Small Packages: Unlikely Heroes

Many times it seems that good things come from the least expected places. It may be because good things become even greater when we are not looking for them. Or perhaps it is when we are not focused on ourselves when those good things become obvious. The phrase "good things come in small packages" is pretty well known. Well, this seems to be the theme of Simon Birch. Simon Birch is a physically underdeveloped boy who is a reliable friend who endures ridicule from others and shame from his parents, and also must deal with the death of his best friend's mother, who is like a mother to him. Throughout this story Simon wrestles with his faith openly and causes others to do the same.

In a freak accident, Simon's best friend Joe's mother is killed. While Simon blames himself for the death, Joe struggles with who he is and finding out who his father is. Through the circumstances of his life of physical differences and his coping with Joe's mother's death, he searches for his purpose in life, and comes to several conclusions throughout the movie. He finds God's purpose for his being small, the purpose of his friend's death, and even the purpose of his challenging of authority. Because of Simon, however, everyone around him also find their purpose as well. Have you encountered struggles, life circumstances, or challenges that have made you question your purpose in life? Do you know someone who encourages you to think about these things and their part in the greater aspect of yours and other people's lives?

Simon is born prematurely and is physically much smaller than the other kids his age. Eventually Simon comes to a conclusion that he is small for a reason that will show itself in time, and it eventually does with Simon being a great life-saving hero. He also finds a purpose in the death of Joe's mother, which reveals itself in Joe discovering who his father is. Take a look at the challenges you have faced in your life so far. Consider how you react to those things affects others and the circumstances you are in.

Simon challenges the local minister, asking him difficult questions, but also accepting his lot in life and its greater purpose. During church he speaks our and poses questions to the preacher during his sermon. He is berated by the Sunday school teacher for asking hard questions. He is called into the minister's office to talk about these questions about God. Through all these things it causes people to think more deeply about their faith and to be more genuine with how they approach it. Eventually the person that is shunned by everyone is revealed to be the hero. Do you know someone who challenges you to be more open with your faith, not only in church but with all aspects of your life? If you're not religious, do you know someone who is who challenges you to think about spiritual things in a genuine way?

Read Phillipians 4:8