“Just then some men came, carrying a paralyzed man on a bed. They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; but finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the middle of the crowd in front of Jesus. When he saw their faith, he said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven you.’ Immediately he stood up before them.” Luke 5: 18-20, 25 (NRSV)

“A friend loves at all times.” Proverbs 17:17a (NRSV)

Steel Magnolias are strong women who hold their families together with the glue of love – Christian love. Their faith, friendship and humor while facing all that life throws at them are inspiring to me. This movie has always been a favorite of mine because the women characters are all as different as the colored lights on a Christmas tree. The story line goes from holiday celebrations to weddings, birthdays and burials. Through it all the steel magnolias support each other with their friendship and honesty. Losing a child is one of the toughest experiences to watch. Sally Field’s character’s comment at the cemetery, “I just want to know why, why?” is a question we are all plagued with when we lose a loved one. I should insert a warning here that this movie will bring you to tears.

During the Christmas scene a pregnancy announcement is made to party guests and celebrated by all attending. The close knit group of friends finds out that there is life threatening danger involved to the diabetic daughter of their close friend. Each of the steel magnolias has a distinctly strong personality, and a different way of comforting their friend. Faith in God pops up all through the movie in various humorous and emotional ways. The reason this is a favorite movie of mine is that it inspires me to be a better friend, and to show and share my own Christian faith more.

Jana Easterling 

Prayer

O Lord, the friendships of men and of women are different, but their foundation is to be the same and that is love. Whether by words, deeds or a combination thereof, help us to be better friends to others. This we ask in the name of Him, who is our Best Friend, Jesus Christ. Amen.