I rewatched the film "Shadowlands" last week. It focuses on a portion of C. S. Lewis’ life. The movie reminded me of the author’s incredible contribution to Christian thought in the mid-20th century. According to Lewis’ 1955 memoir, "Surprised by Joy," he was baptized in the church of Ireland as a boy but during adolescence, abandoned his faith. Partially through the influence of close friend and fellow-author J. R. R. Tolkien, Lewis rekindled his faith and became a committed Christian.
Lewis’ faith had an incredible impact upon his work. He wrote numerous Christian clas-sics, including the "Chronicles of Narnia" series. His radio broadcasts about faith during World War II helped him become a respected Christian leader. His ability to defend and clarify Christianity gained him considerable fame.
"Shadowlands" is about Lewis’ relationship with gifted American author, Joy Davidman Gresham. She grew up in a Jewish atheist home and eventually became a Communist before converting to Christianity. As a new believer, Gresham read several of Lewis’ books and wrote to him with questions. A pen pal relationship developed and the two became close friends. According to Lewis’ brother, what initially drew them together was their brilliant minds and uncommon sense of humor. It was not until Gresham separated from her abusive alcoholic husband that she and Lewis finally met when her and her two sons, David and Douglas, visited England.
During her visit, their friendship deepened and, on April 23, 1956, they married in a civil marriage contract so she could continue living in England though they did not live as a married couple.