Marvel comic movies have grossed over $10 billion in theatres. (Source: boxofficemojo) Marvel will capitalize on this momentum with a total of 15 new movies in 2018 and 2019. When a society is that heavily invested in something it gives you a glimpse of what is in our hearts. Yes, we love the opportunity to escape, but I think there is more to it. Here are 3 things that the success of Marvel comic movies say about us.
1. Our recognition that evil exists
Each superhero movie needs to establish a villain. Without the villain, the rest of the movie does not make much sense. For me, part of the intrigue in these movies is understanding the back story of the villain. The back story of the villain helps us understand their motives in the evil. The villains are not seen as a threat when they are in their own private world. They become feared when they begin to create havoc in the lives of others.
2. Our need for a hero
Each Marvel movie needs the hero to come to the rescue. Everyone knows that the average person is unable to conquer the evil that is destroying the world. People recognize their limitations, and they recognize that there is a need for someone who is greater and stronger to come to their rescue.
3. Our longing to be part of making things right
Superhero movies usually have a rich cast of secondary characters. These characters see the threats and the damage caused by the villain. They know they cannot be the true hero, but they also have a desire to be part of making things right in the story. They are willing to sacrifice and stand with the hero in the battle for true freedom.
A Glimpse of the Real Story
I believe our attraction to Marvel comic movies gives us a glimpse of something we deeply know about ourselves and the world we live in. Evil does not exist only in a movie – we all know this. We also feel helpless to heal the pain that evil has caused or stop the villain causing it. It seems that no matter what we do, there is always more evil lurking. We know we need a hero to rescue us, but we also know that we have a desire to be part of this story.
Our attraction to these stories is an indication of a deeper story inside of us. That story unfolds in the pages of the Bible.
Evil exists – Satan is the villain who is creating havoc and destruction in the world. We see and feel his impact in broken relationships, sexual assault, greed, murder, and so much more.
Jesus Christ is the hero. Every life has been wounded or destroyed by evil. Life is not as it is supposed to be – we all feel it. He is the Son of God who has come to defeat the villain and rescue us. There is no victory apart from Jesus.
When we put our trust in Jesus, He rescues us and also makes us part of His Church. The Church is called to live and bring His message of hope, love, and healing to the world. We get to be part of the story to make things right.
I enjoy watching superhero movies, but I enjoy the real life story even more. Just like in a good movie, there is coming a time when the real hero will return and bring a final conclusion to the story we live in. If you have never looked to Jesus as the only one who can rescue us, I invite you to explore His story more. If you already believe in Jesus as the victor, then I encourage you to be active in your role to bring healing and hope to the world in Jesus’ name.
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