“He gave them power to kick out the evil spirits and to tenderly care for the bruised and hurt lives.” (Matthew 10:21 MSG)
Yesterday, I watched “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” with my two teenagers. For a PG movie, it was kind of dark. My nearly grown children were taken aback by a kids program that addressed heavy issues like divorce, anger and death. I wasn’t surprised because I had grown up watching Mister Rogers take on tough topics every day. He didn’t pretend the neighborhood was beautiful, he worked hard to make it beautiful. He helped children cope with big feelings in appropriate ways.
We walked out to the theater and my daughter commented, “That movie wasn’t really about Mister Rogers, it was about Lloyd Vogel.” I was quick to respond, “That was Mister Rogers. His show was never about him, it was always about his neighbors. It was always about you.”
I know Mister Rogers was a christian. I’ve read many books about both his public and private life. Fascinatingly enough, the two were congruent, a stunt that very few of us can pull off. I know that he prayed daily for his concerns by name. I know that he swam each morning and played the piano to deal with the anger and pain he still felt. I know he wore his infamous red sweater because his mom made it and wearing it each program was a little nod to her. I know that he took his hard childhood and somehow allowed that experience shape his life and work in a way that had a positive impact on millions of children. His patience and truth, coupled with copious compassion, impressed my childhood heart and still inspires my full-sized soul.
I have wondered if Mister Rogers was Spirit-filled. He seemed to be greatly empowered to “care for the bruised and hurt lives.” He possessed great self-control, gentleness, kindness, patience and love in droves.
“And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses…” (Acts 1:8 MSG)
Other translations speak of the power we receive when the Holy Spirit makes His home in us: power for witnessing. Yes, power to speak the name of Jesus but also power to live the life of Jesus: truthfully, compassionately, consistently.
My husband point it out, how Mister Rogers broke the fourth wall. He included us, the viewer, in every conversation, every lesson and every experience. He was careful to ask what we thought, what we learned and how we felt.
Our God broke the fourth wall as well, when He sent His Son to live with us, speak to us, die for us, and ultimately take up residence in us. We require His power to live the extraordinary lives He’s created for us and called us to. Our divine directive? Sharing our Savior with anyone that will watch or listen.
Lord, we realize anew our desperate need for Your Spirit. We cannot live powerful lives apart from you. We cannot speak healing or truth with any kind of consistency in our own strength. Thank You for realizing our need and sending Your Spirit. May we receive You in fullness today. Amen.