This is the Easter weekend, when Christians around the world lament the death and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. As well, the Jewish are currently participating in Passover, and those of the Islamic faith are practicing Ramadan. It is truly one of the most holy and religious times of the year.
This week, there will be no talk of bluegrass, nor of music in general. I just wanted to reflect on this time of year. It was one of my mother’s favorite times of the year, in that the family would be getting together at her house to celebrate. As she passed on in January, it is my first Easter without her. Yes, I have been feeling depressed a bit, but I have found solace in an unusual way.
There is a program called The Chosen, which has been streaming on a few services over the past few years, and promised to continue for a total of seven seasons of programming. It is the story of Jesus of Nazareth, from his birth to his death on the cross and his resurrection from the dead. However, unlike many previous films and television mini-series telling the story of the Messiah, this series expands on a number of the tales told in the Bible. It does not stray away from any message in the Book, but instead views the same story from a number of different viewpoints.
A great example is the story of Jesus and the woman at the well (John 4:1-29). While the scene covers all of what is described in the Bible, we also see a bit of why the woman has acted the way she has with her multiple husbands. In a way, it is very similar to what a Catholic does when confessing sins to a priest. It is so moving to watch. The woman is a Samaritan, which does not associate with Jews (and is a recurring theme in the series), yet as the scene proceeds, we see how prejudicial barriers are broken down when communication is forthcoming.
There are so many scenes tike this that are human reactions to what God and Jesus calls upon us. The stress of Simon Peter choosing to leave his wife and family to follow Jesus. The abrupt way that Matthew leaves his comfortable lifestyle to become a disciple. Even the way that the story of the Good Samaritan is woven into the storyline. The production is remarkable, and Jonathan Roumie’s portrayal of Jesus is beyond amazing.
I will get back to talking music next week. I ask now that if you are in doubt of any thing, be it personal, religious, or moralistic, please spend some binge-watching time to watch The Chosen.
Chew on it and comment. Happy Easter!
Luegra 