December 22, 2006 8:34 AM
The Nativity Story - Part 2
I wrote my brief review last night before I went to bed. But this morning my mind is so filled with beautiful images - and I don't mean beautiful in a sappy Christianese way, but beautifully realistic and thought-provoking - I can't think of a more fitting way to begin the weekend before Christmas.
I suggest you drop any plans standing in the way of taking your kids to see The Nativity Story. If a grown-up woman can find so much inspiration and grounding in the proper spirit of Christmas from a movie, imagine what it will do for your kids.
They say a picture says a thousand words, but a movie can say a million. There were so many things I loved about the movie - the way people were always busy doing things. Everyone had to work so hard and it was just accepted that work was a part of life. The movie was very realistic about this.
I loved the portrayal of the verbal transmission of scripture. Without written words, the prophecies had to be passed down through memorization by children. And there were lots of Jewish traditions that made the movie a rich experience.
One commenter noted the character of Joseph. It was a memorable portrayal. And the relationship between Elizabeth (amazing actress) and Mary was portrayed with so much depth.
I think when we hear a story many times we think we know it. But the truth is, there are layers and layers of understanding. The Nativity Story will not only help your kids grasp the full significance of the miracle of our Savior's birth, but it will give you a renewed appreciation for the human struggles and sacrifce surrounding it.
So do drop everything and go see it.
And don't feel bad about what you give up to do it. My own Christmas cards/letters/photos/address book are still sitting on my dining room table. Obviously my list won't get their cards before Christmas. They will be late - and that's okay. There's been a few years in the past when I never got around to sending them and sent an Easter update instead.
Traditions should serve to keep our families bonded, but we should not be slaves to traditions. However, The Nativity Story is one worthy tradition you might want to add to your family's Christmas celebration.
Posted in Christmas, Movies | Permalink
