The role of Christ in...
Illustration
The role of Christ in announcing the transforming and redemptive love of God is central in this passage. The Scandinavian film Babette's Feast tells the tale of a small town. Babette comes to work for two dowager sisters in the community, the daughters of the late pastor, who established the town. As in most communities of long acquaintance, many hurts and divisions have occurred over the years. Many members of the church and community are no longer on speaking terms due to these injuries.
Then Babette wins a lottery and asks her employers if she may throw a banquet for the town. Since everyone already knows that she is the best cook in town, they consent. She sends to Paris for the finest of fare and prepares a feast beyond comparison. Unknown to the community, Babette had once been the most celebrated chef in that city. Babette spends practically her entire windfall on the supplies for the repast.
On the night of the banquet, everyone in the community participates, even a nobleman who once was the love interest of one of the daughters. As the affair progresses, even the most alienated guests begin to commune with one another. Gradually the old wounds begin to heal and fellowship is restored, so that the film ends with the participants singing together outside. So grateful is Babette for the welcome the townspeople have afforded her that she sacrifices all in providing them with a communion that opens new possibilities for their life together.
Then Babette wins a lottery and asks her employers if she may throw a banquet for the town. Since everyone already knows that she is the best cook in town, they consent. She sends to Paris for the finest of fare and prepares a feast beyond comparison. Unknown to the community, Babette had once been the most celebrated chef in that city. Babette spends practically her entire windfall on the supplies for the repast.
On the night of the banquet, everyone in the community participates, even a nobleman who once was the love interest of one of the daughters. As the affair progresses, even the most alienated guests begin to commune with one another. Gradually the old wounds begin to heal and fellowship is restored, so that the film ends with the participants singing together outside. So grateful is Babette for the welcome the townspeople have afforded her that she sacrifices all in providing them with a communion that opens new possibilities for their life together.
