A Biblical Lesson From "The Croods"

Okay, I have to admit we weren't going to watch The Croods after watching the preview. The thirty second promo did nothing for Ed, Mags, or myself yet the comments we heard at work or on Facebook were all positive. Since we had a coupon for a FREE on demand movie, we decided to watch it and if it was terrible...we weren't out anything but a little time together, and family time is good regardless of a movie's quality. It would be a good evening regardless. We didn't expect to laugh so much or stay up much later to watch it a second time.

Mags and I actually watched two more times on Saturday while Ed was at work we liked it so much. We have the rental for twenty-four hours so we're maximizing our time, I'm thinking this movie is going on the Christmas wish list. If you watched the movie then you know how fabulous this movie is but if you haven't seen it, let me share a couple valuable lessons I noticed. I'm not sure if these were intentional or God-Instances but either way, they only enhanced an already wonderful, enlightening, and fabulous movie.

Don't be Afraid of the Dark!

Without giving away the movie, in case you haven't seen it, one of the greatest obstacles the Crood family faces is one of fear. They don't go out at night or try new things because of their fear...a fear of the unknown.

Their daughter, Eve (Hmm...Eve? Bold, not following rules, and has to live with the consequences of her actions? Makes you think, right?

Anyway, Eve, is your typical teenager looking to find her way in the world and not wanting to conform to her parent's way of living. Her father tries to protect her. Her mother is the buffer between father/daughter. And Guy, the boy who steals her heart and introduces Eve to more than she imagined.

A life of...(not telling, watch the movie.) One of my favorite lines in the movie is spoken by Eve. When she explores and discovers new things she calls to her family, "You should see this!" They all run and watch with wide eyes as they absorb the beauty and miracles of life around them they never new existed.

This act reminds me of our Christian walk, we are called to share with others. To share the excitement of God's beauty, miracles, and provision in our lives. I pray we are as bold and excited to share our faith as Eve is to share the new creations discovered around each corner. She didn't hid in the dark but instead embraced change, creation, and the joy of discovery.

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"You should see this!"

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against
the schemes of the devil. To that end keep alert with all perseverance,
making supplication for all the saints, and also for me,
that words may be given to me in opening my mouth
boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,  
for which I am an ambassador in chains,
that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
Ephesians 6:10-11,18b-20

Stronger because of the trials...

Throughout the movie, the Croods travel towards the light and higher ground, for the mountain. The dad says, "I was busy keeping them alive." and Guy tells him, "That's what Dad's do." Our Heavenly Father, God, gave the ultimate gift to keep us alive. He sent His Only Son, Jesus and let Him die on the cross for our sins - my sins, and yours.

When life's trials come, may we be like the Croods and follow the Light and recognize we aren't in the battle alone. As we cross the bridges of trouble, may we see the Living Water, Jesus, walking right next to us, if not carrying us every step of the way.

Just like when we reach the mountain, the ultimate sacrifice will bring beauty and eternal life - a Father gives His all for the love of his children and family. On the other side of this sacrifice...beauty, peace, and forever.

We may not see tomorrow but with Jesus...eternity is a guarantee! To quote Mr. Crood to his family at the end of the movie, "What is the point? To follow The Light!"

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Don't Hide in the Darkness...Seek THE Light!
The End is Coming
Strive to Reach the Mountain on High
There is enough Light for all of us...
His name is Jesus!

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying,
“I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me
will not walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 ESV

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What's your favorite part of "The Croods" if you already watched it?