MISSISSIPPI BURNING (1988)

Directed by: Alan Parker
Written by: Chris Gerolmo
Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Starring: Gene Hackman, Willem Dafoe, Frances McDormand
Rated: R

About the film:
When three young civil rights workers disappear in Mississippi during a voter registration drive, a pair of FBI agents with totally differing styles begin an investigation. They learn that they must first sort through the prevalent racial bigotry that exists in the community before they can hope to uncover the truth.

Movie Quote:
“Hatred isn’t something you’re born with. It gets taught.”
Mrs. Pell (Frances McDormand) in Mississippi Burning (1988)

Bible Quote:
“But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness; he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him.”
1 John 2:11 (NIV)

Commentary:
Hatred comes in all forms, whether it is the racial prejudice of which Mrs. Pell is speaking or an animosity towards someone for more personal reasons. What all hatred has in common, however, is the fact that it stands in opposition and contrast to the lessons of Christ.

That comes as no surprise. This world tries to “teach” us many things that we would be better off not learning. God does not give lessons in how to hate. The promotion of such a negative and unprofitable waste of energy can only come from a teacher who does not want us to succeed.

We need not take our lessons from this world. We certainly are not to conform to the world’s way of thinking or behaving. We are blessed to have another teacher – a far better one. We have an instructor whose lessons of love, peace, and joy are designed to fill our hearts and guide our steps.

The darkness which blinds people and keeps them from learning the ways that will lead to a better, more productive and happier life is easy to overcome. It must flee the moment someone turns on a light. In God’s classroom, the lights are never dimmed.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Where does hate come from? What is its connection to fear?
2. What is the proper response to hatred that may be directed towards us?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com