THE STAR WARS YOUTH TALK
As with all great pieces of culture, the Star Wars franchise can be used as the basis for some pretty flimsy youth talks:
Sometimes, when we’re facing a huge challenge, we need to tune out from the advice the world is giving us, and tune in to a power bigger than ourselves, just as Luke did when attacking the Death Star. (NB. Don’t take this approach and turn your sat-nav off while driving young people to your weekend away; it won’t end well.)
In one of the series’ greatest moments, Leia tells Han she loves him and he replies, ‘I know’. This is exactly how God responds when we tell him that we love him. Sort of. Maybe. Kind of.
Show this clip, of Darth Vader reprimanding high-ranking Empire officials, and just stand there, in silence, staring at your young people. That will sort them out.
THE STAR WARS CHARACTERS IN YOUR YOUTH GROUP
Darth Maul
This young person barely utters a word all evening at youth group. They stalk around the place, looking menacing but blending in, saying very little. But eventually, BAM, just when you don’t expect it, they spread panic and fear. (This normally involves them tripping over and sending the tuck shop flying.)
C-3PO
You know that kid that constantly interrupts with nothing really to say? They mean well but they’re operating in a completely different universe. That kid is definitely C-3PO.
Jar-Jar Binks
(See The Elephant Room on page 17.)