Adoption and Reconciliation

All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

The Boy in Striped Pajamas is the terribly confronting story of two eight-year-old boys in Germany who become friends during World War II. Bruno is the son of the German commandant who oversees a Jewish work camp. Bruno explores life beyond his house and there finds Schmuel, his friend who wears striped pajamas and lives inside a barbed-wire camp. Innocence fades as Bruno’s friendship with Schmuel deepens. Meanwhile, the commandant’s family struggles as Bruno’s father tries to remain committed to nationalistic interests while simultaneously working to keep his family oblivious to the horrors of Nazi Germany.

You will need to see the movie for yourself. Suffice it to say, however that the story causes one to feel the obvious clashes that often exist between loyalty, truth, friendships, and family.

Indeed, the era of world history which produced the Holocaust vividly reveals the depravity of humanity. Reflecting on the Holocaust inevitably leaves one panting for hope.

While the Holocaust, and particularly The Boy in Striped Pajamas do not inspire hope, the Christian is simply unable to think about such tragedies without reminding himself of the redemption which is found in Jesus Christ. In the face of despair and hopelessness, Christ brings strength and hope. As Maltbie D. Babcock reminds us, “This is my Father’s world. O let me ne’er forget that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.”

God certainly is the ruler. There are many times every day when his rule may be questioned. However, regardless of circumstances, he is the ruler. And one day, all things are going to be made right.

One day, there will be no more pain. One day, there will be no more suffering. One day, there will be no more tragedy. One day, there will be no more orphans.

There will soon be four little boys in our house. And they won’t just be buddies—they’ll be brothers.

One day, we will have our family together. And while it will not be that Day of no more pain, suffering, tragedy, or orphans, it will be a foretaste of that Day when God makes all things right.