Change Your Family Tree – Be a McFly

Each Christmas, the church I attend produces a musical comedy/drama to tell the story of how Jesus Christ came to be born into this world. These productions are written and directed by our worship leader who develops each year’s theme around a particular movie title or television show. Over the years, we’ve run the gamut, from “A Star Trek Christmas” to “Castaway” to “O Christmas, Where Art Thou?” Yes, I know, it’s interesting – you would just have to see it to understand. This year I am fortunate enough to play a supporting role as George McFly in “A Back to the Future Christmas.”

Of course, I go through a personal life transformation in the play where my character’s persona changes as the events of time are altered. My wife Lorraine accidentally sets off one of Doc Brown’s experimental time-vortex coffee machines he had left in the care of Marty and Jennifer. In our play, my change was no fault of my own. It was much different, however, in Back to the Future, Part I.

George McFly the Mess

In the year 1985, George’s life is a mess. His character is a spineless, nerdy wimp of a man who has succeeded at little in life. George shows no emotional connection with his wife Lorraine or his three children, and his supervisor at work, Biff Tannen, easily intimidates him. In fact, as the movie progresses back in time to 1955, we learn that Biff has been bullying George since high school. Biff only passed high school and advances through life by forcing George into doing all his work for him.

Yes, George lacks courage but he loves science fiction. In fact, in high school he is writing a novel about space aliens coming to earth from other planets. So he has imagination, creativity and initiative to begin projects but no belief his life has value. He has no confidence in his ability to accomplish anything. How could he? Life had literally beaten him up.

Until one night when Darth Vader from the planet Vulcan shows up in George’s bedroom and, through his walk-man headphones, blares Van Halen into George’s ears as he sleeps. (This is actually George’s son Marty who has gone back in time and is in disguise.) He commands George to take Lorraine to the “Enchantment Under the Sea” dance. If he doesn’t then Darth would melt his brain. Incentive enough, especially for a science fiction nut.

George McFly the Hero

There was just one problem – well, let me rephrase that – there were many problems in the movie. But the one George would have to confront was within himself.

He would be forced with a decision – in a moment’s notice – to turn away as a coward again or stand against Biff, the bully who had controlled his life.

The scene is dramatic as seen below:

Risking It All to Take Down the Bully

I’ve written previously about the “I’ve Had It Moment” we all face at some point in our life. It’s a moment of stress and pain, but it is also a moment of courage when we stand our ground against a struggle and say, “That’s enough! No more! I’m going to do whatever it takes to change.” George faced that moment and his action changed his family tree.

So, what’s the take away for us?

Is there a financial hurdle you need to address so future generations of your family will experience prosperity?

Is there a work related problem that has you crippled, unable to move forward?

What about resolving that personal issue that might help break a generational trend of alcoholism, abuse, or poverty?

Is there a spiritual struggle keeping you from experiencing the joy of an abundant life?

What’s the bully in your life you need to stare down and take a swing at?

Answer a Question or Leave a Comment Below: What is the risk you need to take? What is facing you that you are afraid to confront? How might your life change like George McFly if you were able to take down the bully that has control over you?