Magic Dragons and Relics

Peter and Paul were on one of the morning shows this past week. They were lamenting the departure of Mary from their group and reminiscing about the great songs they sung together. Puff the Magic Dragon was a thought provoking and sometimes controversial song that Peter, Paul and Mary sung back in the 60's. Life changes was a missed interpretation that perhaps has applications today. In the words of the song, Puff lives by the sea in a land identified as Hon ah Lee. The land could just as easily have been John Key or Come and See, just as long as it fit. The name Puff could just as easily have been Papa, Nana, Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, Dad... any old relic would do. Dragons are creatures of the past and are steeped in a tradition so unlike reality that they have become quaint. The magic that Puff made was via a relationship. Puff's relationship with little Jackie Paper (name changed to protect the innocent) was based on love which is certainly magic . That "rascal" Puff frolicked because Jackie loved him unconditionally. Puff and Jackie enjoyed a fantastic world of sailing ships, stars, frogs, squirrels, garbage trucks or things that go 'round and 'round, anything that supported their love for one another. The enjoyment of their company was accentuated by shared experience predicated on learning principles of how to share love and regard for one another. Jackie learned the rudiments of Puff's language but their communication transcended language and relied on trust, love, and shared experience. Puff could live forever, though time and distance separated the friends, because of the magic. As Jackie grows, thoughts of frogs, squirrels, and gingerbread men seem to slip away as adventures and relationships become more sophisticated. In the song a grey night arrives but Jackie does not and the old dragon cannot summon the strength to frolic, laugh or roar. The old dragon finds sorrow and depression has overcome him and what has been his armor begins to rust away as he quietly slips into a dark place that has befallen old dragons for years. Sometimes the loss of special relationships exacts a terrible toll and the dragons lose their awesomeness, magic and the music in their hearts. They cannot face their new reality, their friend is replaced by darkness, the mist where they frolicked begins to poison them as they drown in self doubt and remorse.
There IS a lasting relationship that at times escapes us. Development of a lifelong friend in Jesus allows us to live forever in comfort and joy. As earthly friends and relationships fade Jesus is there to stand with us in the most difficult circumstances. He may not enjoy a relationship based on fantasy but He will comfort you in your realities. His light is forever, darkness will never overcome and there will be a song in your heart.