“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
What happens when innocence is lost? Like a fresh new flower, ripped from the plant, first we wilt, then harden, then we crumble and are blown away.
I love movies, especially children’s movies. One of my favorite is Peter Pan, the version where Robin Williams plays Peter. At the beginning of the movie, he doesn’t realize that he’s Peter. He’s lost his innocence. He’d lost touch with what things in life are truly important. He believes the tale of Peter Pan is something made up and passed down in stories from generation to generation.
Movies, as they are, overlook the logical (that’s what I love about them) and Robin Williams ends up in Neverland with the Lost Boys. The Lost Boys try desperately to convince him of who he is and teach him how to be a child again. Everything in Neverland is completely dependent upon imagination. They wouldn’t even have food, drink or sustenance without a good, active imagination.
The Lost Boys are finally successful at helping Peter find his innocence again and let go of the stresses and frustrations of schedules, bills and responsibilities of the real world. At one point in the movie, one of the Lost Boys walks up to Robin Williams, looks deep into his eyes and says, “Oh, there you are Peter.” A revelation of innocence returned.
This sequence always reminds me of my Christian faith. So many times we’re caught up in the stress and frustrations of schedules and appointments and trying to please so many in so little time, that we loose the miracle and the innocence of working in ministry. Our innocence is dependent upon our faith. Sometimes we allow the enemy to convince us that by striving we work the good work, when in fact, it is by faith and the leading of the Holy Spirit that we accomplish everything that God has called us to do; without the loss of innocence.
I look hopefully to the time when I can casually enjoy all of those around me, without worrying about where I should be, lest I fall behind (again!!). I look forward to the day when I will be filled with faith to the point of complete peace and serenity. When someone, perhaps a child, will look deep into my eyes and say, “Oh, there you are Jesus.” When the Jesus in me will shine past my many earthly flaws.
Jesus, may I always hear and obey your voice. That the innocence, birthed in faith, will always be the most obvious attribute in my life.
** Moments With The Master
By Linda J. Humes
Written 7/16/2000
Linda J. Humes 