Wonder-Woman, the 2017 movie set during World War I, broke a major trend. For years, superhero movies had gone one of two ways. Either they were very tongue in cheek, undercutting serious moments with humor or they were dark and brooding. Think Marvel compared to the recent Batman movies. Patty Jenkins, the director of Wonder-Woman went a different direction. She had a rule on set; “Don’t say cheesy.” Her movie was going to swing for big heartfelt moments so rare in the genre. She would lean into cheesy cliches and trust the movie’s earnestness would keep audiences from cringing. By most accounts, her approach was a major success. The movie was a gem and stands out from the crowd of 2010s superhero movies.
I generally try to take her advice and risk being “cheesy”. I think cheesiness just a cynical term for earnestness, and earnestness is simply honesty. So whether I am being cheesy, earnest, or honest, I can say I had a soul-rejuvenating experience from God in Bible Study this week.
Obrei came home from school feeling ill on Wednesday (finally the students got here instead of me!). She asked if I could “sub” for her at Bible study. I felt like the Holy Spirit was nudging me to go, so I said yes, I could this week. Surprisingly, being a pastor means I spend little time in small groups/Bible studies. That night, I got to experience the joys of Christian study and discussion. I really did leave feeling spiritually rejuvenated.
Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, I am sure a small group is either benefiting from your contributions, or is ready to welcome you in. If you find yourself in the latter group, I cannot recommend our Sunday school classes and midweek group enough.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we celebrate God’s work in the life of the saints who have gone before us!
Blessings,
Pastor Luke