title of Jesus Christ as the Lion of Judah. During the darkest moments and coldest seasons in life, the Lion of Judah is on the move, bringing hope, protection, and restoration. Just as Aslan in Narnia symbolizes Christ by breaking winter’s spell, Jesus brings light and life to a world overshadowed by spiritual darkness.

Revelation 5:5 declares, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed.” This verse reminds us of Christ’s victory over sin and death, bringing hope to everyone who trusts in Him.

REFLECT & PRAY

The title “Lion of Judah” embodies strength, authority, and protection. The Lord Jesus Christ, the Lion of Judah, is a mighty king and a compassionate protector of His people.

Father, thank You for sending the Lion of Judah, the Lord Jesus Christ, to safeguard and watch over us. In our darkest moments, remind us of His power and presence. Fill us with hope by the truth that He is constantly moving, bringing light and hope into our lives.

INSIGHT

Aslan on the Move: A Symbol of Redemption

“They say Aslan is on the move; perhaps he has already landed.” This critical line from C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe highlights the hope and transformation that Aslan, the Christ-like figure, brings to Narnia. Aslan’s movement signifies the breaking of the White Witch’s oppressive spell, which had cast the land into a perpetual winter. The rising temperatures and melting ice represent a turning point, signaling the defeat of the White Witch and the upcoming redemption of Narnia. Confident assurance in a positive outcome is finally at hand.

Aslan: The Rightful King of Narnia

In Lewis’s story, Aslan is depicted as a majestic lion who talks like the other animals of Narnia. He is the rightful king, returning to reclaim His throne and restore order to the land. This allegorical tale foreshadows the Lord Jesus Christ’s prophesied return, when He will one day take His Davidic throne and reign as King. The promised kingdom of God is arriving on Earth, bringing justice, peace, and righteousness.

The Power of Aslan’s Name

When the announcement that “Aslan is on the move” was made, it triggered a profound reaction among the children in the story. Lewis writes, “And now a very curious thing happened. None of the children knew who Aslan was any more than you do, but the moment the Beaver had spoken these words, everyone felt quite different . . .. At the mention of Aslan, each child felt something jump inside. Edmund felt a sensation of mysterious horror. Peter suddenly felt brave and adventurous. Susan felt as if some delicious smell or some delightful strain of music had just floated by her. And Lucy got the feeling you have when you wake up in the morning and realize that it is the beginning of the holidays or the beginning of summer.”

This description captures the power and majesty of Aslan’s name, which inspires feelings ranging from awe to joy. Likewise, the name of Jesus Christ holds deep significance, inspiring hope, courage, and reverence in those who believe in Him.

The Lion of Judah: A Biblical Promise

The Lord Jesus Christ is referred to as the Lion of Judah in Scripture, first mentioned in Jacob’s blessing of Judah in Genesis 49:8-12. This title emphasizes His strength, authority, and kingship. In Revelation 5:5, it is declared, “Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the heir to David’s throne, has won the victory.” This victory refers to Christ’s triumph over sin and death, achieved through His sacrificial death and resurrection.

The first coming of the Lord Jesus Christ brought salvation and redemption to the world. As stated in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” Through His sacrifice, Jesus made a way for humanity to be reconciled with God.

The Second Coming: A Reign of Peace and Righteousness

When the Lord Jesus Christ returns, He will usher in a new era of peace and righteousness. He will end all warfare and establish a kingdom where justice and tranquility reign supreme. According to Revelation 20:4, “They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.” This millennial reign will fulfill biblical prophecies about the end times and establish God’s promised kingdom on Earth.

The Compassionate Shepherd and Guardian

In His second coming, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lion of Judah, will come with majesty and power to protect and shepherd His people. As the compassionate Shepherd and Guardian of souls, He will gather His flock and guide them with understanding and tenderness. 1 Peter 2:25 states, “For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.” His steadfast strength will ensure the safety and well-being of His children, bringing enduring peace and joy to those who enter His kingdom.

The Good Shepherd’s Sacrificial Love

The Lord Jesus Christ is not only the Lion of Judah but also the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. In John 10:11, He declares, “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” His sacrificial love is further emphasized in John 10:17-18, where He says, “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”

Brady Tarr sagaciously declared, “The nails did not hold Jesus Christ on the cross; love did.” This profound truth highlights the depth of Christ’s love for humanity. His voluntary sacrifice demonstrates His unwavering commitment to redeeming and protecting His people.

The Kingdom of God: A Promise Fulfilled

The return of the Lord Jesus Christ will fulfill God’s promises, establishing a kingdom of hope, peace, and joy. As the Lion of Judah and the Good Shepherd, He will reign with justice and compassion, ensuring the safety and well-being of His people. This extraordinary event will mark the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, bringing eternal peace and joy to all who trust in Him.

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© Dr. H 2024