You know how there are movies that you want to see, but you aren't sure if it will be worth it to pay money for curiosity's sake? After much interest, I finally was able to watch The Nativity Story, which tells the story from the point when an angel visits Mary to bring her the news that she is with child to Jesus' birth. It does assume some of the character's feelings, but they were not too extreme and probably safe assumptions. For example, Mary and Joseph share that they both fear what lies ahead for them carrying this child, but, yet, the honor that they feel is obvious. What I really liked most about the movie were a lot of the culture aspects that you have to study beyond The Bible to know. To see a very pregnant woman on a donkey was painful! However, the traveling to Bethlehem had to have been a difficult journey for Mary. Also, the wisemen journeying and the king's quest for full power were connected in the story too.
I would definitely recommend this as a good watch and a sweet reminder of how our Savior came to us. He lowered himself to be a human, and when he came, all who heard of him either feared him or came to worship him.
I saw it when it first came out. It was nice to see
ReplyDeleteI am feeling bad, because I don't think I have ever commented before! But, I do read and enjoy your blog. I have actually thought of you several times in the past few days, as my son has discovered the Wiggles. I am sure you have already heard about this, but just in case, there is an episode called Wiggle Bay and there is a mermaid named Magdalena! It made me smile and think of your sweet girl.
ReplyDeleteI, too, loved this movie! Interestingly, one of my all -time favorite movies also stars this sweet actress. She won an Oscar for her role in "Whale Rider".
ReplyDeleteI hope you have time to find and watch it. The story is about a New Zealand tribe waiting for a "savior". I found a tremendous amount of symbolism in it. Would love to talk about it with you Julie if/when you have the opportunity to watch it.
You are correct in saying how important understanding the culture of the day is for us to really "get" it. To be unmarried and pregnant in that day was scandalous and both Mary and Joseph had to trust God totally to be able to face the community. And what joy and what horrible sorrow Mary faced. One of my favorite verses is Mary's reply to the angel, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." Luke 1:38
Enjoying your blog very much, Julie!!!
I saw this when it first came out. I was so stressed that year and Christmas was so miserable. When I saw this I was blessed beyond words and realized the true meaning of the season once again. It has a profound impact on me. We have the dvd ans watch it every year.
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