Since 2008, Hallmark has produced 158 Christmas romance movies. 2017 was their record year with 33 original movies. Well … “original” might be a stretch. The movies are, at best, formulaic. They all feature pizzicato strings in their soundtracks and I’m pretty sure those are the same warbling carolers in every show. My research shows that there are at least 15 different Hallmark movies where the love interest turns out to be … wait for it … a prince of a tiny country that no one has ever heard of. And then there’s the surprise plot twist where the love interest turns out to be a princess from a tiny country that no one has ever heard of. So, the only thing original about Hallmark is their use of the word “original.”
I doubt anyone from their management team would argue with my assessment. Romance has been a moneymaker for Hallmark from their inception in 1910. But even they, I think, are surprised by how love sells at Christmas. It is their most lucrative time of year.
“The Candle of Love” may sound like one of Hallmarks Christmas movie titles, but it’s really about the greatest most original love story every told. In this story, a baby born in obscurity and poverty turns out to be the ruler and rescuer of the world. This morning’s candle reminds us that God’s plans for us grew from his love … and that we are to grow in his love.
God’s people in other times waited and trusted in the promise of Messiah. And … the Christ was born just as God had promised. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
God’s perfect gift of love teaches us to look forward to eternal life and to the promise of Messiah’s return. But our hope in Him is not just about “then,” it’s for today. Jesus left us this instruction until He returns … A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35
Enjoy a couple (or ten) Hallmark love stories this season. But really … what are they compared to the Christmas story? Let’s revel in that love and then lavish it on others.
(Disclaimer: My interest in and knowledge of Hallmark romance movies is purely hypothetical.)
