". . . see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." 1 Peter 1:22b
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Two of the characters displayed unselfish love. The kind of love that wants what's best for the loved regardless of the cost. And in both cases, the selfless act centered around a letter. . .
Jean Valjean, of course, showed that love when he intercepted and acted upon a letter from Marius addressed to Cosette, pledging his undying love for her. Valjean struggled with his decision:
"She was never mine to keep
She is youthful, she is free
Love is the garden of the young
Let it be
Let it be
A heart full of love
This I give you this day"
But he finally realized that Cosette needed a husband to love and care for her. Jean had raised her. Now it was time to give her wings. Jean Valjean knew he'd be lonely, but he also realized he'd be gone soon. Instead of keeping Cosette to himself, he sought Marius out and protected him during the battle, "bringing him home" safely, so he could eventually marry his daughter.
"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17
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Did you notice that whenever Eponine sings, it's raining? I see that as a symbol of an unfortunate life. But, that life/trouble was washed away with the rain, as Eponine laid dying in Marius's arms. It was all worthwhile.
Eponine loved Marius, even tho' that love was not returned. Again, intercepting a letter from Cosette to Marius, Eponine decided to reveal it just before she died. Instead of feeling jealous, Eponine unselfishly gave Marius hope for the future. Not only that, but she had just shielded Marius from a bullet which ended up taking her life.
What a lovely post, thanks for stopping by my blog, I agree with your comment on my blog, there are just so many books out there waiting to be discovered!http://wp.me/p2Eu3u-nS
ReplyDeleteThanks Rosie!
DeleteJust watched Les Miserables last week. I hope I love unselfishly, and I feel I've experienced unselfish love...Thanks for sharing...good post.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you had a chance to see it, Cathrina. It's good to ponder the definition of unselfish love. Thanks for stopping by!
Deletei've never read Les Mis or seen the play or movie. I have it on my kindle now to read.
ReplyDeleteGood for you, Deena! It's smart to read the book first, although there is nothing like seeing the latest movie on the big screen!
DeleteI will need to see this movie eventually. Saw the non-musical version that came out in about 1950 or so. Unselfish love? That's a tough question. In a sense I think all love has a certain selfish element to it as far as we humans are concerned. But I think love we have for our children comes very close.
ReplyDeleteLee
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I would agree that parental love comes the closest. Hopefully you can see it on the big screen before it leaves the theatre. It is amazing! I have seen two movies and a stage version, and by far, the latest movie is the best! Thanks for stopping by, Arlee!
DeleteI agree with Lee--all human love has an element of selfishness. However, I do strive to love others with the selfless love Jesus has for me. This movie made me think a lot of the verse, "Greater love has no man than this, that he laid down his (or her) life for his friends."
ReplyDeleteYes, so applicable to these two characters!
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