Movies have a unique ability to clearly show complex ideas, like in "The Covenant." While not rooted in actual events, the movie encapsulates a valid concept— covenant. Much like Special Ops Sergeant John Finley's evolving connection with his Afghan interpreter Ahmed, the film delves into how alliances can shift from transactional to transformative. By paralleling this narrative with biblical covenant principles, we can explore profound concepts of trust, rescue, and the impact of grace in our lives.

SACRED COVENANT: GOD'S TRANSFORMATION

Initially, Sergeant Finley's association with Ahmed is purely transactional. Ahmed serves as an interpreter for an agreed-upon reward. This mirrors our early interactions with God, often approached with a transactional mindset, seeking blessings. However, with time, we discover God desires more—a genuine, intimate relationship. The Bible, with over 290 covenant references, highlights this theme. A covenant isn't a mere contract; It is a solemn agreement between two parties to create and maintain a successful relationship. Isaiah 48:17 emphasizes God's desire for a deep connection, guiding us along transformative paths. Many times in life, when God reroutes you, it isn't because he doesn't love you or want you to have any fun; it's because he loves you enough to tell you where that fun is taking you! He knows what is best for us. 

Similar to Sergeant Finley's trust in Ahmed's intel during difficult moments, we confront choices about whose guidance to rely on. The world has a lot to say on what we should do and how we should do it, but whose intel are you paying attention to? Are you trusting what the world says or what the Word says? Are you depending on what makes sense or trusting what God says? Amid conflicting advice, trusting God's wisdom becomes vital. The Bible teaches us in Proverbs 14:12, "There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death." God's ways are the best and lead to a good life. Trusting this way can be challenging, especially when it goes against what we want or what seems normal. Yet, surrendering to God's wisdom is an act of faith, steering us from life's pitfalls.

RESCUE, TRANSFORMATION, DEDICATION: FAITH'S CALL

The movie portrays Ahmed's heroic act of carrying the wounded Sergeant Finley through treacherous terrain, echoing Christ's ultimate rescue mission. Christ liberated us from darkness, bringing us into His Kingdom through His death and resurrection. True transformation comes through surrendering to Christ's rescue and relinquishing our attempts at self-salvation. Our inclination is seeking temporary relief, akin to struggling in a rip current instead of embracing a lifeguard's aid. When life starts pulling us under, we must surrender to the Rescuer, Jesus! Christ's rescue requires trust in His plan! His love for us is displayed in Romans 5:8, "But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners." 

Sergeant Finley's decision to protect Ahmed's family showcases an unyielding dedication fueled by a profound feeling of thankfulness. Likewise, as faith followers, our actions are propelled by the Creator's divine kindness. This concept of "Holy discontentment" drives our endeavors. But what does Holy discontentment mean? It's the discomfort granted by God concerning certain aspects of our world. It's the passionate turmoil we experience when something contradicts the intended design of The Creator. What is it for you? Is it for the poor, racial inequality, or emerging generations believing the lies of this world because people are shying away from the truth?

TRUSTING THE COVENANT'S POWER

Throughout the Bible, individuals like Moses, Davis, and Paul were driven by holy discontent to fulfill their purpose in God's plan. The book of Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." We're a part of God's big plan! We must remember that our good works do not save us, but we are saved to do good works! We are in covenant with Him. Our relationship with God isn't just about personal convenience but personal commitment, actively partnering with Him in His redemptive work. 

"The Covenant" may be a fictional film, but its themes of trust, rescue, and transformation resonate deeply with the biblical concept of covenant. Just as Sergeant Finely's relationship with Ahmed evolves from transactional to transformational, our relationship with God can transition from a mere contract to a profound covenant. When we listen to God, let Him rescue us, and act gracefully; life goes far beyond what's easy or comfy. How Ahmed's family found freedom through Sergeant Finlet's sacrifice, we find true freedom and purpose when we embrace the covenant relationship God offers us through His Son, Jesus! 

Here are three important things to remember this week:

#1) Trust God, not the world. Follow your Savior, not just your heart.

#2) Seek God first, not last, in tough times.

#3) Embrace God's grace and purpose; live for Jesus.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For more encouragement, support, and tools to equip you, we encourage you to check out these additional resources:

• MESSAGE: To watch Liquid Church's entire message on "Jesus Revolution" from Part Two of our Series, "At The Movies," Click here.
• ARTICLE:  Are you stuck doing things you hate over and over again? Do you want things to be different but end up doing the same stuff you can't stand? Change can be challenging, but with God's help, it's not only possible; it can completely transform our lives. Click here "Freedom Is Waiting." 
• MESSAGE: Did you miss the first installment of our At The Movies Series, "Jesus Revolution?" It's time for a new generation to rise up in revival! If we want to see this, we must open the doors of our churches and arms to embrace them! To learn more, Click here.