My son is 6 years old. For the past month or so, I have been reading the Narnia chronicles to him and his 9 year old sister each night. This is a task I have eagerly looked forward to. I believe that Lewis, in the story of Aslan, captures an image of Christ that doctrine and theology have a hard time conveying. The Narnia Chronicles touch me deeply each time I read them.How would my children react to them? It has been everything I could have hoped for and more. They laugh, they clap their hands, they jump up and down in excitement. They eagerly await each evening when we will read another 2 chapters.
Tonight we finished the last two chapters of The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Both of my children have become very attached to the character of Reepicheep in the past two books. They were thrilled when they discovered that he was going to be with Edmund and Lucy on the Dawn Treader.
My son Jacob holds things close to his heart. He feels strongly the hurts and joys of those around him.
At the end of the book, Reepicheep finally parts from Edmund and Lucy to go on to Aslan's Country alone. Before Reepicheep goes, he casts off his sword saying, "I will need it no longer." He then rides his coracle up the wave where he finally tips over the crest and vanishes from sight.
With that, my son gave a deep sigh and walked directly upstairs and wept.
I gave him a moment and then we all went up to console him. I was so proud of him. I love that he feels for worthy things so deeply.
After a few minutes, Jacob was ready to finish the last few pages. He smiled and clapped at the end.
"Daddy, do we start the next book tomorrow?"
Yes son, we do....
5 comments:
That's awesome.
Beautiful! Your description reminds me of me and my son about 26 years ago. I wrote you in March saying how much I enjoy and am often challenged by your blog. Thanks again so much.
Blessings,
Sherry - Berkeley CA
That is wonderful!
Great story - within a story. It does go to show even parents look for their children's approval (and in this case - you got it!). I loved the story - makes me want to have children.
Reading Chronicles to my son when we were living in China is one of the greater joys and memories of parenting I have had. Thanks for bringing back the memories (my son just walked by and pointed out it was more than 9 years ago).
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