September 14, 2005

Surprised by Joy

C.S. Lewis' famous autobiography (Surprised by Joy) is a source of great encouragement. Those of you who know me well know that I am only half a fan of Lewis; at once both a great admirer of his skill as a word-smith and a critic of his theology. Lewis was a man who, for better or for worse, lived much of his life inside his head, as I do. His short stories display this well, his unfinished story "The Dark Tower" being among my all time favorite works of fiction. He was a man with world wars around him, yet more troubled by conflict within himself, and yet still burdened in Christ for the souls of others.

I find Lewis so very encouraging; I am troubled, yet still surprised by joy. Today I suffered personal failings, yet by day's end can say confidently I have joy. As you can see from the previous post (how "blog" of me to release my angst!), I was less than heroic at work. Aslan would not have been proud. Yet, today ends with a happiness, even a relief, that defies my common existence. Moreover, in the span of three hours I received more encouragement than I usually get in a week. I am indeed surprised by joy.

So it is that I seek the hidden knowledge, seek the Dark Tower. But like those scientists, try to avoid falling into the . . .

Madness!

Posted by Jake Allen at September 14, 2005 11:26 PM
Comments

If I ever need a place to stay, could I live with you in your head? Only if there is no bother and you have room. Although there are those who would say my head is so big, that if I lived there I would get lost.

Madness?

dad

Posted by: dad allen at September 16, 2005 08:21 AM

:)

Posted by: Sarah Grinder at September 16, 2005 03:16 PM