Les Mis 2: Javert and the Law

Start by reading Romans 7:1-6 and 7:13-26

In this session we’re taking a look at Javert.  We’re continuing in this larger theme of the law and faith that we find running throughout the story of Les Miserables and how that same theme plays out in the book of Romans. One of the things that I love about this story is that he helps us wade through Paul’s dense writing.  I’ll be one of the first to admit that he can be a challenge to read.  A lot of that is because he is trying to explain a very complex, but also personal topic for him.  There are lots of us that are like that.  Our ability to explain things decreases when they get to be more personal because all of the emotions that surround us get in the way.  So, Victor Hugo does a great job of explaining that through his story.

We start off by remembering who it is that we’re talking about in Javert.  He is a lawman.  Not only is he a lawman, but he is someone who holds a very high view of the law.  The law has become his God.  Everything that he does is based on what the law says.  And that makes sense for Javert because of where he came from. The law was what provided the structure he needed in his life.

Les Mis 1 – Faith and the Law

Start by reading Romans 2:1-1, 12-16; 3:9, 19-26

This series is based on the recent Les Miserable movie. Reading the book helps, but isn’t necessary. If you want to follow along in the movie, watch from the beginning to the point where Valjean rips up his papers.

There are a lot of big themes that come out in this movie. There are so many that it’d be hard to follow all of them, so for this series, I’ll be focusing on one of them.  For me, the most important theme is the role of faith and the law.

What Drives You?

Start by reading Deuteronomy 4:1-6 and Matthew 25:31-46

These are two great passages, but they present us with a conundrum.  I know, that’s not a word that you’re used to using in everyday conversation (unless you’re me, and like funny sounding words).  Basically, we’re presented with two different ideas that we want to be able to do both, but are unsure of how to do it.

You may be saying to yourself, “what do you mean?”  One the one hand we’re presented with a rule abiding, obedient, lawful faith.  One where everyone agrees to follow one set of rules, and live by any consequences that come because of them. On the other hand, we have Jesus talking about what we do and what we don’t do. That may sound similar to rules, and some look at it as rules, but they aren’t really. Jesus doesn’t mention any rules there, rather its all about what we do just because we are who we are.

Scarcity, Abundance, and the Unexpected

Start by reading John 6:1-21

This idea of scarcity and abundance is something that has been on my mind a lot, but it wasn’t very clear.  What was there, has started to take on a better shape.  The main reason for this is due to Church Camp.

I enjoy going to church camp.  I know, that for most folks, their idea of a good time isn’t spending  week with a bunch of high school and junior high age kids.  For me that’s a vacation.  There is something genuine about them, once you get past the person that they want everyone to think they are.  They are at that goofy and awkward age when they are still trying to figure out who they are.  That time of life leads to a lot of laughter, but also to a lot of vulnerability.  Its both fun, and a privilege for me to share in that time with them.