“But courage, child: we are all between the paws of the true Aslan.”

This line from C. S. Lewis’ “The Last Battle” arrested me as my husband read this seventh and final book of the Chronicles of Narnia series after dinner. I called for a “selah” moment to let it sink in.

Since March, I think all Americans realize how much of our daily life lies between the paws of governing officials as access to places of worship, businesses, jobs, and playgrounds are restricted in what seems to be the snap of someone else’s fingers. Our normal habits and quality of life have changed. We seem to view our neighbors differently and we marvel at old family photos where everyone’s hugging and smiling.

But let me remind you that in all of the unknowns, the resetting, the unbelievability of 2020, we are all between the paws of the ‘True’ Aslan. The governing officials, whom Paul tells us we should pray for whether we cheer or rant against them, are between His paws too.

King Tirian’s encouraging words to Jill in “The Last Battle” reminded me of the many “fear not” verses our Comforter speaks to us.

For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand;
it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” — Isaiah 41:13

As I continued to ponder, I realized Tirian was not only speaking to Jill of Aslan’s comfort and protection, but reminding her that even their enemies, who were destroying Narnia through both violent swords and violent lies about Aslan, were also between his paws.

Strengthen the weak hands,
and make firm the feeble knees.
Say to those who have an anxious heart,
“Be strong; fear not!
Behold, your God
will come with vengeance,
with the recompense of God.
He will come and save you.” — Isaiah 34:3-4

The beginning of the Hebrew religious calendar, Rosh Hashanah, is nearly upon us. As we step into the month of Elul, a month of preparation and ‘teshuvah’ (returning and repentance) let us walk humbly and with courage between the paws of the Lion of Judah.

“The lion has roared; who will not fear? The Lord God has spoken; who can but prophesy?” — Amos 3:8