This weekend, we begin a new worship series called, “Life, Death, and Disney.” In this series, we’ll take a look at how four different Disney movies deal with issues of life and death, and then make some Biblical, theological, and spiritual connections to these ideas. I am really looking forward to this series! I think it is going to be a lot of fun!
The first movie we’ll think about is “Coco,” a 2017 movie that won academy awards for Best Animated Feature and Best Song. The story centers on the Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos, and follows the main character Miguel as he pursues his dream of becoming a musician in a family where any and all music is strictly forbidden.
The role of memory plays a big part in the story of “Coco.” Dia de los Muertos is a holiday in which families remember ancestors who have died. In contrast, Miguel’s family has chosen not to remember the role music once played in their lives. This choice, made generations earlier, has a direct impact in their present lives, and Miguel’s task is to restore the memory of music in his family, which will free him to pursue his dream. The song that plays a big role in the movie is titled, “Remember Me.”
Frequently in Scripture, the people of God pause to remember their story.
One such place is in the prophet Micah, in the sixth chapter. In this case, the prophet issues a call to remember the story as a warning to the people. It is as if he is saying, “How can you all be acting this way!? Don’t you remember what God has done for you and for the generations before you!?”
In our liturgy (our common life), one of the most meaningful ways that we remember the story is around the table of Holy Communion. The words of Jesus ask us to “do this in remembrance” of him. This weekend we will celebrate the sacrament together. And we will remember.
If you haven’t seen “Coco,” no worries. The service will still be meaningful. AND if you want to make a point to watch the movie sometime this week, that would be great!
I’ll see y’all in church!
