Yesterday I went with Beth and Joe to see Nanny McPhee. We did not realise until we came out that we had seen the film on its release day. That’s a bit of history for the Ryan family!

The film was full of good stuff; the basic story being the death of a mother, unruly kids scaring off 17 nanny’s followed by the arrival of Nanny McPhee, a magical and mysterious figure who brings calm and order back to the family.

This is a film that can be used to illustrate many family and relationship things in groups, so watch out for the DVD. Two key things that I noticed in the film which I think I can share without ruining the plot:

1. Behaviour, and respect, need to be 2 way. Although the children needed to be taught how to behave, the adult in the story needed to learn an important lesson too. A lesson here for government ministers with their respect theme as well as parents.

2. Good behaviour and learned lessons have an interesting effect on McAfee. Loads of mileage here for how changed behaviour can change appearance and outlook of people.

I also love the deep Nanny quote:

‘When you don’t want me, but you need me, then I will stay. But, when you want me, but no longer need me, then I must go’

A good motto for an enabling ministry?