I like Transformers Prime, in fact, it’s the only T.V. show we’ve watched as a family these last many months. Why the attraction? Prime serves as a great reminder to me of the ultimate story that I love and am shaping my life around. The good news of Jesus Christ is never mentioned a single time in all 3 seasons or in the feature-length grand finale, but it is everywhere present. Starting with Optimus we come to see Jesus. Optimus is patient and kind, he is the one who wants to bring peace. He isn’t filled with hatred for “the bad guys” Instead he challenges Decepticons everywhere to “repent” and “believe”. He wants the cons to give up their quest for power and control, to stop their lifestyles of deceit and self-absorption. For their joy, he longs for them to embrace a new life, characterized by sacrifice and love. Though regularly rebuffed Prime never gives up, he continues to love his enemies even though they regularly try to snuff out his spark. The Con’s are bent on chaos and destruction, however, so Optimus must battle tirelessly the evil threat. He does so with courage and bravery never considering himself above others. In the end, as a willing sacrifice, Optimus gives up his life so that the world might be saved.
The Autobots under his command are like the disciples of Jesus. They are rough around the edges. They argue, complain, and make foolish choices. Often attitudes of pride, revenge, and hatred surge up in these all too human robots causing plenty of problems. Prime both gently and firmly teaches them the way of grace and over the course of time, they grow in their faith. Their belief system is both counterintuitive and counter-cultural. You see, the Autobots are badly outnumbered and always on the edge of extinction, but yet over and over again Prime extends grace and mercy to their mortal enemies. — Shouldn’t he kill Con’s to survive? Prime and his Autobots regularly stand in harm’s way to protect lowly humans because of love and commitment to them. — Shouldn’t weaker creatures be sacrificed to ensure the survival of the fittest? Not according to Prime, there is a better story to believe than just the natural course of things. I love being a Christian because I think it’s the better story. It’s the truest love story there is. Transformers Prime reflects this story so well and that is why I give it a two thumbs up!
