Aslan, Lucy and my love of lions.

I love The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis (– and it can probably be expected that more than one blog post will follow with reference to these books…). It would be safe to say that they have been some of my favourite books since I was a child and probably the main reason these books impacted me so much, (as well as the amazing storyline and existing ability to totally pull me into a different world) is because of ASLAN. He was not just any lion, and instead is central to the plot of these books- depicted as a wise and benevolent guide to the children but also as the powerful King of the Beasts, and one who brings life and victory through self-sacrifice. Although Aslan the lion can be read solely as a character in a book, it is difficult to deny the obvious parallels which Lewis spoke of: that Aslan is representative of Jesus. With this in mind, the writings of the Narnia books have so much more depth and power behind them, as they now speak both of the ultimate sacrifice made by God in the heart-wrenching crucifixion of His only son, and the following glorious resurrection which triumphed over any powers of death, leading to the definitive victory of life over death, light over darkness, and love over all.

I absolutely love lions, Aslan being part of this. One of my favourite dreams of all time which God gave me one night, involved me riding on the back of a lion, something which I think I’ll remember forever. Images of lions have been used throughout history, appearing in cultures across the world and they feature so much in the Bible – thinking first to the Lion of Judah!  But, in carrying so much power, royalty and bravery, I think that this is more than mere symbolism. Lions are Kings. Aslan is King. Jesus is King.

Especially as my relationship with God grew and as I fell more in love with Jesus, each time I read these books I found that I loved Aslan more and more. Something that especially moved me was the relationship between Lucy and Aslan. She was always the closest to Aslan, and saw him first. If I was one character in these books, I would be Lucy. She was the youngest, but had so much authority- a fierce warrior known to ride into battle in times of need. This is testimony to the fact that, though the world sees individuals by its own standards, by God’s standards we are so much greater and gifted with so much more. The fact that she was the most faithful of the four children, and never stopped believing in Narnia - from the beginning when she was accused of lying about discovering Narnia, and when back in England, always longing to be back in Narnia in the presence of Aslan- I think makes it more amazing that she is one who gets to remain in Narnia forever at the end of the books.

The closest relationship possible, with an almighty God, providing guidance, strength and so much love. A promised destiny greater than anything the world believes possible for us, or can offer. Adventure and the promise of eternity. What else could we ask for? So look to the Lion of Judah, hear him roar and witness the power and love of the KING.