by Kala Loptien

He Initiates

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No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. John 6:44 NKJV

As a child, I was introduced to the enchanting world of Narnia. C.S. Lewis had me mesmerized. I loved the books (and the movies). I recently decided to reread the series. I remembered an indescribable fondness for one character in particular. It was a feeling I felt again when Aslan the Lion entered the scene. His presence, strength, character, compassion, love and sacrifice elicit an emotional response in readers because He parallels Christ. In fact, Aslan speaks a line in The Silver Chair that nearly mimics what Jesus told his disciples (and us). “You would  not have called to me unless I had called to you,” said the Lion.

As I make my way through Narnia, studying the brilliant theological undertones, I can’t help but consider the question we as Christians tend to wrestle with. Who initiates? Who does the pursuing? This is a much larger discussion of course; but for now, here are a few things from God’s word that we know to be true.

1.) Adam and Eve did not pursue God. In fact, they sinned against God. Then, they ran from Him, ashamed and aware of their condition.

2.) God continues to pursue his children in their darkest hours and deepest sin. We see that throughout the Bible and within our own testimonies. We were all born sinful and fall short. We are all in need of a Savior.

3.) Jesus tells us (quite plainly) that no one comes to him unless God the Father draws them. He goes on to tell several parables of God’s loving pursuit.

And His ultimate quest? He loved the world so much, He sent His son to live a perfect life and then suffer death on a cross in order to reconcile us to Himself. We love because He first loved us. He is the initiator. And our response? Perhaps emotional when we recognize His presence and pursuit. Our hearts turn to worship and we live our life worthy of the calling. Glory to God!

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado