Read Psalm 56:3-4

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12 NLT).

“Night of the Living Dead” is a seminal horror film that delves deeply into the themes of trust and the unknown enemy. As the characters face the terrifying threat of the undead, their inability to trust one another ultimately leads to their demise. This lack of trust, which we might call “undead prejudice,” is exacerbated by racial tensions, as seen in the tragic ending where Ben, a black man, is mistaken for a zombie and shot by white law officers. This reflects a broader societal issue where racial division and fear of the unknown can lead to devastating consequences.

In the film, the characters’ mistrust and fear of the unknown enemy—the zombies—mirror our own struggles with fear and prejudice. The zombies, representing an unknown and pervasive threat, cause the characters to turn on each other rather than unite against a common enemy. This “undead prejudice” is poignantly illustrated in the relationship between Ben and Harry Cooper. Harry’s refusal to cooperate with Ben, motivated by fear and possibly racial prejudice, ultimately leads to the group’s downfall. Had they trusted each other and worked together, their chances of survival would have been significantly higher.

The Bible addresses the issue of fear and trust extensively. Psalm 56:3-4 encourages us to trust in God when we are afraid: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” This verse reminds us that our trust should be in God, who is our ultimate protector and guide, rather than in our own understanding or in the flawed judgments of others.

Ephesians 6:12 further emphasizes that our true struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. This calls us to recognize that the real enemy is not always visible or tangible, but often lies in the spiritual realm. By understanding this, we can better navigate our fears and prejudices, and place our trust in God to guide us through the unknown.

The racial undertones in “Night of the Living Dead” also highlight the destructive power of prejudice and mistrust. Ben’s tragic death at the hands of the white law officers, who mistake him for a zombie, underscores the fatal consequences of racial division and fear. This scene is a powerful commentary on the racial tensions of the 1960s, when the film was made, and remains relevant today. It serves as a stark reminder that fear and prejudice—our own forms of “undead prejudice”—can lead to unjust and tragic outcomes.

In our own lives, we often face unknown enemies—whether they are personal fears, societal issues, or spiritual battles. Trusting in God means believing that He is in control, even when we face the unknown. It also means striving to overcome our prejudices and fears, and to see others as God sees them. By trusting in God and working together, we can overcome the “undead prejudice” in our lives and build a more just and loving community.

The film’s ending, where Ben is shot by the “rescue posse,” is a grim reminder of the consequences of mistrust and prejudice. It challenges us to reflect on our own biases and to seek God’s guidance in overcoming them. As believers, we are called to trust in God and to love one another, regardless of our differences. This trust in God and love for others can help us navigate the unknown and build a more united and compassionate world, free from the “undead prejudice” that divides us.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Trust in God helps us overcome fear and see others through His eyes.

PRAYER
Lord, help us to trust in You and to overcome our fears and prejudices. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.