Read Psalm 34:17-22

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4 NLT)

As a lover of horror films, I find myself drawn to movies that explore the depths of human emotion and the complexities of the human psyche. Folk horror, in particular, captivates me with its blend of ancient rituals, communal traditions, and rural settings. Films like Midsommar often delve into themes of grief, loss, and the search for belonging, making them fertile ground for spiritual reflection.

In Midsommar, we follow the harrowing journey of Dani, a young woman who experiences unimaginable trauma. The film opens with a devastating scene: Dani’s sister, Terri, kills their parents and herself in a tragic act of murder-suicide. This horrific event leaves Dani shattered, grappling with profound grief and a sense of isolation. Her boyfriend, Christian, is emotionally distant and unsupportive, further compounding her feelings of abandonment and despair.

Dani’s suffering is palpable throughout the film. She is haunted by visions of her deceased family and struggles to find solace in a world that seems indifferent to her pain. Her journey to the remote Swedish commune of Hårga, initially intended as a distraction, becomes a crucible of emotional and psychological transformation. The rituals and traditions of the Hårga, though alien and often disturbing, provide Dani with a sense of community and belonging that she desperately craves.

However, it is crucial to recognize that the Hårga community is deeply flawed and morally corrupt from a Christian perspective. Their practices, which include ritualistic violence and manipulation, are far from the teachings of Christ. The Hårga’s sense of community is built on a foundation of control and exploitation, rather than genuine compassion and love. This stark contrast serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of seeking solace in the wrong places.

The irony of Christian’s name in Midsommar is not lost on us. As Dani’s boyfriend, Christian represents a cold, unsupportive presence in her life, failing to provide the comfort and understanding she desperately needs in her grief. This stark contrast between his name and his actions serves as a poignant reminder of how Christians can sometimes fall short in embodying Christ’s love and compassion. Tragically, Dani finds acceptance and a sense of belonging with the pagan Hårga community, despite their ultimately destructive nature. This aspect of the film highlights a crucial truth: when those who claim to follow Christ fail to offer genuine love and support, people may seek healing in potentially harmful places.

Psalm 34:17-22 speaks powerfully to the experience of those who are grieving. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This passage assures us that God is near, even in our darkest moments, and that God hears our cries for help. Dani’s journey in Midsommar mirrors this promise. Despite the horror and chaos around her, she finds a form of healing and acceptance within the Hårga community. The communal rituals, though extreme, emphasize the need for shared experiences and the catharsis that can come from expressing our grief openly.

Interestingly, Dani’s name itself carries significance. It is the feminine form of Daniel, which means “God is my judge.” This connection to the biblical Daniel, who survived the lions’ den, adds another layer to Dani’s character. Like her namesake, Dani endures a harrowing ordeal and emerges transformed, though the nature of that transformation is far more ambiguous and troubling in her case.

Friends, grief is not a journey we must walk alone. Matthew 5:4 tells us, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” This beatitude highlights the promise of comfort and the importance of allowing ourselves to mourn. In Midsommar, the communal rituals, though extreme, emphasize the need for shared experiences and the catharsis that can come from expressing our grief openly. Dani’s transformation into the May Queen symbolizes her acceptance and integration into a new family, providing her with the support and understanding she lacked.

As we navigate our own grief, it is crucial to remember that healing is a process. It involves acknowledging our pain, seeking support, and trusting in God’s promise of comfort and restoration. Romans 12:2 encourages us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, suggesting that through faith and the support of our community, we can find new perspectives and hope even in the midst of sorrow. Dani’s story in Midsommar is a powerful reminder of the importance of community and the transformative power of shared rituals. While the film’s depiction of these rituals is extreme, it underscores a fundamental truth: we are not meant to bear our burdens alone. In times of grief, we can find solace in the presence of God and the support of our faith community. By leaning on one another and embracing the healing process, we can emerge from our darkest moments with renewed strength and hope. This journey of healing and transformation can be seen as our own “Solstice of the Soul,” where we move from the darkest moments into the light of new beginnings.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Grief is a journey, not a destination. Allow yourself to mourn, seek comfort in God’s presence, and trust in the healing process.

PRAYER
Dear God, thank You for being close to us in our times of grief. Help us to feel Your comforting presence and to find healing through Your love and the support of our community. Transform our sorrow into hope and guide us through the process of healing. Amen.

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