“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” -Galatians 6:10
One of my favorite characters in all musicals in Bishop Myriel. It is a small role in the powerful musical Les Misérables. This amazing musical is based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name. Bishop Myriel, in both the book and the musical is a pivotal character that helps to change the life of Jean Valjean. The bishop encounters Jean Valjean, homeless and hopeless and invites him to come and stay at his residence where he can rest and be fed. Jean Valjean’s encounter with this humble, caring clergy sends him down the path of redemption and new life.
Victor Hugo based his character on a real-life Bishop. Bishop Charles-Francois Bienvenu Myriel. Victor Hugo wanted a person who represented patience, redemption, hospitality, and kindness. Victor Hugo’s son was against using a clergy for this role in the book. He was wanted a more secular person to personify these characteristics. Victor Hugo eventually went with the image that he felt most comfortable with, the bishop who spent a life in service to others. It is the bishop who represents a God of the same character.
How do we best represent our faith? What are the characteristics that best exemplify Jesus, the One we follow? I love the character of Bishop Myriel because he reminds me of how I am to represent our faith. He extends hospitality to the homeless and hopeless. He offers grace, even in the face of significant failure and missteps. He gives a chance for redemption to a life many considered lost. These are the things that represent the beauty of our faith. These are the thing we all need, from time to time.
When Jean Valjean meets the bishop, he encounters God’s grace. Bishop Myriel hopes his actions will help Jean Valjean lead a better and more full life, so he sings, “Remember this, my brother. See in this some higher plan…”
How will your actions today help others to see God? How will your work today to bring new life to those around you? How will you help others to see a higher plan?
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
