Remember the Titans
If you’ve read many of my posts, you know I like movies. Action, drama, comedy, biographical, documentary, I pretty much like them all. Of course, I’d say I have pretty good taste. Others might say, I’m not particularly discerning. Often the movies are meaningful, other times they are simply entertaining.
I recently realized that there is one movie that I think I’ve seen more than any other. If asked what my favorite movie is, this particular movie hasn’t been the one I’d identify. But each time I’ve watched it, I like it more and more. It may have even risen to the level of my very favorite. If you caught the title of this post, you already know what movie I’m talking about: Remember the Titans. (1)
To be honest I’m a little surprised that Remember the Titans was never nominated for any Academy Awards. For me, I’d definitely put it in the Best Picture category. I guess the critics, and the Academy, don’t agree. So, no Oscars for Remember the Titans. In fact, as I understand it, the movie wasn’t received all that well when it first debuted in 2000. I’m not even sure I saw it when it came out in theatres or if it was later on video or streaming. Over time though, it has become somewhat of a cult classic. And, let me say now, if you haven’t already, see it the next chance you have.
What is it that is so great about this movie in particular? It’s based on the struggles of a high school football team. My favorite sport. That doesn’t hurt. Of course, a great sound track makes it all that much better. More than that though, Remember the Titans deals with the interaction of young men getting to know each other and learning about loyalty and friendship. A “buddy” film, for sure. The movie also puts a spotlight on race relations during desegregation in the early 1970’s. The backdrop doesn’t really matter, we see the evil in the heart of man. And, perhaps more important, that hatred can be overcome.
Remember the Titans is readily available. I have watched multiple times on airline flights. My wife will often look over and say, “Are you watching that movie again?” Yes, again and again, I’ve watched. And every time I’ve watched, I’m stunned. Not by the football, or the music, or the story of friendship, as great as they are. I’m stunned by the hatred that people have for each other because of the color of their skin. Call me naïve, I have just never understood it.
I have some memory of this time in our history. I was a young child. I have images, flashes of news clips, but I can’t understand the feelings. Some would say things have changed, and they have, but for some there is still hatred, judgement, distrust. And not just because of race, but national origin, cultural differences, sex, even political positions. We, because of the evil in our hearts, find reasons to hate each other.
I know, I know, hate is a strong word. But, when we don’t love each other, in some sense, aren’t we hating. Jesus had strong words in this area, “..I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell” (Mat 5:22).
We may never say it, we might not even admit it to ourselves, but when we look deep inside, we may have some level of hatred in our hearts for others. This is not to say that we always have to agree. But if we are to shine a light on the world as Jesus tells us to, we must learn to love first. Yes, even when we are different. Even when we disagree. And perhaps this is the indicator of where our heart is. What is our first reaction to those who are different than we are? How do we respond to those who hold differing views or have different backgrounds? Do we lead with anger? Or, is our first reaction to love and respect those who are created in God’s image, just as we are. (See Gen 1:26-27).
James teaches, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be” (Jms 3:9-10). Let me say it again, “this should not be.”
It very well may be that “I’m preaching to the choir” as they say. But isn’t it worth taking a second look? Asking ourselves if any hatred remains in our hearts? If so, pray with me that the Holy Spirit removes every bit of bitterness and arrogance. May He eradicate it entirely. Because, at least for us who believe, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Gal 3:28).
If you’ve seen Remember the Titans, you know the story. If you haven’t, I don’t want to spoil all the details, but I’ll share one final and powerful moment near the end of the movie. A primary character, Gerry Bertier, says to his friend, Julius Campbell, “I'll tell you what, though. Um, when all this is over... me and you are gonna move out to the same neighborhood together. OK? And, um... and we'll get old, and we'll get fat. And there ain't gonna be all this black-white between us.”
Sadly, the day that hatred is eliminated all together won’t come until Jesus returns. Until then, we who believe can live with love for all people setting the example for the world.