October 8, 2025
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Yellow Brick Grace
“For the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (NRSVUE)
Last week our family made popcorn and settled in for a classic movie night - The Wizard of Oz. The last time we tried to watch it, the kids didn’t even make it past Ms. Gulch’s bicycle scene (that witch music is so effective!). But this time, they made it all the way through…and so did I, in a new way.
Watching it again, I realized how rich the story is in meaning, especially for people of faith. Over the next few Wednesdays, I’d like to reflect on three themes that lingered with me:
Good, Evil, and the Man Behind the Curtain The Grace of Gifts from Within Walking the Yellow Brick Road From the moment Dorothy’s house lands in Munchkinland and parks itself right on the Wicked Witch’s sister, moral opposites stand face-to-face: Glinda the Good Witch in light, the Wicked Witch in shadow. In a way, it’s like God versus the serpent (maybe that’s why she’s green). My kids caught on right away - shrieks for the witch, cheers when she melts at the end. It’s clear: a battle between good and evil has begun. But just when it seems like the story is a simple fight between light and dark, a new figure steps onto the stage...The Wizard!
What do we make of the Wizard? Is he good? Or is he bad?
Well, before granting their wishes, he sends Dorothy and her crew on what can only be described as a death trap to return the witch’s broom. And when they do come back with it, he tells them to come back the next day - that is, until Toto reveals who “the man behind the curtain” really is. What a phony! Personally, I think his deception is worse than the witch’s wickedness, despite the trinkets he "awards" them at the end: evil can be resisted, but deception quietly reshapes what we believe.
We still live among wizards - voices that promise meaning, power, or peace if only we’ll trust them. Some wear political titles or celebrity brands; some have unfortunately been in the church throughout its history. Their magic is still the same: noise, polish, and performance. But the curtain eventually falls.
The gospel offers a different kind of power. God doesn't say, “Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain, ” but instead, “Pay attention to the man on the cross.” We can trust in His ways and sacrifice.
Reflection: What “wizards” in your life try to project power or control, but leave you feeling empty?
Prayer: Gracious God, thank You for revealing true power through humility. Help me see through the illusions that distract and deceive. Strip away the noise and spectacle of false gods so I can see You clearly: gentle, honest, and strong in love. Amen.
With faith, hope, and love, Eric Smith