Christmas Movie Suggestion

The Nativity Story

I admit it – I absolutely love Christmas movies. Everything from the original Grinch cartoon to It’s Wonderful Life and even, A Christmas Story. I know, I know. These have nothing to do with the real meaning of Christmas. To be fair, neither do Christmas cookies, mistletoe or snowflakes, some of our traditions are just for fun.

But there is one movie that (almost) perfectly captures the real meaning of Christmas, it’s the 2005 movie titled, The Nativity Story. If you are able, I highly recommend you find a way to watch (or rewatch) it. While there’s not a reindeer or mug of eggnog to be found, there is an extravagant Christmas Present. The writers have found a way to stay true to the Biblical account (Matthew 1 & Luke 2), while adding just enough extra dialog to make the story come to life, even adding a bit of humor along the way.

Recently, as my husband and I rewatched The Nativity Story, I was struck at the calling/gift God gave to Mary and Joseph. And that although they were blessed beyond any other couple, the amount of pain they were forced to endure for their faithful, trusting obedience was immense. It was a reminder to me that faithful obedience to God or even a call He places on our lives, does not ensure an easy ride. In fact, it usually ensures the opposite. So, why do I (maybe you too?) so often fall for the lie that pain or hardship means I am out of His will or that His calling will always lead to earthly blessing/success? As David Wilkerson was quoted as saying, God has called us to obedience, (earthly) success is up to Him.  

Because we love and trust Him, we obey Him. Regardless of the outcome of that obedience.

This Christmas, as we enjoy all the extra trappings that tradition has created, let’s be sure to stop and remember. Remember the sacrificial Gift that was given for us that first Christmas morning, wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.

Lord, enable us to honor You with trusting obedience. Come what may. Thank You for sending Your only Son those two thousand years ago, to be born in a stable and die on a cross –The Spotless Lamb slain before the foundations of the world. For me. For my sin. And three days later, to be raised to life, never to die again. Thank You Precious Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Written by Becky White for the Lord Jesus