In the first three chapters our story begins. We’re introduced to Mack and we find out about the note, his family, glimpses into his personality, and the fateful trip he took with his children. As we dig into these chapters, we’re going to find that in the way of narratives there may often be multiple themes, especially in the chapters where the author is setting up the rest of the book. I am, however, struck by a number of interesting points. I’d like to explore these a little, so please comment if you’ve read the book.
First, what do you think of the Note? What was your first reaction when you read it? What do you think of God communicating in this type of way?
Two, what was your first reaction to the title, Papa, for God (e.g. p. 22)? God is our father and invites us to refer to him as Abba, which is somewhat familiar. This can be a little overplayed sometimes. Especially when dealing with God the father there’s got to be a tension between the big, awe-inspiring transcendence with the God who deliberately chooses a close and comforting familial metaphor. How do you envision God? (We’ll be getting into this issue of God’s nearness vs. transcendence even more in the future as Mack deals with it in his encounters)
Three, the issue of general revelation comes up in this section a little. General revelation refers to the ways in which we can comprehend God from nature, logic, our senses, etc. Mack speaks of seeing God in nature, which is something I think all of us have experienced. How much do you think we can understand about God from these sources? Sometimes people seem to think that they can find God in nature, family, science, etc and that this is enough. What are they missing?
Finally, in his first point meant to poke Christians a little he speaks of the Native American legend about the princess who gives her life in order to stop a disease (p. 30-31). Mack’s daughter asks him if the Great Spirit is the same as God. What would you say to a child who asks a similar question- e.g. My friend prays to Allah, is that God? That’s a question we’re dealing with a lot right now. Where do you seek to find common ground with other faiths and where do you start to demarcate? Mack says that they are the same, yet this book itself delves into the Trinity in great detail. We understand God as inseparably being Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, one who is that by nature and one who also acts according to these roles. Does that seem to fit other gods who are one, or many, or who demand certain actions or levels of obedience first in order to receive forgiveness/salvation? I’m probably betraying myself here, but would invite dialogue.
That’s more than enough and more than I intended to write. Please, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Tags: chapters 1-3, Papa, questions, The Shack
I loved that he referred to God as Papa! When I visualized, some years ago, “God” as my perfect Father,I felt so much closer to him and was able to totally trust his love for me.As a child,I was taught you pretty much had to be perfect(or so it felt)to have a relationship with God.Of course I always fell short but when I thought of him as father I knew that no matter how I fell short he would always love me, no matter what.