Yesterday, May the Fourth, was unofficially Star Wars Day. Naturally, we watched an episode of Star Wars. The Empire Strikes Back: Episode V is ranked first in the hierarchy of the franchise. In this episode, Luke Skywalker travels to Dagobah to commence his Jedi training with Master Yoda and learn more about the power of the force.
As Yoda mentors young Skywalker, he strongly warns against the evil dark side of the force: “But beware of the dark side. Anger, fear, aggression; the dark side of the Force are they. Easily they flow, quick to join you in a fight. If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will.” Yoda is preparing him to survive an encounter with the dark side. I’ve seen this movie countless times, however, this warning about being seduced into the darkness kept lingering in my mind. Today’s world is filled with news reports of some incredibly angry people, consumed by hatred.
What does it say about a society when a young teenage girl is viciously attacked for her choice of a prom dress? This poor child (yes child) was out having fun with her friends, and I don’t believe meant anyone harm. She simply posted a picture of her and her prom date to social media and the haters began to brutally shower her with their venom. She was labeled “racist” by complete strangers who didn’t even know her. I doubt they cared to since the battle is what they seem to enjoy. As Yoda would say, “Anger, fear, aggression…quick to join a fight.” This is merely one example of a societal trend that is puzzling, even worse, troubling, and frightening. The response to judgment is swift, and the desire to obliterate the perceived opposition is fierce and cruel.
I remember going through a phase in high school when my friends and I began wearing farmer’s overalls. Actual men’s denim overalls picked off the shelves of my grandpa’s general store, right next to the seedbox. Did we offend any of the farmers around town by wearing them? I highly doubt it. If anything, they most likely shook their heads and said, “Those goofy girls.” Or rolled their eyes to the tune of “teenagers.” That was a vastly different time when people “let kids be kids,” as long as they weren’t breaking any laws.
As Christians, we are taught to love and encourage one another, to turn the other cheek, and are often warned about the power of the tongue. James writes in 3:5-6: “The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue is also fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.” Sometimes I feel as if this world is on fire. There is an intense rage within some people. A bitterness that reflects the very essence of the dark side. My prayers are constant for us, as a nation and a world, to have peace with one another.
In Episode V, Luke faces an internal struggle between the lure of the dark side and the light of the force. After learning the true fate of his father, Luke is tempted multiple times and even enticed to join forces “to rule the universe as Father and Son.” Fortunately, Luke remains confident it is 
good in his father. Yes, I know it’s merely a story; yet, the spiritual battle we face, as believers, has become more evident. The conflicting sides are becoming more distinct.
I pray to see the Light alive in our world. I know Christ is moving to illuminate the darkness. To bring peace where there is aggression, love where there is hate, and a sense of calm when fear begins to creep into our hearts. Remember, God is ultimately in control; the outcome has already been decided. Choose your side wisely. Pray for peace and restoration.
Romans 15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.