During my childhood, Sonic the Hedgehog challenged me on the issue of where my confidence rested.
During college, Timmy Turner of “The Fairly OddParents” showed me that not everything you wish and desire for your life is necessarily beneficial.
During my late 20’s, Dipper Pines of “Gravity Falls” challenged me on the topic of Manhood.
And during my early 30’s, Ed Elric of “Fullmetal Alchemist” showed me what happens when you try to play the role of God in certain areas of your life.
Each character and each series played a role in making me question deeply certain areas of my own life especially as it relates to my own Christian walk and my relationship with Jesus Christ.
A Discussion That Turns Into Discovery
The characters I mentioned were certainly not the ones with the last word on the topics that hit home with me. And of course they wouldn’t be.
They simply helped start a conversation that then led me into a full—on personal Bible study and devotion.
The episode “Dipper vs. Manliness” on Disney Channel’s original series, “Gravity Falls,” hit me so hard that it reminded me of the very same discussion that I had with an older gentlemen whom I used to work with and is now my best friend and mentor. A few weeks later, I was in the middle of a personal study on what the Bible describes a man to be.
And that’s just one experience!
Paying Attention
I’m often amazed in how far God goes to get my attention. Granted, I have to do my part and I do my best daily to do so, from prayer to my personal devotional time.
But, when God wants our attention and does it by going all “Breaking News” on our life, it is quite fascinating. At the moment, it may not feel like it, but I’m honestly grateful that He does this.
He loves us that much! After all, He sent His son Jesus. He is the ultimate gift that deserves our undivided attention.
Have you had ‘unlikely’ faith conversations started like this, too?
Eric Dye says
The most recent thing that comes to my mind is at the end of the game, Bastion. It’s a powerful scene after the player has to make a big decision. It was so moving and really spoke to my heart. 🙂
Kendall Lyons says
AWESOME illustration from “Bastion.” Thanks for sharing good brother!