Walking with God

Day 24:  Which TV or film character’s journey reminds you of your walk with God, and why?

• Ron Weasley, Harry Potter series
• Cousin Richie, The Bear
• Andrea Sachs, The Devil Wears Prada

Ron:  I just adore Ron.  In the beginning, he often feels overlooked and insecure among his talented family and famous friends.  He struggles with feeling unimportant or unseen (or undeserving when he is seen/chosen), but throughout the series, it becomes clear that he is the grounding force between Harry’s intensity and Hermione’s brilliance, the natural connector who makes their friendship trio work and gradually move from loyal friends to family.  His story reminds me that God often casts us in roles we do not recognize as vital while we’re in them.  Like being the supportive encourager, showing up faithfully, and bringing light into hard situations.

Richie:  Richie's transformation resonated with me more than I expected.  His character starts off insecure, overcompensating in obnoxious ways for the lack of real purpose in his own life.  The lightbulbs come on for him in the “Forks” episode (The Bear, S. 2, Ep. 7), among my very favorite episodes of any show.  Without changing his career description, his newfound sense of purpose and personal pride in serving others well and giving them a great, memorable experience changes EVERYTHING!  Every second counts.  When he says, “I think I’m the sand,” in season 3, that also hit me.  He found purpose in realizing he wasn’t the star of the show, but a vital behind-the-scenes connector who fills in the gaps, brings joy, and helps others shine and feel special.  I’ve felt God calling me into that same posture, finding purpose in being a steady anchor and connecting presence in the lives of my friends, family, and hopefully future clients and students!

Andrea:  Andi is an introverted writer determined to prove herself in a high-pressure job, and she gets lost and confused in the chaotic process.  Her journey is a good reminder that high achievement means nothing if it costs you your integrity, joy, or close relationships.  It's a rough comparison, but it came to mind here - as the idea of striving while losing sight of the end goal resonates for me, and so does her turning point of remembering her values and goals, finding a healthier balance, and reaching out to mend fences with people she hurt along the way. 

God is always at work, currently shaping my understanding that purpose is not found in the spotlight of being the most accomplished or most impressive, but in the subtle work of faithfully showing up, prioritizing strong connections, and helping others feel safe, seen, and supported! ❤

Having said all of that, the above characters represent things God is teaching me.  But a walk with God is a RELATIONSHIP, and the book & film relationship that best mirrors that for me is Harry and Dumbledore.

The story begins with Harry feeling a sense of awe and mystery as he meets Dumbledore.  Learned reverence mixed with a lot of deeper questions.  He shows an instinctive childlike trust that Dumbledore is wise and has his best interest at heart, even though he is slower than Harry would prefer to reveal the answers he wants.  Dumbledore sees something special in Harry that makes him want to grow and become better, and Harry is fiercely loyal and defends Dumbledore's reputation whenever anyone tries to question or diminish him.  "Dumbledore's man through and through."  In Order of the Phoenix, Dumbledore intentionally distances himself from Harry to protect him.  Naturally, Harry feels abandoned and hurt, all while battling mounting confusion, opposition, anger, and darkness in the world around him.  Yet the entire time, Dumbledore is fighting a larger battle on Harry’s behalf, shielding him from Voldemort’s influence and preparing Harry for a confrontation he doesn't fully understand yet.  He shows up powerfully to stand between Harry and the enemy when Harry needs him most, then he helps Harry process the worst grief and loss he has faced even as Harry is violently angry with him.  Toward the end of the series, Dumbledore becomes a closer mentor to Harry as they partner together in shared missions to learn about and confront their enemy.  There is a deep respect along with a growing sense of friendship, collaboration, and purpose.  In the end, Dumbledore sacrifices himself for the cause, and Harry and friends have to rally and use all they have learned from him to sort through the curious mysteries left behind and complete the vital mission he assigned to them.

And every. bit. of the above mirrors my walk with God. ❤

Okay then, good talk!  I maaaay have overthought this one. lol

Happy Monday, blog fam!  I love you and believe in you, and Jesus does too!!!

❤ ❤ ❤