Dear Ones,
Last Sunday night was the 94th Annual Academy Awards. It is a night where Hollywood pays homage to itself and heightens the aspirations of those watching. For years, the “Red Carpet” has been one of the highlights. Who is wearing what made by whom? Setting an aesthetic to which none of us could never live up to.
I have friends who watch every film, follow the trends, and social media post “play-by-play” commentaries on the event. In the past, I was one of these people who was entranced and enthralled by the “glitz and glamour,” the aspirations of working in film, and hobnobbing. These days it holds not so much interest. In fact, we didn’t even tune in. When five o’clock Sunday evening came, I was already in my jammies with my head propped up by pillows while I app-skipped through my tablet.
Said tablet also displays pop-ups of “Breaking News: so-and-so wore this, so-and-so won this, so-and-so said this, so-and-so did that….” Of course, the unfortunate Rock-Smith incident blew up the internet and has been part of the social discourse throughout this week. Others, trying not to let that steal the night, focused and created memes about another sweet occurrence, Lady Gaga and Liza Minnelli presenting the Best Picture Award together. With Liza in a wheelchair, Gaga whispered, “I got you” to which Liza responded, “I know.” Indeed, a lovely moment. However, one of the most beautiful moments was Jessica Chastain’s acceptance speech for Best Actress for her portrayal of Tammy Faye Bakker in “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Rso0yrwO2s. Here is a transcript excerpt:
“Right now we are coming out of some difficult times that have been filled with a lot of trauma and isolation. So many people out there feel hopelessness and they feel alone. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. It’s touched many families. It’s touched mine and especially members of the LGBTQ community who oftentimes feel out of place with their peers. We’re faced with discriminatory and bigoted legislation that is sweeping our country with the only goal of further dividing us. There’s violence and hate crimes being perpetuated on innocent civilians all over the world.”
“In times like this, I think of Tammy, and I’m inspired by her radical acts of love. We’ve talked about love a lot tonight. I’m inspired by her compassion. I see it as a guiding principle that leads us forward. It connects us all and the desire that we want to be accepted for who we are, accepted for who we love, and to live a life without the fear of violence or terror.”
“For any of you out there who do in fact feel hopeless or alone, I just want you to know that you are unconditionally loved for the uniqueness that is you.”
Truly a beautiful message and commentary. With all that has gone on and continues to go on, we are invited to be inspired by radical acts of love, to witness brazen acts of beauty. This week, as we move closer to the cross, I will reflect upon John 12:1-8 “The Anointing of Jesus.” This moment also includes the kerfuffle, a conflict between Judas and Jesus, interestingly enough over expensive perfume applied with Mary of Bethany’s hair. Mary has shown an extravagant and intimate love for Jesus. Judas will have none of it. Jesus tells him to chill out.
Where in our lives do we live and commit brazen acts of beauty, and where are we miserly and stingy – withholding grace and love? Something to think about.
I look forward to seeing you in person or in the Zoom room.
Love,
Rev. Michael Cronin
P.S. Thank you, Rev. Michael Vincent and Janet Hollingshead, for being with us last week. Truly a gift!
