Faith
Kevin Costner’s Faith Shines in Christmas Special
Faith Facts
- Kevin Costner’s acting journey began in a church nativity play.
- His new ABC special, “The First Christmas,” deeply explores the Nativity story through a faith-centered lens.
- Costner emphasizes keeping Christ at the center of Christmas and draws on his Baptist upbringing in the project.
Kevin Costner reflects on his earliest acting in church, remembering how faith quietly shaped his life and career. He is now hosting a new ABC special that returns him to his spiritual roots, bringing the story of Christ’s birth to the forefront.
“I didn’t even know what acting was; you just be a shepherd. You have this big, long stick, so don’t fight any kids with it.”
Through “The First Christmas,” Costner intentionally prioritizes Christian themes, highlighting the importance of focusing on Christ amid the busyness of the season. He draws from his own foundation in a Baptist church to bring a human perspective to the biblical story of Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Christ.
“I make sports movies, cowboy movies and dramas…and sometimes you’re not always dealing with your faith. I wouldn’t have done this if it weren’t important to me, because of how I was raised. I was raised in a Baptist church.”
The special brings renewed attention to the realities Mary and Joseph faced, demonstrating their courage and reliance on God in difficult times. Costner seeks to offer viewers a genuine connection by sharing his own faith journey and encouraging thoughtful reflection on the message of Jesus’ birth.
“I didn’t want to just be a famous face in front of a religious story. I wanted to be very human about it.”
He acknowledges that even those who doubt can appreciate the powerful endurance of the Christmas story. The program extends an invitation to skeptics and believers alike, urging all to consider the spiritual truths at the heart of this season.
“I invited the cynic to sit with us. They don’t have to believe, but they do recognize that this story has endured.”
As Costner immerses himself in the events of the Nativity, he is reminded of humanity’s need for a Savior and the moral guidance Jesus provides. He calls on families to use this season as an opportunity to nurture faith, honor loved ones, and remember God’s hand in their lives.
“For Christians, it centers on the birth of this child, the promise that He was coming, and the message He would bring of peace, of how you treat your neighbor, and how you live morally under very tough conditions.”
Let us remember to cherish our faith, our families, and freedom this Christmas as we celebrate the true meaning of the season. To read more about Kevin Costner’s journey and his heartfelt take on Christmas, visit the source below.