Inspiration from Mecha-Ude: Becoming the Hands and Feet of Jesus

In the anime Mecha-Ude: Mechanical Arms, we follow Hikaru, an ordinary student whose life takes an extraordinary turn when he encounters Alma, a sentient mechanical arm. Over the first three episodes, we’re introduced to a world where powerful sentient mecha arms bond with humans and give them incredible abilities. However, it’s not just action-packed battles that drive the story—it’s the emotional and moral dilemmas Hikaru faces that make this show stand out.

In the first episode, Hikaru misses an opportunity to help a pregnant woman on a crowded train. He feels awkward and uncomfortable, and by the time he musters up the courage to offer his seat, it’s too late. This moment stays with him, reflecting the deep guilt we can feel when we let an opportunity to help others slip by. I can relate to Hikaru’s internal struggle—there have been times in my life when social anxiety or awkwardness held me back from reaching out and offering support. But the good news is that, like Hikaru, we have the chance to grow and change.

By the second and third episodes, Hikaru becomes more proactive in protecting his new friends, the sentient mecha-arm Alma, and Aki, a classmate who also serves as a bodyguard. Through Alma’s constant encouragement, Hikaru begins to find the courage he didn’t know he had. Alma reminds Hikaru of his kindness and potential, even when others dismiss him. Hikaru’s transformation  brings to mind 1 Corinthians 12:27, which says, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” As believers, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the world—reaching out to those in need, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Romans 12:13 tells us to “share with the Lord’s people who are in need” and “practice hospitality.” In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus emphasizes the importance of helping those in need, saying, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Hikaru’s journey from hesitating to help a stranger to risking his safety for his friends mirrors this call to action. Like Hikaru, we don’t always feel equipped or confident, but it’s through stepping out—sometimes in our own awkwardness and uncertainty—that we can show Christ’s love to others.

What I found especially touching in Mecha-Ude is Alma’s belief in Hikaru. Alma doesn’t just offer him the physical strength of a mechanical arm; he provides him emotional and spiritual support by affirming Hikaru’s goodness. This reminds me of the role the Holy Spirit plays in my life. In John 14:26, Jesus says, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.” The Holy Spirit gives us the courage to act with kindness, even when we don’t feel brave or capable.

I highly recommend Mecha-Ude: Mechanical Arms. The anime pilot was a passion project of the animator and was unconventionally funded through crowdfunding. The animation quality is incredibly high, and I enjoyed the soundtrack, particularly the opening and ending songs. The anime shows a lot of potential and seems underrated. If you enjoy shows that balance action with both comedy and emotional depth, this hidden gem is definitely worth watching.

Mecha-Ude: Mechanical Arms is a cool, action-packed anime on the surface, but beneath the mecha battles and high-stakes situations, there’s a profound message about stepping out of our own insecurities to help others. Hikaru’s journey is a powerful reminder of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus, even when we feel awkward, unsure, or afraid. Like Hikaru, we can learn to listen to the encouragements we receive—from our friends, from the Holy Spirit, and from the Word of God—and take the next step in faith.