Why Do We Like Star Wars?
Why has the Star Wars film franchise been so successful? Superior writing, good storylines, great acting, etc. are some of the things that make for a good movie. But one thing really stands out to me is our love for the underdog. Whether the underdog wins, lives to fight another day or dies for his ideals, we just love rooting for him or her.
That’s why the Horatio Alger stories of a few generations ago were so popular. Something deep within our souls resonates with the underdog, especially when they triumph over incredible odds. How many of you remember the 1980 U.S. Olympic team? They weren’t expected to do very well at all, but they went on to win the gold metal. They even made a TV movie on it called “Miracle on Ice”. Then Hollywood made a full length movie on them called “Miracle”.
The TV show, America’s Got Talent, always seems to have one contestant that the judges don’t think will do very well. That contestant then blows them away with their talent. While I don’t watch the show regularly, I love watching the youtube video clips of their auditions. One of my favorites is the original audition of Susan Boyle. It’s also the reason we love seeing a bully get his comeuppance.
The desire to see the underdog win is exactly why the story of the cross resonates with so many of us. Jesus definitely came into this world an underdog. Even though He could have used His super-powers to “straighten up this world”, He chose not to. He could have called down 10,000 angels to defeat the “bullies” of His day when He was hanging on the cross (Matthew 26:53 & Philippians 2:6-8)). But He was after something much bigger…the saving of our souls.
This is what we’re called to do. To deny ourselves and walk with thru the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Remember though that we will not get our rewards in this life (Matthew 6:19-21 16:27; 2nd Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 22:12). Oh, we may get some small rewards, but the bigger rewards await us in Heaven. At the 2nd Coming, all the wrongs will be made right for all eternity.
The story of the Cross permeates our very being. We love it even if we don’t always recognize its various incarnations in our lives. Whether it’s in movies, TV, songs or novels, the story of the Cross (the underdog winning) shines thru and touches our very souls.
Can you now identify why you like certain stories, movies & songs? Think on it. You’ll be surprised!
For His Kingdom,
Dave Maynard
http://BSSSB-LLC.com
