As I am working on the literature guide for
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C.S. Lewis, I am struck again by his great skill in being able to take the truths of the Gospel and paint a word picture that communicates this truth on a level that a child can readily understand. I have just worked on the chapters in which Eustace, who has behaved horribly during the course of the adventure, has been turned into a dragon. While in the dragon's skin he experiences true repentance. It is at this juncture that the great lion Aslan appears to him, bidding Eustace to follow. Aslan leads Eustace to a pool of water and instructs him to undress. Eustace is confused at first, wondering how he can undress when he is wearing no clothing. He finally realizes dragons are probably like snakes and can shed their skins. However, after three attempts to rid himself of the skin by his own efforts have failed, he finds he must submit to the great lion who removes the skin for him. It is very painful, but Eustace is relieved when the skin is finally gone. Aslan throws him into the pool, then clothes him in new clothing when he emerges.
What better illustration of Ephesians 2:8-10? Eustace was not able to be saved through his own efforts. Only Aslan was able to save him. It is also a perfect illustration of 2 Cor. 5:17. Eustace truly became a new creation. The old Eustace passed away and Eustace was born anew. Of course, the picture of Aslan clothing Eustace is a fulfillment of Scripture such as Isa 61:10, Rev. 3:5, and Rev. 7:9.
What child doesn't enjoy reading about dragons, a fierce lion and an adventure at sea? Yet wrapped up in all of these things are the truth of God's Word.
Each literature guide I write is an adventure for me, and I hope that those who use them find that same sense of adventure as they teach their children the truths within the novels.
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.
