Remember

This is one of my favorite scenes from The Lion King—it also taps into a foundational theme for the masculine identity. Simba has been running for quite some time, running from his past and ultimately his identity. It takes a woman (well, female lion) calling him out to prompt his entrance into a space of remembrance, and in that space the heavens open up to reveal his father, Mufasa. The dialogue that ensures centers around one key command: Remember.

One of the foundational words for the identity of man in Hebrew is Zakar, which means “to remember.” Thus, an essential ingredient of a man is his ability to remember who is and Who he is made for. When men forget their identity their courage often fails, and so too do they fail the ones who depend on them. Adam failed to protect Eve because he forgot who he was and stood by in passivity. It’s a favored trick of all those spirits not on God’s side. What better way to sabotage a good man than from within? For a long time I let my past mistakes and sins define how I looked at myself as a man, but thankfully this past year I have been able to remember in my heart Who I belong to. Here in Africa, I am in a primordial land of new beginnings and natural wonder. I am daily shaken out of my comfort zone and reminded that I am not in charge. I did not create myself or these rambunctious children outside my window or the monkeys that invade the local restaurants.

“You have forgotten who you are and so have forgotten me. Look inside yourself…you are more than what you have become. ” Mufasa’s appeal echoes that of our Lord’s—remember. Simba grows to manhood during his period of exile and reflection upon the face of his father. Only then can he finally transcend his reluctance and excuses. The Scriptures continually remind us of the urgency to remember. Only by remembering can we move forward—identity precedes mission. “Remember who you are. You are my son.”

Dan and I have been given the amazing opportunity of reuniting in Kenya near the end of July. You can bet that I will be on the lookout for lions, meerkats and warthogs, but more than these I am anticipating a time of spiritual renewal. I guess I’m expecting God to offer me a “Pride Rock” experience of consolation and profound grace to conclude my adventure—yeah, I can be demanding. Until then, my task is to daily remember that my time here is limited and give myself to each day.

I entreat you now to hear within yourselves that commanding inflection of James Earl Jones: “Remember.”

-Bob
written 06/30/11