Jean Valjean received a new life and identity, only it hid his old. Things were going well for him, no one knew of his past, he was wealthy and popular. But one day he was confronted with a decision that would change his life once again.
The police had arrested a man believed to be Jean Valjean, yet the real Jean knew it was a false accusation. What should he do? If he were to speak and reveal the truth, he would be condemned (by the court), yet if he were to remain silent, he would be damned (by God). He faced that most serious of choices: a man was accused to be Jean Valjean, the hunted one; if he was condemned, the real Jean Valjean would forever be free of his old life and its tough consequences. Yet, how could he face himself ever again?
Jean Valjean would not be able to allow this poor man to be condemned in his place, and reveals his true identity - forever to be hunted... the beautiful life he had, the second chance, would all be gone. For him what God thought of him was more important than earthly goods, status and well-being. He lays down his life again - but not for the last time. See Les Mis (11) below!
What a beautiful story, what honour and dignity, what honesty and humility! This is ever so rare these days. Jean Valjean would live for others; he would place them before himself and the comforts of life. He gave his life for the wellfare of others. He gave a promise and stuck to it - all the way! Do we live as honourably and selflessly as Jean Valjean? What decisions are we taking under tough circumstances?
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