In C. S. Lewis’ classic children’s book, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, there is a large lion named Aslan, who roams around the edges of the story, appearing at strategic moments to save four lost children from danger and to guide them safely home. Hearing about him for the first time from a couple of friendly beavers, the children have their doubts about whether they should meet him.

“Is he—quite safe?” asks one of the girls. “I shall feel rather nervous about a meeting a lion.”

“That you will, dearie, and no mistake,” said Mrs. Beaver, “if there’s anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking together, they’re either braver than most or else just plain silly.”

“Then he isn’t safe?” said Lucy.

“Safe?” said Mr. Beaver. “Don’t you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? Of course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”

It is a statement of faith that we could affirm on any given Sunday. God is not safe. God is sovereign, which means that God can be somewhat frightening, because, as creatures, we have no control over the Creator. God does not ask our advice before acting. God is not a genie or a good luck charm. God is entirely beyond our abilities to manipulate or impress.

However, while there is plenty to fear, there is also plenty to trust. The same God who does not ever break promises can be counted on to keep creating light out of darkness, order out of chaos, and giving breath to our dusty, dry bones. We may not always approve of God’s methods, but fortunately our approval is not required. God will come to our rescue—not because of how we behave, and not even because of what we believe—but because we belong to God.

Is God safe? Of course not—at least not in the sense of being predictable, or tame, or domesticated. But as Mr. Beaver put it, “He is good. He’s the King, I tell you.”