‘If we look beyond the glamorous setting, simple yet “elevated” dishes, sweet guest experiences, and celebrity cameos, we must consider a deeper truth: everyone deserves a chance to start anew, and God is in the business of restoration,’ says Alena Kate Pettitt.
After a considered and thoughtful delay due to the recent California wild fires, at last, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has stepped back into the world of television with her new Netflix series, With Love, Meghan. Inviting viewers into a beautifully curated glimpse of her life, where she hosts celebrity guests, cooks wholesome meals, shares craft ideas, and engages in meaningful conversations.
From a worldly perspective, With Love, Meghan offers a look into a life of extraordinary privilege and luxury. A rented private estate in Montecito, California, is the picturesque setting for this series, featuring beautiful interiors, organic gardens, and a carefully crafted atmosphere of warmth.
However, it is refreshing to see her so relaxed and happy, and this, I hope, will be the key take away for all viewers.
While the show is a reflection of Meghan’s passion for homemaking, hospitality, and quality time with loved ones, the concept of the eight-part series, and indeed its content, is nothing particularly ground-breaking. Any woman keen on homemaking will raise an eyebrow at the all too familiar “ideas”, that many of us would have seen before from existing blogs, and will undoubtably be met with harsh criticism in the press. However, it is refreshing to see her so relaxed and happy, and this, I hope, will be the key take away for all viewers.
READ MORE: With headlines about Meghan and Kate in Omid Scobie’s new book, how should we as Christian women react to female rivalry?
If we look beyond the glamorous setting, simple yet “elevated” dishes, sweet guest experiences, and celebrity cameos, we must consider a deeper truth: everyone deserves a chance to start anew, and God is in the business of restoration.
Throughout scripture, we see God offering new beginnings to those who seek him.
Throughout scripture, we see God offering new beginnings to those who seek him. Whether it was Paul, who once persecuted Christians and was transformed into one of the greatest apostles, or the story of the prodigal son who was welcomed home with open arms, is this her media redemption story? While her storm-filled journey has been played out in the public eye, with its fair share of controversy, it is not our place to judge. Instead, as believers, we are called to extend grace and pray for God’s best in her life.
READ MORE: Beyoncé told Meghan she was selected to break generational curses that need to be healed and I think she could be right
Meghan was always destined for the screen. Before she became the Duchess of Sussex, she was known for her acting career, most notably starring in Suits. Now, she returns to a space where she can control her own narrative, sharing pieces of her life in a way that doesn’t compromise her privacy or personal safety. This is something we can all appreciate - having the ability to share our testimonies in a way that honours both our experiences and our boundaries.
It is also worth noting that With Love, Meghan is more than just a lifestyle show; it is an expression of creativity, family, and personal joy. Meghan’s new lifestyle brand, As Ever, further emphasises her love for home and hospitality, reminding us of the importance of creating a nurturing environment for our loved ones. As keepers of our own homes, we know that hospitality is a biblical principle. Romans 12:13 tells us to “contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” Opening our homes, whether to guests, family, or even through acts of service, is a beautiful way to reflect God’s love.
READ MORE: I watched Netflix’s Harry and Meghan documentary so I could pick a side in the royal rift, but Jesus convicted me about judging
As With Love, Meghan premieres, and the world braces itself for the media onslaught that is sure to follow, let us extend kindness to her and her family. Regardless of personal opinions, we can always choose to be a light in a world filled with harsh criticism. Meghan, Prince Harry, and their children, Archie and Lilibet, are a family seeking their own path, just like the rest of us. May God guide their journey, and may we always seek to show love, just as Christ has loved us.
2 Readers' comments