The Inklings: Bridging Faith and Imagination Hello my Social Media friends! Today, I want to delve into a fascinating exploration of two colossal figures in literature: C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. These men not only shaped the literary landscape of the twentieth century, but they also provided robust defenses of the Christian faith through their works. They were not merely authors; they were individuals who infused their stories with profound truths that resonate with our spiritual journeys. In an era marked by skepticism and uncertainty, Lewis and Tolkien emerged as formidable champions of faith, weaving allegory and insight into narratives that continue to inspire millions. C.S. Lewis, with his enchanting Narnia series—especially The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe—crafted a world that beautifully mirrors the Christian gospel, captivating both young readers and adults alike. His apologetic writings, like Mere Christianity, offer clear, compelling arguments for faith that illuminate the path toward understanding God’s love. On the other hand, J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpieces, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, transport readers to Middle-earth, a realm rich with adventure and moral complexity. His portrayal of courage, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil strikes a chord in our hearts, inviting us to reflect on our own battles and the hope that faith offers. Both authors were not only talented writers but also integral members of the Inklings, an informal literary group at Oxford in the 1930s and 40s, which included other notable writers such as Charles Williams and Hugo Dyson. This vibrant community fostered creativity and thought, allowing ideas about faith, literature, and philosophy to flourish in a supportive environment. What captivates me most about the Inklings is the way they approached storytelling as a means of deepening their faith while engaging with the world. Their discussions and mutual encouragement fueled their imaginations, reminding us of how vital community is in our personal and professional lives. Today, I am thrilled to share an exclusive and free video series that delves into the fascinating lives and legacies of the Inklings. This series explores their friendship, their writing process, and how their faith continually shaped their work. If you’re curious to learn more and enjoy an enriching experience, you can gain instant access to this free resource by clicking on the following link: [The Inklings Video Series](https://info.hillsdale.edu/the-inklings-cca). As we navigate our own narratives—both in our careers and personal lives—let’s take a page from Lewis and Tolkien’s book. Let’s embrace creativity and community. Let’s find ways to express our beliefs through our work, be they direct or woven subtly into the fabric of our professional endeavors. Whether you’re a writer, a thinker, or someone simply curious about the impact of faith in literature, I invite you to explore the insights within this video series. Engaging with the works of Lewis and Tolkien enables us to reflect on our purpose, our community, and how we can articulate our faith in a meaningful way. In a culture that often seems dismissive of faith, Lewis and Tolkien remind us that storytelling has the power to illuminate truth and inspire hope. May we all find ways to share our stories and create spaces that foster authentic dialogue about faith and creativity! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on how storytelling has influenced your personal or professional journey. Happy watching! #CSLewis #JRRRTolkien #Inklings #ChristianFaith #Storytelling #Community #Literature #FaithAndWork #Inspiration John Sheehan, (Dr. hc.) drjohnmsheehan[gmail].com (870) 321-8852

What Happened To Your Joy? Written By Becky Toews What then has become of your blessedness? Galatians 4:15 How would you feel if someone asked you that question? “What has become of your blessedness?” Or, “what happened to your joy?” Paul asked the Galatians that question. The joy they had experienced when they first came to Jesus was slowly dying. Dying, because they had fallen back into old patterns of legalism. And nothing kills joy like feeling you have to cross every t and dot every i to be acceptable to God…. or anyone for that matter. But it’s not just legalism that can steal our joy. For many of us, the weight of responsibility creeps in to overshadow the joys in life. Or financial issues, health problems, relationship struggles consume our thoughts. Christianity is a joyful religion. CS Lewis writes in Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer, that joy is the “serious business of heaven.” All the momentary joys we experience here on the earth are but inklings of what we will discover in eternity. God made us for those permanent pleasures, but limits their duration while on earth, lest they distract us. Lewis says, “Our Father refreshes us on the journey with some pleasant inns, but will not encourage us to mistake them for home.” Some of those “pleasant inns” for me include “inns” like lattes and scones at my favorite café. Joys like giving my new granddaughter her first doll, walking in new fallen snow, reading a good book. Maybe your “inn” entails a trip to the beach, preparing a delicious meal or traveling somewhere new. As enjoyable as these temporary pleasures may be, they are but “foretastes of glory divine.” God gives them to help us counter the inevitable disappointments, setbacks, and seasons of stress we encounter in fallen life. So joy (even though impermanent) protects us from giving in to the harder sides of life. So I believe the question of what happened to your joy stands as an indictment on losing our perspective on what really matters. Because when we feel joyful, we feel grateful. And gratitude takes our eyes off ourselves and on to God. Don’t let anything steal your joy. Lord, forgive me when I fail to appreciate the many good things you send my way. Help me develop a heart of gratitude and walk in the joy you want me to have. Throughout the Day: Think of all the “pleasant inns” God has given you. Be intentional in praising him for each one. #BibleStudy #VerseByVerse #Gospel #dagoodnews #follow #share #LikeFollowShare #JesusCentered #GodFirst #WordOfGod #PreachTheWord #ChristianLiving #Scripture #Faith #JesusIsLord #DaGoodNews #YouTube #Grow #LordsBook #ChristianLordsbook #ChristianFacebook #DailyDevotional #Jesus #God