From the New York Times Best-Selling Author

S T U D Y

G U I D E

Doris

James

ROBERTS

VAN DER BEEK

Miracles are Everywhere

Crew Overview Michael Scott (Director) David Golden (Writer: teleplay) Debbie Macomber (Writer: novel)

Cast Overview Doris Roberts (Emily Merkle a.k.a. Mrs. Miracle) James Van Der Beek (Seth Webster) Erin Karpluk (Reba Maxwell) Chelah Horsdal (Kate Preston) Johannah Newmarch (Vicki)

Using This Discussion Guide Intended for use after viewing the film, this study guide provides catalysts for biblically based discussion of various themes found in Mrs. Miracle. The guide features three themes from the movie and is structured in such a way that groups can choose to discuss the entire guide at once or can focus on one or two themes at a time.

Copyright Information • •

Scripture taken from the New International Version (NIV) Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by the International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

Film Overview/Note to Group Adapted from Debbie Macomber’s Christmas novel of the same name, Mrs. Miracle follows the intersecting narratives of Seth Webster (played by James Van Der Beek) and Reba Maxwell (Erin Karpluk), two people struggling to live fully in the present while clinging to specific hurts from the past. Help and guidance soon arrive in the unlikely form of Mrs. Emily Merkle (Doris Roberts), an “angelic” housekeeper with plans to show Seth and Reba the importance of letting go of their grief, the power of forgiveness and healing and the joy of investing in others’ lives. As the film opens, it appears nothing short of a miracle will help Seth, an overwhelmed widower and father, manage his rambunctious twin boys Judd and Jason, his demanding full-time job and his lingering grief over his wife’s death several years prior. But, just as the temp agency runs out of viable housekeeper candidates, Mrs. Merkle (or, Mrs. Miracle, as Judd and Jason’s mispronunciation quickly labels her) arrives at the Webster doorstep and immediately begins to restore order and sanity to the household with equal parts tough love, humor and wisdom. Across town, Reba’s convinced herself that she’s content to live her life operating her travel agency, hitting the gym with her friend Kate (Chelah Horsdal) and nursing a four-year-old grudge against her sister for stealing her fiancé. But when an unfortunate turn of events leaves the local Christmas pageant in urgent need of a director, Reba must decide if her rusty theater skills are up to the challenge – and if her hardened heart is willing to invest in the greater good. With some not-so-subtle encouragement from Mrs. Miracle, Reba agrees to take the job.

When Seth and Reba meet at a subsequent pageant rehearsal, they begin a timid courtship, eventually bonding over their respective stories of loss. For a time, they revel in each other’s emotional comfort and understanding, but the feeling doesn’t last. After a heartbreaking encounter with Reba’s estranged sister, Seth encourages reconciliation and the very idea puts Reba on the defensive. When the pageant loses its piano player (thanks to Mrs. Miracle), Reba asks Seth to play, but he refuses to return to the instrument he abandoned the day his wife died. Having parted ways after a heated argument about their situations, Seth and Reba busy themselves with work. Steadily, Mrs. Miracle chips away at their hurt, first prompting Reba to reconcile with her sister and then encouraging Seth to share with his boys information about their mother. On the night of the Christmas pageant, Reba is pleasantly surprised to find Seth at the piano and the show commences without a hitch. Afterwards, Mrs. Miracle makes a heartfelt exit, leaving Seth, Reba and the twins to enjoy the fulfillment of their very own Christmas miracle.

Theme One: Grief

Guiding Scripture: Psalm 30:5 (NIV): “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”

Scriptures Referenced • • • • •

Psalm 30:5 (NIV): “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” Psalm 34:18 (NLT): “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” Proverbs 15:13 (NIV): “A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 (NLT): “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven…A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance.” Isaiah 54:10 (NLT): “‘For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken,’ says the Lord, who has mercy on you.”

• • • •

Isaiah 66:13 (NIV): “As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you.” Lamentations 3:31–33 (NIV): “For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.” Matthew 5:4 (NLT): “God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Romans 12:15 (NIV): “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

Scenes to Review • • • •

Mrs. Miracle “Finds” a Picture (00:27:41–00:30:17, Chapter 6) Seth Explains His Past (00:42:25–00:46:40, Chapter 9) The Confrontation (01:09:30–01:12:33, Chapter 14) A Life Remembered (01:17:44–01:19:38, Chapter 16)

Discussion Questions Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 says that there is “a time for every activity under heaven,” such as “a time to grieve and a time to dance” (see Scriptures Referenced for the full passage). In these verses, Solomon validates the human experience of pain, but he also points to a sense of moderation, suggesting that a life consumed with any one particular activity is a life without balance. For Seth Webster, grief has become a constant companion and the unresolved heartache over his wife’s death has adversely impacted his life in several significant ways. Seth’s children, for instance, hunger for knowledge of their mother, but Seth refuses to oblige them, instead maintaining an emotional distance that only serves to further stunt their relationship.

Scene to Review Mrs. Miracle “Finds” a Picture (00:27:41–00:30:17, Chapter 6) • • • •

How does this scene demonstrate the different ways that Seth’s grief affects the dynamics in his family? What is the overall mood or atmosphere in the house during this scene? In what ways does Mrs. Miracle try to engage Seth in conversation about his wife? What is she hoping will happen if she can succeed in getting Seth to discuss Pamela? Seth says the kids will learn about their mother “when they’re ready.” But how does Mrs. Miracle try to make Seth understand that it isn’t the kids who aren’t ready? Can you relate to Seth’s struggle? Have you ever experienced a time in your life when it seemed like you might never recover from the grief of tragedy or loss? What happened?

Take a moment to read Psalm 34:18 and Lamentations 3:31–33 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

Psalm 34:18 makes an amazing statement about God’s faithfulness during times of distress. How can we trust in God’s comfort amidst the reality of grief and despair? What does the Lamentations passage say about the process of grief? What promises regarding God’s compassion and unfailing love are embedded in these verses?

On Seth and Reba’s first date, the conversation leads to the topic of music, and Seth wonders if he’s willing to share his past with Reba. Ultimately, he confides in her and her compassion and understanding soothe some of Seth’s pain. Although Reba can’t fix Seth’s brokenness in its entirety, she is able to break through his stoic veneer and that holds potential for healing.

Scene to Review Seth Explains His Past (00:42:25–00:46:40, Chapter 9) • • • •

Why can Reba relate to Seth’s personal struggle? What’s going on in her life (addressed more fully in Theme Two) that gives her the ability to show compassion for Seth? What are your thoughts about Seth’s reasons for abandoning music? Does his explanation change the way you view his struggle with grief? Why or why not? Why is it significant that Seth shares his past with Reba? How might this subtle shift in his attitude represent a positive change where his painful past is concerned? Seth and Reba establish a strong emotional bond almost immediately. What are some advantages and disadvantages to their relationship being grounded in sympathy?

Read Isaiah 66:13 and Romans 12:15 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

According to Isaiah 66:13, how can we find ultimate comfort? Why might this verse relate God to a nurturing mother? What does that suggest about God’s comfort? How does Seth’s and Reba’s relationship demonstrate aspects of Romans 12:15? How is human compassion a small reflection of heavenly compassion?

When the pageant’s piano player wins a trip to Fiji, Reba is left with the task of filling the void – a nearly impossible job. She turns to Seth, the only piano player who knows all the nuances of the production, but she’s devastated when he says no. What follows is a brutally honest confrontation about the true cost of catering to the grief and pain of the past.

Scene to Review The Confrontation (01:09:30–01:12:33, Chapter 14) • • • • •

How does Seth’s grief prevent him from living and fully enjoying the present? What are some of the sacrifices he makes in order to keep his grief fresh and alive? Seth says that he can’t play the piano, but Reba counters that he won’t. What’s the difference between the two words and who, in your opinion, is right? Reba argues that the music didn’t die with Pamela and that Seth is more interested in clinging to his grief than in living his life. What do you think of these statements? When Seth turns the tables on Reba and points out her own unwillingness to make amends with the past, what is her response? How does their pain stall their relationship? By the same token, how does this confrontation – the way that Seth and Reba challenge each other – ultimately serve as a catalyst for change and healing in their lives?

Read Psalm 30:5 and Proverbs 15:13 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

What does Psalm 30:5 say about grief’s allotted time frame in our lives? Why is it important to make peace with grief? How can grief be countered with rejoicing? Proverbs 15:13 states that “heartache crushes the spirit.” How is Seth’s life (prior to finding healing at the end of the film) a testament to heartache’s devastating ability?

Despite years of frustration, Seth eventually makes his peace with the past. Thanks to the help of Mrs. Miracle, Judd and Jason, and Reba, Seth is able to find healing and open his heart to the blessings that abound in his life. To see Seth’s reconciliation with his grief, feel free to watch the following Optional Scene to Review in which Seth shares his late wife’s memory with the twins.

Optional Scene to Review A Life Remembered (01:17:44–01:19:38, Chapter 16) As you conclude this theme discussion, spend some time reading Isaiah 54:10 and Matthew 5:4 (see Scriptures Referenced), and consider not only the way each verse addresses the topic of grief, but also how each verse contains wonderful, life-affirming promises. Rest in the assurance that while this life may not be exempt from pain, God is in the business of comforting and healing and those are two jobs that he performs to each of our unique specifications.

Theme Two: Forgiveness

Guiding Scripture: Colossians 3:13 (NIV): “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Scriptures Referenced • • • • •

Psalm 103:12 (NIV): “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Micah 7:18–19 (NIV): “Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” Matthew 5:24 (NIV): “Leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:44 (NLT): “But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” Matthew 6:14–15 (NLT): “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

• • • •

Matthew 18:21–22 (NLT): “Then Peter came to him and asked, ‘Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?’ ‘No, not seven times,’ Jesus replied, ‘but seventy times seven!’” Mark 11:25 (NIV): “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Colossians 3:13 (NIV): “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Hebrews 4:16 (NLT): “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”

Scenes to Review • Reba’s Painful Memory (00:54:01–00:58:49, Chapter 11) • An Encounter with the Past (01:00:42–01:05:44, Chapter 13) • The Ornament (01:14:20–01:17:36, Chapter 15)

Discussion Questions Just as Seth faces a significant challenge in his relationship with grief (addressed more fully in Theme One), Reba faces a significant challenge in her relationship with forgiveness. Specifically, Reba is consumed with a four-year-old betrayal at the hands of her sister Vicki (Johannah Newmarch) and the thought of reconciliation seems nearly impossible. But circumstances (and people) are pressing in, forcing Reba to take an honest look at her hurt and anger, thus prompting her to make a decision where forgiveness and reconciliation are concerned.

Scene to Review Reba’s Painful Memory (00:54:00–00:58:49, Chapter 11) • • • • •

What do you think of Reba’s mother’s comments, such as calling the long-standing grudge “silliness” or saying that Reba and Vicki have been hurt enough? After hearing Reba relay the details of the incident to Seth, what are your thoughts about Reba’s struggle to forgive? Can you relate to her situation? Why or why not? Seth says that Reba was “betrayed by the two people [she] trusted most.” Does this perspective help explain why Reba might be reluctant to forgive her sister? How about you? Has a betrayal or hurt ever impacted you to the point where forgiveness seemed impossible? Where you wondered if you’d ever find reconciliation? Or maybe you can relate to Vicki’s experience in this situation. Have you ever made a mistake, asked for forgiveness and then had to wait indefinitely for reconciliation?

Read Matthew 6:14–15 and 18:21–22 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

These two passages record Jesus’ very own words on the topic of forgiveness. According to Matthew 6:14–15, what is the cost of refusing to bestow forgiveness on an offender? In Matthew 18:21–22, Peter is astounded to hear that forgiveness doesn’t expire. What does this passage say about the importance – and necessity – of forgiveness?

One day, as Seth and Reba are Christmas shopping, they have a strained, awkward encounter with Vicki in which Reba makes it clear that no amount of apologizing will change the past. Later that night, Seth suggests that Reba, for her own peace of mind, consider reconciling with her sister. The suggestion sends Reba into a quiet, defensive rage and she leaves in anger.

Scene to Review An Encounter with the Past (01:00:42–01:05:44, Chapter 13) • • • •

How would you describe Reba’s interaction with Vicki during this scene? What does Reba’s aggressiveness reveal about the current state of her hurt? Is there evidence of a truly repentant heart on Vicki’s side? This is the first time we see Vicki onscreen; how well does she fit with your expectations of her? Seth believes that Reba is letting her grudge against Vicki control her life, citing Reba’s willingness to miss seeing her favorite relatives as an example. Do you agree with him? Seth further adds that Reba is hurting herself more than anyone else. How does his observation speak to the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation?

Take a look at Matthew 5:24; 5:44; and Mark 11:25 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

The message in Matthew 5:44 seems completely counterintuitive; why would Jesus encourage his followers to love their enemies and pray for their persecutors? What do Matthew 5:24 and Mark 11:25 say about the relationship between us forgiving others and God forgiving us? How is forgiveness vital to our spiritual health?

After experiencing the emotional gravity of seeing her sister and hearing Seth’s advice regarding reconciliation, Reba retreats to her travel agency, busying herself with work. But when Mrs. Miracle steps in and helps Reba understand the power of retrieving something that was once considered lost, Reba realizes that her grudge is doing more harm than good and fixes it.

Scene to Review The Ornament (01:14:20–01:17:36, Chapter 15) • • • •

How does the ornament act as a symbol of Reba’s relationship with her sister? With Seth? How does Mrs. Miracle’s small illustration impact Reba? Prior to this scene, do you think Reba really understood what she was forfeiting in her initial hurt and subsequent self-pity? Why are we so easily blinded by our pain? When Reba and Vicki reconcile, Reba apologizes to Vicki with a simple, “I’m sorry.” Why does Reba feel the need to apologize and for what is she apologizing? How is this scene a testament to the power of forgiveness and reconciliation? And how does it demonstrate the importance of recognizing when we need to make amends?

Read Colossians 3:13 and Hebrews 4:16 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

Colossians 3:13 presents the best reason – and model – for forgiveness: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” What are some practical ways to put this command into action? When forgiveness seems unattainable, how can the amazing message of Hebrews 4:16 encourage us to find the strength and will to seek reconciliation in any matter?

In concluding this theme discussion, read Psalm 103:12 and Micah 7:18–19 (see Scriptures Referenced) and consider the magnificent and awe-inspiring way that God has forgiven our transgressions. Then think about our ultimate model of forgiveness – Jesus Christ – who took upon himself the sins of the world without holding a grudge or keeping a score. Keeping in mind the work that Jesus has done, consider the transformative power of forgiveness in your own life.

Theme Three: Service

Guiding Scripture: Mark 10:45 (NLT): “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Scriptures Referenced • • • •

Proverbs 11:25 (NIV): “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Matthew 5:14–16 (NLT) “You are the light of the world – like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Mark 10:45 (NLT): “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Luke 22:26–27 (NLT): “But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course! But not here! For I am among you as one who serves.”

• • • •

Acts 20:35 (NLT): “And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Galatians 5:13 (NIV): “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.” Philippians 2:3–4 (NIV): “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV): “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”

Scenes to Review • • • • •

Mrs. Miracle Arrives (00:11:44–00:17:25, Chapter 3) Playing Matchmaker (00:34:28–00:36:07, Chapter 7) Kate’s Opinion of Mrs. Miracle (00:49:31–00:50:08, Chapter 10) Warrior Angels (01:12:34–01:14:18, Chapter 15) The Christmas Pageant (01:20:00–01:27:48, Chapter 17)

Discussion Questions Mrs. Miracle, as a character, is out of this world…quite literally. Sent as an intercessory guardian angel, she inserts herself into the Webster family and proceeds to restore love, joy and hope to Seth, Judd and Jason, and Reba – as well as a few other people along the way. Her gift is that of service and while she is certainly capable of supernatural activity (and uses it on occasion), many of her “miracles” result from the accumulation of small, intentional acts of service. When Mrs. Miracle first arrives at the chaotic Webster house, it doesn’t take her long to assess the situation and implement a plan. One by one, she takes care of the details – the mess, the twins’ behavior and the ruined dinner – and she does so by seeing and addressing the need.

Scene to Review Mrs. Miracle Arrives (00:11:44–00:17:25, Chapter 3) • • • •

How would you describe Mrs. Miracle’s personality? What kind of characteristics does she have that enable her to almost instantaneously connect with Seth and the twins? By addressing the more immediate needs (messes, dinners, bedtimes, etc.), how does Mrs. Miracle actually start working on the long-term needs of Seth and the twins? Why do the boys respond so quickly and so well to Mrs. Miracle? How does that relate to the way that Seth has been emotionally withdrawn over the last few years? What simple acts of service does Mrs. Miracle perform as she meets her new clients? How does she demonstrate the importance of investing in others’ lives?

Read Mark 10:45 and 1 Peter 4:10 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

What does Mark 10:45 say about the act of service? How can we take Jesus’ model of serving others and apply it to our lives? What does that kind of service look like? How does the message of 1 Peter 4:10 apply to Mrs. Miracle? How is her role as housekeeper symbolic of the overall task she’s hoping to accomplish?

Another service gift that Mrs. Miracle possesses is that of encouragement and she uses this gift both covertly and overtly throughout the film. Whether she’s playing recruiter for the pageant, nanny or matchmaker, she’s constantly planting seeds – encouraging people to participate in life, to be passionate, to take the next step and to open their hearts. When it comes to Seth and Reba and the possibility of romance, Mrs. Miracle knows she must work carefully and patiently, as she understands that their hearts are still somewhat guarded. So, after orchestrating their first meeting (helping Reba make her decision about the pageant and then sending Seth to pick up the kids from rehearsal), she encourages Seth to learn more.

Scene to Review Playing Matchmaker (00:34:2–00:36:07, Chapter 7) • • • •

How does Mrs. Miracle encourage Seth to have confidence in approaching Reba? Does Seth seem to listen to and agree with her suggestions? Why or why not? What is Mrs. Miracle’s strategy in this scene? How does she go about planting little ideas for Seth to consider and potentially act on when he feels that he’s ready? Why might Seth need some subtle (or perhaps, not so subtle) encouragement where romance is concerned? What’s been preventing him from reentering the dating scene? Though you may not be playing matchmaker specifically (as Mrs. Miracle is in this scene), what are some ways that you can look to encourage others in their endeavors?

Read Proverbs 11:25 and Philippians 2:3–4 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

When Proverbs 11:25 says, “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed,” how does that relate to the act of encouragement? How does it relate to service? Philippians 2:3–4 instructs us to look to the interests of others. What does that mean in terms of service and how can we actively fulfill this biblical mandate?

Part of Mrs. Miracle’s temporary assignment with the Webster family is to spend time investing in Judd and Jason as Seth properly and finally grieves his wife. While Seth gradually works on this aspect of his life that has prevented him from fully engaging with his children, Mrs. Miracle tends to the twins, making sure they have plenty of love and attention in the meantime.

Scenes to Review Kate’s Opinion of Mrs. Miracle (00:49:31–00:50:08, Chapter 10) Warrior Angels (01:12:34–01:14:18, Chapter 15) • • • •

Kate tells Reba that the twins always knew something was missing from their lives. Though Kate can’t pinpoint the issue, how is Mrs. Miracle making a difference? What are your thoughts on the “Warrior Angels” scene? How would you describe the bond that has formed between Mrs. Miracle and the twins? As Seth gets home, Mrs. Miracle is telling the boys to have faith that things, including the pageant, will turn out for the best. Why does Seth need to hear that message, too? How is Mrs. Miracle’s servanthood demonstrated in this scene? What does she accomplish by spending time with the boys and by making their costumes?

Take some time to read Luke 22:26–27 and Acts 20:35 (see Scriptures Referenced). • •

Part of Luke 22:26–27 says that a leader should be like a servant. How does Mrs. Miracle demonstrate this idea, and how does her servanthood contribute to her mission’s success? Acts 20:35 contains some recorded words of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Have you ever experienced this? If so, what happened?

To see the culmination of Mrs. Miracle’s work, feel free to watch the following Optional Scene to Review. In the film’s final scene, the Christmas pageant is on full display, but take note of the way that people have been impacted and changed thanks to an angel with a heart for service.

Optional Scene to Review The Christmas Pageant (01:20:00–01:27:48, Chapter 17) As you conclude this theme discussion, read Matthew 5:14–16 and Galatians 5:13 (see Scriptures Referenced). Think about how these verses – and so many more – encourage a heart and life of service. And even though you may not have the supernatural powers of a celestial being, think about how you can use your unique gifts and abilities to make a difference in someone’s life.

Final Thoughts • • • • •

Why is it appropriate that this film is set during the holiday season? Are there any parallels (i.e. themes, ideas) between the real story of Christmas and Mrs. Miracle? What is the significance of Mrs. Miracle’s name change (from Mrs. Merkle)? How does the Christmas pageant scene demonstrate the power of community? What happens when everyone is willing to use their gifts for the greater good? What do you think of the character of Kate? How does she step in, fill the sister void and provide some companionship to the otherwise isolated Reba? Even though Vicki and Doug are only onscreen for a few minutes, how does their story line greatly influence other characters and the overall plot?

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