The movie The Polar Express based on Chris Van Allsburg’s children’s book tells the story of a young boy’s questions whether Santa Claus is real. After discovering evidence that disproves Santa’s existence he is picked up on the Polar Express, a magical train that takes select children to the North Pole.
[Q] How does the boy’s questions about Santa Clause in The Polar Express compare to questions people ask about God?
[Q] In the movie, the boy’s attitude changes and he comes to believe in Santa Clause. On what is this boy’s newfound belief based?
Read Mark 9:14-29.
[Q] When Jesus arrives on the scene in verse 14 a dispute is underway. What is the attitude of the people who were gathered toward Jesus?
[Q] What can be learned about the man who interrupted the disciples from verses 17-18?
[Q] In verse 19 Jesus is deeply disappointed by the lack of belief displayed by the people around him. The crowd was introduced by Mark as “overwhelmed with wonder” at Jesus, why is it then that Jesus refers to them as “faithless”?
[Q] How does Jesus respond to this father’s request?
[Q] How do the father’s words in verse 22 reveal hope?
[Q] Can you identify with the father’s plea in verse 24?
[Q] The father in this story goes through a process: disappointment (9:12)— resigned, skeptical request (9:22)—followed by a confession and plea for help (9:24). Consider your own spiritual journey, did you experience a similar process?
[Q] What about this father’s encounter with Jesus grows your belief in him? On what is this belief based?
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