Angels and Demons

This is a new movie with Tom Hanks. It is the sequel to The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown and is called Angels and Demons.

Again we find the theological challenges posed by the fictions of Brown bringing many to a quest for truth. If Mr. Brown has done anything (intentional or not), he has created a fantastic stage to let unanswered questions be asked so that answers can be discovered. The biggest key here is to understand that Brown's works are fictions and thus should be looked at from the viewpoint. It doesn't mean we cannot discover truth from his attempts to entertain his readership.

I have yet to read either book, but I did see The Da Vinci Code and will see the Angels and Demons because I like good entertainment - Tom Hanks is a great actor. I will also lead discussions on the truths behind the story because true faith is about discovery and acceptance of the unknowns.

It is the unknowns that drive us. This is why scientists continually try to find the origins of life - it is God's innate design. We are driven to discover Him. For some, that discovery lies within the unknown reaches of the universe. For others, it is awaiting them in the subatomic particles that make up everything in our existence. It is a drive that they cannot not let go of.

Some don't let go because the simple answer of God is not good enough for them. They have a searching soul and have a hard time reconciling that search with the simplicity of God's design and His desire to have relationship with His creation. That's all fine.

My hope is that books and films like those of Dan Brown will do one important thing; help us each find the answers we are designed to search for. For me, the answer came in a church setting almost 17 years ago. For others, that journey may end in their death. But regardless of that journey, my prayer is that each of us can accept the simple truths of God, of His Son, and of the actions of His Son to bring peace to our lives through relationship with Him.

So if you plan on seeing the movie, Angels and Demons, please do so. But don't let a fictitious story define your search for truth. Here is a great place to start your journey (it also contains a link to a sister site dedicated to Brown's first work): The Truth About Angels and Demons

For those who are still searching, keep doing so. I am cheering you on. Your work is important, not just in understanding life around you, but in opening and restoring hope to you. Thanks for your hard work, and I pray that you will one day quench the thirst of your searching soul. But in case you were wondering, Jesus is pretty good at quenching the thirst.

For those of you who have been trying to define and refine your search, just promise me one thing - don't let your search drag you away from God. Let your search question what you know about God and help you find answers you want to know about God.

I pray for the awesome journey you are on - it is more fun that watching a hundred episodes of your favorite TV show or movie. It is real life.