HIDDEN FIGURES (2016) Movie Review
Galatians 3:28 says, “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (NLT)
We are all God's children, regardless of race and regardless of gender. He gives us gifts and abilities expecting us to use them for His glory and to contribute to the good of humanity. In spite of the obstacles in our way.
So, what happens to a brilliant mathematician in 1961, a time of segregation, chauvinism, and low technology? She ignores society's expectations and goes to work for NASA. Despite her gender and race, her gift is too valuable for such expectations to apply. In fact, she is so valuable that she inspires progress for integration within NASA.
Christ says in Matthew 7:1-2, "Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged." (NLT)
Her name is Katherine Johnson, and she is one of three African-American woman that the true story Hidden Figures follows through their careers at NASA. Each one of them become instrumental to America's race with Russia to put a man in space. Fortunately, for these incredible and brilliant ladies, America paranoia with Russia alleged threats superseded its prejudice for its own citizens. Thus, it gives these women the privilege of working for such a revered establishment.
Their gifts for mathematics make them invaluable, because of what they bring to the table. Nothing more. Nothing less. John Glenn, the astronaut they launch into space is a kind, open-minded man. He does not allow prejudice to dictate how he treats the ladies. He looks beyond their gender and beyond their race. In fact, he expresses nothing except complete faith in them, because of their abilities.
These ladies are far more than a gender or a race. More than wives and mothers. More than mathematicians. Certainly more than “computers”. They are NASA'S guardian angels. Their math protects him from the dangers of space and provide a safe landing. He relies on their ability and follow-through, more so than a machine.
Hebrews 13:2 says, "Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" (NLT)
John Glenn is open to the ladies. He is kind and respectful. He is fully hospitable to their presence at NASA. He not only accepts their help, but also demands it. As a result, they are free and able to protect him. He remains safe through his dangerous, impossible journey.
Hidden Figures is a true story powerful and inspirational enough to bring one to tears. It began as a mystery, developed through a book, and now provided to the public through this film. It, much like these women, is a gift to the people. God bless all of those who struggle to contribute to the betterment of society and a future free of prejudice. God bless Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson.
