Sir Gibbie is much more than an enjoyable summer read; it is nourishment for the soul and inspiration to godliness. It is filled with adventure, rich characters, and beautiful descriptions of the Scottish highlands of a century ago. The backbone of the novel, though, is its powerful Christian themes of sacrifice, service, purity of heart, and Christ-like love. Without being preachy or guilt-inducing, Sir Gibbie teaches important lessons from the school of Christian discipleship.
The plot follows Gilbert Galbraith, Gibbie, a destitute Scottish orphan unable to speak. Gibbie’s life is marked by harsh living conditions and encounters with harsh individuals. He is frequently punished by those who misunderstand his kindnesses or deplore his low condition. Like his Master he is despised and rejected by men. Yet, Gibbie never sees himself as a victim; his compassionate, indomitable spirit returns every evil with love. Where many would turn bitter at God or humanity, his circumstances never dictate Gibbie’s impulse to love others. He does so without prompting or in expectation of repayment.
These illustrations of Christian living challenge the prevailing values of our day. Even within the church we can forget that the call to love our enemies and turn the other cheek is really intended to be obeyed. Gibbie’s antagonists often expose the pride, fear, ignorance, and selfishness in our own hearts, as they respond with the wisdom of the world. And Gibbie continues to disarm them (and us) with his counter-cultural personification of the gospel.
This novel is a great introduction to George Macdonald, one of the most creative and gifted authors of Christian fiction. His genius inspired C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, G.K. Chesterton and others. C. S. Lewis wrote of George Macdonald, "I know hardly any other writer who seems to be closer, or more continually close, to the Spirit of Christ Himself!"
Sir Gibbie can be found in many editions. The original 1879 version is lengthy and made challenging by the Northern Scots dialect found in the dialogue. There are a few adaptations that are worthy of reading, including one for young readers. Young or old will enjoy and be challenged by this classic story.
