THE MARK OF THE HAWK AND THE WAY OF CHRIST

The Mark of the Hawk (1957) is one of Sidney Poitier’s most overlooked films, yet its message is strikingly relevant. Set in an African nation under British rule, the story follows Obam (Poitier), a man torn between the pull of violent resistance and the call to pursue peace. His brother urges bloodshed, the colonial government resists change, and Obam feels trapped between loyalty, pressure, and truth. It is the story of a soul trying to find the right path when every voice around him insists on another way.

What turns Obam’s heart is not hatred or political fire but the steady influence of two people—a praying wife and a humble missionary. Their wisdom reminds him that true freedom is not born of rage but of righteousness. As the native preacher Matthew says, they bow not to earthly powers, but to Christ; they stand not alone, but with believers across the world. This echoes our Lord’s words: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

This film becomes a mirror for us. We, too, are tempted by the pressures of anger, reaction, and fear. We, too, can forget who we are when life’s noise grows loud. But Christ calls us back—back to clarity, back to courage, back to His way. The wrath of man cannot produce the righteousness of God (James 1:20), but the grace of Christ can steady any troubled heart.

Let this story remind us today: the way of Jesus is still the only way that heals nations, softens hearts, and brings peace where bitterness once reigned.

BDD