THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

A glimpse into the Star Wars goings on in my house.

How many times in the last few weeks have you asked someone, been asked by someone, or overheard someone asking, “Have you seen the new Star Wars movie?”
 
The original Star Wars, Episode 4, was the first movie I remember seeing in a movie theatre. I was in elementary school. And it was big and exciting and electrifying. As a girl who grew up with the record-breaking, crowd-drawing characters of Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Luke Skywalker, I felt compelled to go see The Force Awakens. Also I have two boys. Three, when you count my husband.
 
The movie didn’t disappoint. And the thing that struck me most about The Force Awakens wasn’t any of the action scenes, or the way old characters were integrated with new, or the special effects, but the evolution of a hodgepodge of apparent misfits into their true beautiful selves

Han Solo, Rey, and Finn all beautiful when they tap into who they truly are.

Finn He’s a Stormtrooper. What could be more hated, despised, or disliked by our beloved Resistance characters and fans? Who would think he is valued? But when we look behind the mask Finn wears, we find a sensitive young man, who despite his station in life, not only senses the difference between right and wrong, but is willing to risk his life to avoid being a part of what he instinctively knows is the latter. Is there a mask you’re wearing? Hiding your true self from shining through?
 
Rey A junk scavenging young woman, who appears to be orphaned and abandoned by those she loved. Definitely wouldn’t have a huge Instagram following (look at this rusty old cog wheel I scavenged today). But this beautiful girl is tough as nails, nimble, determined, and a brilliant pilot, plus so much more. Her stunning eyes and smile intensify and brighten as she discovers her self worth, what she’s made of, and what she’s made for. Are you scrounging around trying to get by, or are you seeking ways to utilize your talents and gifts?
 
Han Solo Come on, do you think this girl who grew up drooling over Harrison Ford could leave him out? He’s a smuggler. In this installment, he’s a senior citizen smuggler. But as in all the other Star Wars films, we find this corrupt bandit has a surprising understanding of the Force and one of the most loyal hearts in the galaxy, endearing him to audiences for decades. Not to mention that lopsided smile. Are you misunderstood? Are you stuck in a rut of bad habits or seizing opportunities to make a difference?

Maz, an unexpected treasure in The Force Awakens.

Maz. This bizarre looking alien, who Han Solo describes as, “Maz is a bit of an acquired taste, so let me do the talking and whatever you do, don't stare.” But despite her wrinkled face, thin lips and costume-like goggles; Maz has sweet, loveable expressions that remind me of E.T., wisdom reminiscent of Mrs. Who, and a fab collection of bracelets. She is the ultimate encourager; pivotal in helping others find their true reflections. Do you take time to truly see others for who they are? To share your valuable insights to help them see their potential?
 
Each of these characters originally appears evil, worthless, selfish, or plain weird to outsiders, to their entire galaxy, until they find their purpose, their calling. And when they do, their beautiful true reflections dazzle us all the way home from the theatre. We are being called too. You and me. As Maz says, “The Force it’s calling to you. Just let it in.” God is calling you. He’s calling me. He’s calling right now. All we have to do is let Him in. And when we do, we can shake our brutal, ugly, dirtied pasts, overcome our scars and weaknesses, stand strong against those who persecute us, and evolve into the beautiful heroes and heroines He’s always designed us to be.
 
So have you seen it? Who was your favorite character? I’d love to know. Just click on the “Read more”/”Comments” tab below.