The Visitor

[WV]

Just finished watching 'The Visitor' for the second time and was struck by how well it demonstrates the principles of mission: a small act of kindness is reciprocated and breaks down the barriers between three very unlikely friends. Eventually, it is a huge act of generosity on the behalf of Walter, in paying for an immigration lawyer, that  wins over even the reticent Zainab and proves to her that Walter is genuine.

There are so many parallels in this film that speak of the attitude of mission: putting aside presumptions and asumptions, being willing to engage with people as indiviuals and learn their story.

I heard Walter say 'I have taught the same subject for twenty years and it means nothing to me' and wondered how many Christians live in that same bubble of apathy; knowing all there is to know about the Bible, evangelism, mission wahtever, but never really engaging with it.

As Walter explains his area of 'expertise', Tariq says, 'That's us: Senegal and Syria', but it is Tariq who teaches Walter and helps him to find meaning to life.

I'd love to hear what others think. if you haven't seen it yet: The Visitor, a film by Tom McCArthy (how ironic!) starring Richard Jenkins