The portrayal of Bart Millard’s childhood abuse at the hand of his father breaks the silence many people endure. Today, our society in America is beginning to open up about many issues so people can have courage to seek help.
The only concern I always have is child actors portraying being abused by adults. Although they are acting, I worry it may affect them. I also worry about adult actors being able to do the portrayal.
That said, overall the movie showed a relationship restored in the end. I did like the reality of the confrontation when Bart returned home to face his father. Although Bart was trying to pursue his vocal talent in a Christian band, the pain he endured from his father during his childhood and youth was not forgotten.
When we forgive, we don’t forget the wounds. It can be a long journey. I think about earlier generations who were raised with the idea that you don’t discuss events from the past. It is difficult to find resolution if you don’t know what happened or where to start next.
I believe that although Bart faced rejection by some companies in the music business, he also had to grow as a person before he could lead others to Christ. Once he and his father were able to restore their relationship, Bart was free.
Bart’s father accepted Christ as his savior before dying of cancer. He had hurt his family terribly in previous years. When we’ve been hurt we want the other person to say they are sorry and ask for forgiveness or get what they deserve. We at least want the behavior to stop.
Forgiveness can be a tricky thing to figure out. Others dish out cliches as if they could handle things better when they don’t know what they are talking about. There is hope. With time, supportive loved ones or friends, justice or resources, solutions can be found. Education and conversation are beginning to take place.
God knows how our stories will turn out. He knows our future and our past. One day, like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, all will be made clear to us. In the mean time, we can help each other out on each of our journeys. If you see a friend who is hurting, reach out and get them help if needed. We can all use a friend to lean on from time to time.
