I finally had the opportunity to see the movie “Hidden Figures” and I was blown away. First it’s a great story. I’m not a history buff, but it’s good to go back and see how things were and how much they have changed. Especially being a black man and seeing all of the challenges we face now. We have tangible evidence that those who came before us really paved the way for the freedoms we so easily take for granted and that we also have the responsibility to do that for those who will come behind us. I walked away from this movie not just on some high horse of being black and proud. It was deeper than that. I not only thought of my race and the advances we have made. I also thought of the importance for us as Christians to insert ourselves into the culture and make an impact for the kingdom of God.
Hidden figures tells the story of three black women, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn & Mary Jackson, who in the 1960’s worked for NASA. The deck was stacked against them not only for being black, but also being women. Despite being more capable than most of their counterparts, they had to work twice as hard to even be considered as if they even existed as human beings. They each ended up playing intricate parts in the launching of astronaut John Glenn into the earth’s orbit. They are hidden because they are basically considered invisible. Though they are disrespected they are wise enough to use their talents and intellect in such impressive fashion that it puts them in positions and in places that, at that time, they were told they had no business being. In doing so, they were able to change their environment and ultimately do things that would literally change our world. One thing hidden in this story is the importance of community. What helped these ladies was their families and the bond of friendship they had with each other. They were there to encourage each other and to push each other forward to achieve their goals, not allowing the oppression of society to hold them back from succeeding.
Another gem in this movie is that these were women of faith. This movie subliminally shows how God blessed these women with great abilities and used them to impact their environment. I definitely left with a sense of us as believers being able to do the same. Whether it’s in music, movies, as an architect or as a plumber. Hidden in plain sight, God can use us as a tool for His glory. “Hidden Figures” is definitely one of the best movies of 2017 and gives us some history that is not well known that we can share with our children for years to come. A superb acting job by Taraji P. Henson, Janelle Monae and Octavia Spencer. Below is the trailer for the movie and a live performance of “I See Victory” from the movie soundtrack featuring Kim Burrell and Pharrell Williams. Definitely go check out this film at a theater near you and let us know what you think.
