One Good Thing Every Day: January 10, 2014
"We're following a guide we know nothing about. How do we know which side the bird is on?" From The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, as quoted in A Year with Aslan
Edmund, following Robin with his siblings to find Mr. Tumnus, voices his doubts about their guide flitting from tree to tree in a frozen fantasy land. He is still trying to comprehend how a beaver can talk and has already tasted the Queen's Turkish Delight. The familiar comfort of sweet indulgence and the promise of potential power have clouded his vision. He is suspicious of everyone, even his brother and sisters whom he knows so well. Why not doubt an unknown bird in a strange land?
I don't blame Edmund for his doubt anymore than I admonish Lucy for her trust in Robin. Lucy already believes in the magic of Narnia, and Edmund has the furthest to go toward believing. Although neither have met Aslan, they sense Him. Lucy searches eagerly. Edmund clings to skepticism.
Perhaps Edmund's concerns are not unfounded. It is important to watch for wolves among sheep. Robin is, after all, leading them to the wolves who guard the Queen's statuary including a friendly, but fallen, Faun.
But, better to be Lucy--even courageous Peter and cautious Susan--who walks by faith, who enters wardrobes and discovers her destined purpose, who seeks the One guiding them from the beginning.
"The jungle is thick, and you cannot clearly see what is before you, behind you, or beside you. Cling to My hand as you follow this trail in shadowy darkness. Although you cannot see Me, My Presence with you is rock-solid reality. Find hope in Me, beloved, for I am taking care of you." From Sarah Young's Jesus Today
Who is among you that fears the Lord, That obeys the voice of His servant, That walks in darkness and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God.
Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him For the help of His presence.
But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me.