Mary Poppins is a wonderful story that goes beyond the magical flying
nanny. In fact, there are many parallels of the story of Mary Poppins to that
of Jesus! Both were practically perfect in every way, they both performed
works that amazed those around them, and they both taught lessons
through stories and experiences instead of lectures and books. The most
important similarity between the two is the lens through which they view
the world. Each of them came to bring a saving grace...Mary for Mr. Banks
and Jesus for the whole world.
For all who are facing the need for salvation but aren’t receiving it, there is
something standing in the way. Often, it is the stubbornness and pride that
we don’t need saving. That’s when the hammer comes to break us down.
It hurts. It shakes us up and we feel lost for a time. But then, God puts
the pieces back together in a way that is much better than before. This
also happens to the Banks family. They had to endure some challenges
that uprooted their seemingly comfortable routine of life. In the end, their
family was much happier and stronger. That is God’s hand at work.
Recognizing God’s hand in our lives is vital to the path that we are called
to take. Sometimes, He shows up in ways we never could expect, and can
even seem like a hardship rather than an answer to a prayer...kind of like
a nanny that flies in by way of an umbrella and turns the world upside
down! Don’t always expect a voice from heaven or a lightning bolt to
strike. Expect the unexpected and trust that God will work out all things
for your good (Romans 8:28). Remember, it isn’t what He’s doing TO you,
but what He’s doing FOR you.
God’s first institution was the family, and it is still the center of humanity’s
well-being today. George Banks had left this path and tried to make his
own way by following his career path and keeping up with the Joneses.
He resisted Mary’s efforts to change and blamed her for the problems that
he faced. He fought against her actions even though they were leading to
a brighter future. In the end, he rediscovers the “human race” beginning
with his family. As you enjoy the show, consider your family and loved
ones and know that they are gifts from God.
Our time here with St. Antoninus has been an incredible walk of faith and
evidence of what God can do with the incredible talents that a community
of believers can accomplish with God’s hand in the work. We are so blessed
to be a part of it and are thankful to all of the St. Antoninus community for
their faith in God and in this program.
Enjoy the show!
John & Kristie Beasley-Jung