Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. The Lord works out everything to its proper end” – Proverbs 16:3-4
Les Misérables does not sound like the story that would inspire joy, purpose, and calling, considering its direct translation is “The Miserable” or “The Wretched.” Truthfully, the nearly 3 hours long musical, or the 1,463 pages of novel might incite a heaviness to anyone unfamiliar with the tale. However, Les Mis is so full of passion, vigor, and inspiration that it is difficult to walk out without feeling the power of what feels like a 300-person army (even though it is only 33 on stage). The songs from this musical are some of the most iconic in the Broadway canon, and when the audience hears the overture, it creates a swell of emotion, much like The Phantom of the Opera.
Les Misérables is such an integral story because Jean Valjean has a connection to his faith. It is his faith that leads him to make the decision to take the mercy that the Bishop bestows onto him and to create a better life, or to take Cosette from the dying Fantine and to raise her as his own, etc. He makes choices throughout the story that lead to personal solidarity and holiness; he desires closeness to God, and I think we all understand that need.
Have you ever been at a crossroads where you feel the need to ask the question: Who is God calling me to be?
Jean Valjean, the lead character of Les Misérables found himself at this same crossroad when he was stealing food and items to feed his family. He found himself there when he was on the run from Javert who was hunting him mercilessly. He found himself there when he attempted to protect Marius in the midst of war. In each moment, we see Valjean choose to grow closer to God and in turn he becomes who God is calling him to be.
When we choose to read our Bible, serve in a ministry, pray for others, and spend alone time with God, we will inevitable start to feel a closeness to God. That closeness that we experience will lead us to knowing our purpose and our calling. We must commit to Him and in that will we experience the fullness that God has for us.
Kelsey Paul, Director of Arts Education and Downtown LifeLight Worship Leader
