Even as I try to focus on Jesus, there is comfort in understanding his disciples. On our mission trip to Guyana in 2005, I read the book by John MacArthur, 12 Ordinary Men. I have since ‘lent’ (I hope not permanently) the book out, I assume, because I can’t find it. Reading about how God used these imperfect men to effect eternity, to heal, to set captives free- as their teacher had done was very comforting and motivating. If God doesn’t give up on them, or us, then neither should we give up on ourselves. This is my evolving understanding of Robert the 17th Bruce.
My first time watching Braveheart, 12 years ago, Robert was as big a villain to me as any of the English. William Wallace was as big a hero as Jesus. Now after watching the movie some more (maybe 15 times over the years?), and actually doing some research on the history, I have more mercy for Robert, and William becomes much more human, and more savage.
From the movie and the commentary that comes with the DVD, we learn Robert is a good man (like you and I) who “wants to do the right thing, but at the same time tries to face the realities of life and make the compromises that were necessary”. William is described as “he would rather shed every last drop of his own blood than yield an inch”. William also, it is said, sees the potential in Robert, that is why Wallace constantly tried to involve Robert- Wallace sees the potential strength.
Robert the 17th Bruce was also loyal to his dad. The 16th (I assume) is shown rotting with leprousy (which some historians guess is also what killed number 17) and advising his son. I don’t think we can blame #17 for trusting his dad, for as his dad said- every generation before 17 had increased land and title for the clan.
When 17 tells 16 about Wallace, about how the men fight for Wallace, about Wallace’s courage and nature, #16 sees how he can use this to his advantage. Dad says “uncompromising people are easy to admire. He has courage, so does a dog. But it is exactly the ability to compromise that makes a man noble”.
When #17 is in Wallace’s presence, you can see the strength trying to come forth, the hope in his eyes, the desire for greatness. But Robert can’t seem to maintain this strength, on his own or around others.
When I first saw this movie, I immediately saw Robert the Bruce as Judas, betraying his hero. I believe history actually shows that Robert switched sides 5 times between the Scots and the English for selfish gain.
As any normal man wants to identify with Wallace, and as there are people in my life who I view as Bravehearts- and as I, and those who I view as my Wallaces, see ourselves more as Robert the 17th, I have realized that he is not Judas, he is more Peter. Judas betrayed Jesus, but then killed himself. Peter denied Jesus, but was restored and went on to great things, even his death. Robert, through his struggles, and then because of the death of Wallace, was initiated (thanks Seth) to greater things. Robert the 17th lead Scotland to freedom through the Battle of Brannockburn, became a huge supporter of the church, and died a hero. After his death, his heart was carried into the crusades.
So as I struggle, and can see how wishy-washy I am, how I get so excited sometimes about following Jesus, especially in the presence of my spiritual leaders, then seem to fade on my own, I can identify with Robert the Bruce, that each failure can strengthen me for future success. And, through Jesus ascension and gift of the Holy Spirit we are equipped to do greater things than even he himself did.
