The Hess family, having recently lost their mother in an auto accident, is once again faced with fear and who to turn to during these times of tragedy. Ever since the loss of his wife, Graham (Mel Gibson) doubts whether there is a God at all. Regardless, his family continues to look to him for comfort or a glimpse of hope in this dire situation.
In this clip, the Hess Family has obviously been through a lot. Now they fear a possible end to life as they know it. During this time of tragedy and fear, they are desperate for hope. Mel Gibson’s character, Graham, tells it the way he sees it. He gives two options: an option of hope—that God might be here for us during tough times, and an option of despair—we’re alone in our tragedy.
As you watched this clip, it might have caused you to question which of these groups you float toward. When tragedy strikes, do you have any hope? Or do you feel alone? It’s something to think about.
- Is it possible that things happen for a reason?
When bad things happen, we can bring it on ourselves. But sometimes we are hurt by the actions of others that we have no control over. And sometimes, they happen for no reason we can see! Regardless what reason these things happen, does that mean that God is not God?
- Is God still God, even in the bad times?
- Why do we despair?
- Does despair serve a purpose or is it always bad?
(Thanks to "The Source for Youth Ministry" for this topic!)
