In the final chapter of the final book in The Chronicles of Narnia, The Last Battle, something mysterious happens. I’m not talking about the destruction of the old Narnia, the sudden super-speed of the humans, their ability to run up a waterfall, or any of the other wondrous things that take place on their journey further up and further into Aslan’s country.

The Mysterious Moment

I’m talking about the part when Tirian, Eustace, and the rest of their friends reach the garden at the heart of the country. Aslan soon meets them there, and the first one he talks to isn’t Peter, Lucy, Edmund, or any of the humans. He first approaches Puzzle, the donkey who was shamefully tricked into impersonating the great lion and accidentally bringing about the end of Narnia.

Aslan says two things to Puzzle that are never explicitly stated in the book. All we see are the results of his words. The first thing he says make Puzzle’s ears go down in shame, and second thing he says make Puzzle’s ears go up in surprise. You can listen to that part of The Last Battle in this audiobook.

What I Think Aslan Said

Here is my best guess about what the great lion said to the donkey. First, he said:

“So, you’re the one who impersonated me.”

Then, seeing the humble donkey sinking into sadness, Aslan offered this wise invitation:

“How would you like to follow me, instead?”

That gave Puzzle hope that his sins can be forgiven.

What This Means for Us

The reason I think Aslan told Puzzle something to the effect of these words is because he sees everyone’s heart, and he knows exactly what everyone needs to hear to make improvements and grow closer to him. Puzzle made many mistakes in trusting his abusive ape friend Shift. But from the start, he was courageous and desirous to help others. In the future, he just needs to stay close to the right influence to make the most of his talents. Aslan sees him as a faithful follower who was led astray by an evil master.

Since Aslan is a representation of Jesus Christ in The Chronicles of Narnia, I think this interaction between him and the misguided donkey is meant to give all of us hope that we, too, can be forgiven of our own misdeeds. We’re all imperfect and follow the wrong path at times. But if we’re humble and are willing to admit when we’re wrong, we’ll find a mighty hand (or paw) outstretched offering to lead us to greater happiness and peace than we can imagine.

This is the Deja Reviewer bidding you farewell until we meet again.

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