The movie takes some liberties with the script, but for the most part is faithful to the text. It is an inspiring rendition of the story that is so familiar and core to Christians!
Through many views of this film, I have come to love the development of Mary and Joseph's relationship.
For those who are familiar, you will remember that Mary is taken quite by surprise when her father calls her in to announce that she is now betrothed to Joseph. She openly wonders why her family would marry her to a man that she doesn't know or love.
However, their relationship begins to change after the angel visits Joseph. He assures her that he will stay with her and be a father to her son. This is the friendship phase of their relationship. A seed of trust has been established. As they leave the village of Nazareth, he places her on the donkey and jokes with her as they begin their journey. Later, he provides fish for their meal. Then, he shares their meager food with the donkey to keep it strong for the arduous trip ahead.
As their biblical story is portrayed, we observe five touches and a look that chronicle the gradual development of an intimate, loving relationship. Let's observe them as they occur in the movie:
TOUCH 1
Joseph and Mary are passing through an area that is filled with many vendors. Joseph leads her and the donkey as they walk past a prophet speaking of a coming King. Then they have a brief encounter with a woman who gives Mary a pastry and predicts that she carries the child in a manner that hints it will be a boy. At that moment, for the first time, Mary reaches out and deliberately takes Joseph's hand. To me, it seems to symbolize a willful and deliberate submission to a man she is learning to trust!
TOUCH 2
Joseph is leading Mary - on the donkey - across a fast-moving stream. The donkey is spooked by a snake and throws her into the water. Joseph grabs the snake and throws it far away; then he rescues Mary from sweeping downstream with a strong grip of her hand and a secure carrying her to safety. A big part of a husband's role is to protect his wife and family! She can feel secure when she is with Joseph. He is strong and is committed to protecting her!
TOUCH 3
Shortly after the water scene, they are resting beside the stream. Joseph is so weary that he falls asleep on the rocks. Mary slowly and carefully removes his sandals and uses a cloth to bathe and minister to the terrible condition of his feet. She has been riding the donkey much of the journey, but Joseph has been walking! This act of compassion portrays a sacrificial developing love for this man who has clearly expressed his love for her and his devotion to her and her child!
A LOOK
As they move through the crowded streets of Jerusalem, they are closely surrounded by vendors again. A man positions himself to pick their sack of money from the saddlebag. Joseph grabs his hand firmly and with a penetrating look, informs him: "What comes with us, stays with us!"
Suddenly, realizing that Joseph had been vigilant while she was distracted, she looks at him with deep admiration! According to Willard F. Harley Jr.'s research (HIS NEEDS, HER NEEDS), admiration is one of a man's highest needs in a marriage relationship!
TOUCH 4
As they arrive in Bethlehem, Joseph seeks desperately for a place for them to settle. The baby is pushing and Mary is crying out to God for help. They are pointed to a cave filled with sheep. Quickly, Joseph arranges a bed for Mary. Then, positioned to deliver the baby, he gently touches Mary's face, saying, "I'm sorry." as he disrobes her to deliver the baby. He has provided everything they need and now holds the baby Jesus up with tears and joyful laughter. Their relationship has now become intimate - as it should. She has revealed her self to him as she will not do for any other man! And he has proven himself to be a reliable provider and protector!
TOUCH 5
As a final expression of genuine love, Mary reaches out and touches Joseph's face, after which he kisses her hands! They have attained a fulness of trust and companionship now. They have shared things that no one else could fully understand. They have shared their deepest fears and also their dreams. Joseph has clearly revealed that he has a close walk with God that allows him to hear God's voice and then obey! They are fully ready now to embark on their marriage with the full understanding that God has smiled on their relationship and will bless their comings and goings!
Perhaps if you watch the movie again, you will also see the development of this intimacy.
It is a lovely and powerful expression of what God desires for every marriage. It can't be rushed. These touches can't be commanded. Time itself does not bring this kind of relationship. It is the result of a growing, maturing, sharing and sacrificial connection. Each reaches out to the other in genuine caring. Sacrifices are made. History is shared. Dreams for the future are discussed. Looking at things and situations from a common view brings us together.
And above it all is God's guiding and blessing hand!
No comments:
Post a Comment