A Love Story

This afternoon I saw a screening of "The Nativity Story." The film will appear in theaters December 1. Apart from the wise men arriving at the stable in Bethlehem, the film stuck very closely to the biblical account. New Line Cinemas went out of its way, casting relative unknowns from all over the world to play the characters of Luke 1 and 2. Without the distractions found in many biblical films — British accents, fair-skinned/blue-eyed actors, famous voiceovers — I was transported into the story.

What I found most compelling about the film was how it developed the humanity of Mary and Joseph. It considered Mary's disappointment in an arranged marriage and Joseph's heartache at learning his betrothed had been unfaithful. It followed the couple's journey from respect to trust — and ultimately love — as they united in the daunting task of raising the Son of God. I was moved by the story of two ordinary individuals who made extraordinary sacrifices.

"The Nativity Story" will be a highlight of this holiday movie season. Pray that it will touch many hearts. "Everyone has a gift," the shepherd says. This film will remind you of yours.