I’m back after a hiatus with the rewrite of my novel. Act
One is finished, so I have two more to go. I happened upon a video which I
dimly recalled seeing part of many years ago, from the early 80’s. To some the
idea of a flying house, particularly in this cheesy style anime may seem
childish. To others, it may seem unworthy of any special consideration. For me,
it makes me cry.
Why?
To me it’s the story of a much bigger picture. You see, to
me the kids represent people. All people of all ages. They are doing their
thing, playing a game of hide and seek. That’s what adults do, too. We’re all
still the kids we once were on the inside. We do our thing, too, only we are
more concerned with money, our work performance, our families chores around the
house that have to get done and other grown-up things.
Then a summer storm appears. The storms of life. We all face
them. The fear of the unknown. “What will happen if…?” Corky, the younger child
displays his apprehension and concern with no feelings held back. He chases his
older brother hoping for security and comfort. We adults do that, too. We look towards
things which bring us solace when trouble and uncertainty head our way.
Then, they are presented with a house. It, too is an
unknown, but it may provide protection in the storm. Do they go inside? To me,
the house represents a leap of faith. There are no doubts other houses that one
may turn to in the woods of life. But this one is special.
The children are given refuge from the storm and meet the
caretaker of the house, a caring adult filled with wisdom and knowledge. But
then something unexpected happens. The entire group are taken to a new place. A
new life. A new beginning.
What is not shown at the end of the video is who the
children meet when the flying house finally lands from its fantastic journey.
They meet Jesus, and run up to him. He
welcomes them with enthusiasm and love.
The entire story just touches the strings of my heart. I can
see it. It is my hope that in this little article which may not seem like much,
you can see it, too.
Matthew 18 2 He called a little child to him, and placed the
child among them. 3 And
he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become
like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
God bless you all.
Glenn Houtchens
