In our society at this time many are facing economic difficulty for the first time. As we look at decreasing bank balances and limited job security there is a creeping sense of hopelessness. What makes this more difficult is that there is not the same sense of perseverance in our society. I don't think I could say we lack courage but what is clear from the reaction to this film is that people are finding that its theme inspires them.
There were two points in the film which stood out for me: the first was when Bertie tries to challenge his brother's behaviour as king, and he is rendered speechless by his brother's taunts; the second is when he listens to the recording Logue made of him on his first visit reading Shakespeare without stammering.
In my opinion my faith is something which percolates throughout all of my life and so as I find inspiration from this film I can also find that there are resonances with my faith. You may not find the same to be true of yourself, or indeed the Holy Spirit may use this account of George VI's struggle to lead you to another destination.
In my journey as a Christian there have been times when I have needed a 'Lionel Logue'; someone to remind me that I should hold unto hope; someone to show me a vision of my future not constrained by the past. The life of the Christ-follower is not always easy and it calls for perseverance! Again and again as Jesus speaks to the seven churches in his letters to the churches in the book of Revelation Jesus reminds them of the importance of perseverance. It is an important message for our community. We travel together with Jesus and in the journey we find that we are changing to become more like him. We are called to be courageous on the journey and we are called to travel hopefully.
As I look at the church (of which I am a part) I see a group of people who are journeying with Jesus. We are not all that we should be, nor indeed will be, but we are called to persevere so that we may become what we might be. As a parish and as a diocese we have the vision statement: Transforming Community; Radiating Christ. This vision creates a picture of what the church can be like, and we hope will be like, let us then run with perseverance to take hold of it.
I hope that you will go to see the film if you haven't already. You may go, watch, and enjoy and your engagement stop there; but maybe you could pray that you might hear God. That it will not only be an account of King George VI who deserved to be heard but also of a Heavenly King whom you need to hear.
