Star Wars: The Last Jedi was released today on DVD and blue ray. While it is by no means a filmmaking masterpiece, Star Wars geeks like me will gladly add Episode VIII to our media libraries and watch it countless times. I enjoy everything Star Wars. It’s entertaining; and, yes, I can quote lines from the movies.
I can’t pinpoint the real appeal this movie saga has for me; however, I do love the similarities between Christianity and The Force. Now for the disclaimer: I am in no way suggesting these movies are Christian. That’s too New Age for me, and not even possible. The Star Wars “force”lacks a crucial element of Christianity-Jesus Christ, and the ultimate sacrifice he made for our salvation. He is the cornerstone of our faith, and no fabricated brand of spirituality can compete. The Star Wars “force,” according to its creator, is an energy field that surrounds us, made up of all living things. My Force: God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
One of my favorite Star Wars scenes is near the end of Episode IV: A New Hope. Luke Skywalker is engaged in the final battle with imperial TIE fighters and the evil Empire on their Death Star space station, armed with a planet-destroying superweapon. After Luke fires once and misses, a post-life Obi-Wan Kenobi telepathically encourages him to use the power of the force, rather than rely on the navigation system in his X-wing fighter jet. Luke holds his breath, closes his eyes, and turns the switch off. He then blindly hits the target and victoriously destroys the Death Star! It is at this moment that Luke first realizes the power of “the force.” As this episode ends, he sets out to find Master Yoda and learn more about this mysterious power (cue the sequel).
Now, I am not such a huge Star Wars fanatic that would I rely on the movie franchise to replace or even supplement my belief system. When life becomes difficult for me and I feel embroiled in battle, I look to God as my sole source of strength. I engage him with the power of his force: Prayer. I trust God to work on my behalf. My Bible – the one with Christ’s words in red – is more valuable than any Jedi Master. It is my wellspring for spiritual encouragement and my guide to learn more about the love and power of Jesus Christ. Star Wars, on the contrary, is merely a story by George Lucas, scripted for fun. If it helps people ponder the force of Christianity, I think that would be an incredibly good thing.
Romans 10:17 So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.
II Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.