Read 1 John 3:1-7
ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26 NLT).
In the vibrant world of “The Greatest Showman,” we’re transported to a realm of wonder and spectacle, where P.T. Barnum builds a circus to showcase society’s outcasts and misfits. Among the diverse cast of characters, we witness a powerful narrative of identity, acceptance, and the transformative power of love.
Just as P.T. Barnum’s circus becomes a family for those who find belonging nowhere else, 1 John 3:1-7 reminds us that as believers, we are part of a divine family—a family of God’s beloved children. In the movie, characters like the bearded lady, the acrobat with a disability, and the black trapeze artist face rejection and discrimination in society. Yet within the circus community, they find acceptance, love, and a sense of belonging.
Similarly, as children of God, we may encounter rejection and adversity in the world, but in Him, we find unconditional love and acceptance. The passage from 1 John underscores the depth of God’s love for us, declaring that we are His children, lavished with His love.
John urges us to live in a manner befitting our identity as God’s children, walking in righteousness and rejecting sin. This call to holiness is not a burden but a privilege—a testament to the transformative power of God’s love in our lives. Just as the characters in “The Greatest Showman” are transformed by the love and acceptance they find in the circus community, so too are we transformed by God’s love, becoming more like Him each day.
Let’s delve deeper into the parallels between “The Greatest Showman” and the biblical truths found in 1 John 3:1-7.
In the movie, P.T. Barnum[1], portrayed by Hugh Jackman, is driven by a desire to prove himself and provide for his family. Despite facing ridicule and criticism from society, he dares to dream big and creates a space where individuals from all walks of life can come together and be celebrated for who they are.
Similarly, as children of God, we are called to embrace our identity with boldness and confidence. Regardless of our past failures or present circumstances, we are loved unconditionally by our Heavenly Father. Like P.T. Barnum, who sees the potential and worth in each of his performers, God sees the beauty and value in each of His children.
The characters in “The Greatest Showman” undergo personal transformation as they journey from feeling marginalized and misunderstood to embracing their unique identities and talents. They find belonging and purpose within the circus community, where they are accepted and celebrated for who they are.
Similarly, as believers, we are called to undergo a transformation—a renewing of our minds and hearts as we embrace our identity as children of God. This transformation is made possible by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live lives that reflect the love and character of Christ.
Just as the characters in “The Greatest Showman” find strength and courage in their newfound sense of belonging, so too do we find strength and courage in our identity as children of God. We are no longer slaves to fear or insecurity but are empowered to live boldly and confidently, knowing that we are loved unconditionally by our amazing God.
As we reflect on the themes of identity, acceptance, and transformation found in “The Greatest Showman,” let’s allow them to deepen our understanding of the profound truths contained in 1 John 3:1-7. May we embrace our identity as beloved children of God and live lives that reflect Christ’s love and grace to the world around us.
THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Our identity as children of God shapes how we view ourselves and interact with others. Let’s embrace the truth of God’s love and live confidently in our identity as His beloved children.PRAYER
Heavenly God, thank You for adopting us into Your family and loving us abundantly. Help us live righteously and share Your love. Amen.
[1] It’s important to note that the real-life P.T. Barnum was more complex and nuanced than the movie portrays. He was a controversial figure known for his showmanship and promotion of hoaxes, yet he also championed causes such as abolitionism and women’s suffrage. While the movie takes creative liberties, we can still glean valuable insights from its themes of identity, acceptance, and transformation.
Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.