I Still Believe Movie Review

Recently, my family had the privilege to preview the movie I Still Believe from the comfort of our home.   The theatrical release is coming soon as it will be in theaters in Canada on March 13, 2020.

What is the movie all about?

From the creators of I Can Only Imagine comes an inspiring love story for the ages.   It is the true life story of Christian music mega star Jeremy Camp.  Jeremy's remarkable journey of love and loss proves there is always hope in the midst of tragedy and that faith tested is the only faith worth sharing.

I Still Believe stars K.J. Apa, Britt Robertson, Melissa Roxburgh, Shania Twain, Gary Sinise, and Nathan Parsons.

Our Thoughts 

When we saw this movie, it was during a week-end.  We usually do a family movie time during the week-ends.   Unfortunately, my oldest son was working that day and he was not able to see it with us.  Sometimes, it is not always possible to have the whole family together when an opportunity like this comes.

I have read the memoir of Jeremy Camp a while back so I knew a bit of the story behind I Still Believe.  I knew of the love story and the diagnostic, the struggles and the grief, the hope and the faith.   I won't go too much into details because it would ruin the movie for you.   But seeing it with my eyes and witnessing the story through the movie was simply touching and my emotions were stirred.

I think the love story in this movie is simply beautiful and awe inspiring for young people. It showed commitment and faith throughout the story.   It is the kind of movie that you would want to watch again.

In conclusion, I seriously think that I Still Believe is a movie that is worth watching.   It is clean, inspiring and thought provoking in many ways.   Faith is prominent in it and it can show people that even hard things happens in life, you can still believe in God.

The movie open in theaters on March 13, 2020.  It will be playing in Ottawa at both Landmark Cinemas - Kanata and Orleans.  To discover more places where the movie will be shown in Canada please visit https://www.istillbelievefilm.ca/.

Oh!  And do not forget some tissues because if you are like me you will need them.

GIVEAWAY!!!!

I have one pass (2 tickets) to go see the movie for someone to win.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: Thanks to Faithfilms.ca and Graf-Martin for allowing me to preview the movie for review purposes.  I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way.  All opinion expressed here are only my own.

It’s Okay Not to be Okay

It’s Okay Not to be Okay – Moving Forward One Day at a Time
Written by Sheila Walsh
Published at Baker Books

About the book

We've all experienced that moment where we wish we could start all over again. Failed marriages, lost friends, addictions, lost jobs. This is not the life we imagined. Yesterday can sometimes leave us stuck, sad, shamed, scared, and searching. Sheila Walsh encourages readers to face the pain head on and then start again, from right where they are. She shares that when she discovered "I'm not good enough and I'm good with that," everything started to change.

In It's Okay Not to Be Okay, Walsh helps women overcome the same old rut of struggles and pain by changing the way they think about God, themselves, and their everyday lives. She shares practical, doable, daily strategies that will help women move forward one step at a time knowing God will never let them down.

My Thoughts

I was hesitant in getting this book for review because I didn’t thought it would touch me.  I knew of the author and had heard her speak at a Women of Faith event in the past so I knew that I could gleam some gems of advice in the pages of the book.  The book arrived after a women’s retreat I attended.  Interestingly enough we had talked about the fact that self-help books would not provide the help we need – the help directly coming from God.   So when I received the book and I flipped it over to read the back cover these words were right at the top of it – “Not Self-Help. God Help.”   I thought it was an interesting coincidence having these words written there and it got me thinking that effectively God has been there to help me from day one, he is still there today and he will be there in the future as well.

I started reading the book and I was hooked by the writing style of Sheila Walsh.  It was as if she was sitting in my living room and speaking to me.   She is honest and direct in her writing to make her point go through your mind. You will find eight uplifting chapters to encourage you to realize that it is okay to feel downward and to struggle in life.  But you will also realize that God is there with you through it all.  

Sheila Walsh offers personal insights and stories to illustrate the points she desire to share with the reader.   Not only that by at the end of each chapter you will find a section titles “One Step at a Time” where you can find exercises or activities that will help you to meditate on the chapter and how it applies in your own life.   For example, in chapter one you will be encouraged to write a letter to God to tell Him the whole truth.   This exercise and many others found in the book will allow you to connect on a deeper level with God.

The author also highlights numerous scripture from the Bible through the pages of this book.  I have found the book really uplifting in a season of life where I start to doubt myself and sort of beat myself up some days.   As I approach the age of fifty (yes I am going to be half a century in 2019!), I am wondering if my past decisions were wise one, if I am worth anything, and so many other questions popping out every now and then that makes me self-criticizing myself.   This book has brought some encouragement and made me realize that I am not alone.   I knew it deep down in my soul but reading it helps me to cement this notion in my brain.   God is with me always.  He provides me strength and knows everything about me.   I do not have to be okay all the time because it is during these times of struggles that I can grow even more in my faith.

If you are wondering about the decisions made in the past.  If you experience pain and wonder was it worth it?  If you struggle with sadness, shame, and fear then this book could be a blessing for you.   The words within the pages of this book will help you switch your mindset about God, yourself and life in general.   It is okay not to be okay but it is also possible to heal and become better.  God is there to help you.

It’s Okay Not to be Okay is available for purchase at your favorite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Disclaimer: The book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

God’s Not Dead–A Light in Darkness

Recently my family and I had the privilege to review the latest God’s Not Dead movie on DVD.  God’s Not Dead – A Light in Darkness is a story of destruction, forgiveness and trust that will unfold through your television as you watch it.

If you are a Christian you know about the God’s Not Dead movies and this one is bringing up questions like “Is God really good all the time?”, “Where is God when bad things happen?” and “Can Christ really heal the brokenhearted?”

If you are not a Christian but interested in spiritual aspects of forgiveness then I think this movie is worth watching.  And do not worry about not having seen the other two movies of God’s Not Dead because even though you have some recurring characters from the previous movies the story line is pretty much a stand alone one.

In a nutshell, the story revolve around the fact that the church located on the grounds of a state university is becoming less and less welcome.  Though students are attending this church many thinks that the ground on which the church stand should be use for the university purposes.   Suddenly tragedy struck the church and its congregation as a fire erupt.   The church is destroyed and a battle of rights starts.    Which side will win?  The university?  The Pastor?   Amidst all this you discover that sometimes trusting God is difficult as well as hearing from God is not always easy.   Still we have to continue to trust that He has a plan and that ultimately He will win the battle over darkness by shining His light.

I won’t go into the details of what happens in the movie.  But all six of us in the family enjoyed watching it and came out encourage in our faith to persevere when things do not go our way.

I find it is a great movie to watch with family, friends, in a church setting or with new believers.  

God’s Not Dead – A Light in Darkness is available for purchase at your favorite store, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Disclaimer: Film has been provided courtesy of Pure Flix and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. I was not monetarily compensated for this post . Please note that the post was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Paul Apostle of Christ

A new movie is out in theater this week – Paul Apostle of Christ will bring you in the Roman Prison at the end of the life of Paul – a life that started in persecuting believers to  finish in being the most outspoken missionary for Christ.   I had the opportunity to visualize the movie in advance in order to be able to write about it.    The movie has also been transformed into a book which I will present to you afterwards.

About the movie 

Affirm Films brings to vivid life on screen the epic story of Paul, the man who went from persecutor of the church to its most powerful and important proponent. Paul suffers alone in a Roman prison, awaiting his execution under Emperor Nero. Mauritius, the ambitious prison prefect, can hardly see what threat this broken man poses. Once he was Saul of Tarsus, the high-ranking and brutal killer of Christians. Now his faith rattles Rome. At great risk, Luke the Physician visits the aged Paul to comfort and tend to him—and to question, to transcribe and to smuggle out Paul’s letters to the growing community of believers. Amid Nero’s inhuman persecution, these men and women will spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and change the world. Andrew Hyatt directs, Jim Caviezel stars and James Faulkner plays the title role of Paul.

My Thoughts

Before I signed up for this opportunity, we had taken the time to watch the trailer and we were interested in watching it.   Though I admire the fact that more and more Christian based movies are created, I have been disappointed with the fact that the movie at times are dragging in the storyline.   As I watched this morning, I had questions – Did Luke really visited Paul during his final days? Did Paul really was accused of starting the fires?  Did all the events in the movie really happened this way?   I had a feeling that some of these  scenes were not truly what happened in reality.   I had questions… and some of the answers were found at the end of the book (more on that later).

Though I ended up with questions after having watched the movie, I was able to appreciate the various scenes.  I could see that great thought have been made to make the décor has realistic as possible.  The scenes I particularly enjoyed were the ones filmed in the prison cell of Paul.  I really like that area and how the movie depicted the darkness surrounding Paul during his imprisonment.  At times I had to turn my eyes for some scenes in the movie are hard to swallow. But at the same time it is historically correct with what Nero has done to believers during that period in the Roman Empire.   The costumes were amazing as well depicting the era where the movie is set.

At times in the movie, the conversations between Paul and Luke brought parts of the letters of Paul – bringing back some of the scriptures found in the Bible.   For example, Paul remind Luke that Love is most important and during that conversation they use the words from 1 Corinthians 13. 

After watching the movie, I have the feeling that it is not only about Paul himself but also the persecution of the believers during the time when Nero’s reign over Rome because the movie allows you to imagine the life of believers during that era which was not an easy one.

Another note, some scenes are very difficult to watch.  My ten years old daughter had wanted to see it but by the time we could do it it was too later for her.  We are glad she did not watch the movie because even my fourteen years old thought that the scenes of believers used as torches were hard to swallow.

The movie will play at certain theaters.  To discover where it will play, please visit the faith films website – Paul Apostle of Christ.  In Ottawa, the movie will be presented at Silvercity Gloucester and Landmark Cinemas 24 Kanata.

The book
A novel by Angela Hunt
Based on the screenplay by Andrew Hyatt
Published at Bethany House, a Barker Publishing imprint.

About the book

His Story Will Change the World, But Only If It's Shared in Time.

Paul, Apostle of Christ is the story of two men. Luke, as a friend and physician, risks his life every time he ventures into the city of Rome to visit Paul, who is held captive in Nero's bleakest prison cell. Before Paul's execution, Luke resolves to write another book, one that details the beginnings of "the Way" and the birth of what will come to be known as the church. But Nero is determined to rid Rome of Christians.

Paul has survived so much--floggings, shipwreck, starvation, stoning, hunger and thirst, cold and exposure--yet as he waits for his appointment with death, he is haunted by the shadows of his past. He wonders if he has been forgotten . . . and if he has the strength to finish well.

Two men struggle against a determined emperor and the frailties of the human spirit in order to bequeath the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world.

My Thoughts

As I am writing this, I can honestly say that I enjoy the book more than the movie.    I find there are more details in the book – though I can recall certain scenes of the movie as I read it.  

The book itself goes through the same events depicted in the movie but with more details I find.  However, keep in mind that the book was written based on the screenplay.  The book also contains photos from the movie – either characters, scenes as well as the writer/director with the actors. My only disappointment would be that I wish there would have been a section in the book explaining some of the Roman words used in it like lararium or paterfamilias for example. I could google it mind it but having a description of what it means would be nice.

So I mentioned that I had questions after I watched the movie and some answers were given at the end of the book.  For example was Paul really accused that he was behind the fire of Rome?   Well historically, Nero did blame the Christians for the fire but there is no historical evidence that Paul was accused of the arson.   However you will also find stretched information in the book as well – in one section Paul recall being a young man while studying in Jerusalem and recall a time when a young boy was speaking to the religious leaders in the Temple when his parents came to find him.   He says he didn’t know then that it was Yeshua but now he realize that it was him.   At the end of the book, the author herself says that she guesses Paul’s age and put his timeline alongside the one of Christ.  However, there is no evidence that their paths crossed at the point in time. 

As I mentioned above I personally much prefer the book than the movie even though some scenes in the movie were speaking to me on an artistic level.   However, I am a bit disappointed on how the novel has stretched some of the truth but adding on what the Bible tells us.  It makes me uncomfortable when authors do this because it feels as though it is adding to the events.   There is no proof that Paul was present when young Jesus were speaking to teachers in the Temple.  So why adding this image in the mind of believers who will be reading the book I wonder…

Some people won’t mind have added details (even if not historical) in a book.  Personally when I read a book based on history, I would prefer to have as  much truth as possible.   Just know that this particular book is based on a screenplay and might offer some historical theories that are no proven or verified.

Paul Apostle of Christ – the book – is available at your favorite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Disclaimer: Film has been provided courtesy of Sony Entertainment Releasing Canada (Affirm Films) and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. I was not monetarily compensated for this post . Please note that the post was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

All Saints–the book

All Saints – The Surprising True Story of How Refugees from Burma Brought Life to a Dying Church
Written by Michael Spurlock and Jeanette Windle
Published at Bethany House

About the Book

The True Story Behind the Powerful Film ALL SAINTS.

Newly ordained, Michael Spurlock's first assignment is to pastor All Saints, a struggling church with twenty-five devoted members and a mortgage well beyond its means. The best option may be to close the church rather than watch it wither any further. But when All Saints hesitantly risks welcoming a community of Karen refugees from Burma--former farmers scrambling for a fresh start in America--Michael feels they may be called to an improbable new mission.

Michael must choose between closing the church and selling the property--or listening to a still, small voice challenging the people of All Saints to risk it all and provide much-needed hope to their new community. Together, they risk everything to plant seeds for a future that might just save them all.
Discover the true story that inspired the film while also diving deeper into the background of the Karen people, the church, and how a community of believers rally to reach out to those in need, yet receive far more than they dared imagine.

My Thoughts

Back in August, we had the privilege to watch the movie All Saints.  We had enjoyed the movie and when I was approached with the possibility to read the book I immediately was interested.  I know that often a movie won’t do the justice of the book itself.   And I was not disappointed with my decision to review this book.

First and foremost let me tell you that if you have watched the movie (or planning to watch it), you definitively need to read the book as well.   Why?  Well the book All Saints is packed with historical background that will unfold right under your eyes as you read it.  Not only will you read about the past of Michael Spurlock and his family but you will also follow the Karen refugees to their new life in the U.S. as well as the life of Ye Win who will become the leader of the Karen refugees.   Slowly, the story will set itself and you will follow the characters as they come to a point of crossing each other’s paths.  

I personally find the book very interesting as it goes back and forth between the life of Michael and the life of Ye Win.   Going back and forth between the main characters is intriguing in many ways because you get exactly what they have experience during the same period of time.  The movie itself doesn’t do justice to the book I find but it was a great springboard to the whole story that is written in the pages of this book.

As I read through the pages of this book, I was reminded that we should not judge too quickly when strangers come through the doors of our church because these people might be sent by God himself for a purpose that we cannot even imagine at this point in time.   The book is an eye opener on how newcomers can be a blessings for a church.

The book is available for purchase at your favorite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

Disclaimer: The book has been provided courtesy of Bethany House Publishing and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own

Operation Christmas Child 2017

Samaritan’s Purse has been sending Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes throughout the world since 1993.  Exactly more than 146 millions Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes has brought joy in the life of many children who live in desperate circumstances.  Not only it bring a little bit of joy but it also bring hope when the message of God’s unconditional love is shared with these children.  Operation Christmas Child are collected in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Austria, Finland, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, and the United States.   Shoeboxes are distributed in more than 100 countries, on six continents.   This year the National Collection Week will be November 13-19, 2017.

Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes open door for Samaritan’s Purse to provide children, families, and communities access to clean water, food, clothing, shelter, medical assistance and more.  There is no barriers – languages, culture, geography, or politics – that will stop the gift of joy and hope to these children in need.

This year the season of packing the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes is already under way.  But it isn’t too late to participate.  You can get shoeboxes at churches throughout your city.  You do not have to get an official shoebox to participate.  You can also get a plastic shoebox at a store near you and fill it up with essentials that a child might need.  You can select to have your box given to a boy or a girl of various ages (2-4 years old, 5-9 years old, and 10-14 years old).

Are you wondering what you can pack in your shoebox?  Essentially  you could put school supplies, hygiene items, toys and other gifts, as well as a personal note.   In order to help to send the shoebox, a donation of 10$ is suggested.  Note that if you do not give over 20$ you will not received a tax receipt.  

Here’s some ideas of what can be included in a shoebox.

Toys: Include items that children will immediately embrace such as toy cars, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, toys that light up and make noise (with extra batteries), etc.

School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.

Non-liquid Hygiene Items: toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.

Accessories: T-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries), etc.

Crafts: Make your own items such as hair bows, finger puppets, and friendship bracelets.

However, some items are a big NO-NO.  See the list below of items to AVOID packing in the shoebox:  candy, toothpaste, used or damaged items, war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures, chocolate or food, fruit rolls or other fruit snacks, drink mixes (powdered or liquid), liquids or lotions, medications or vitamins, breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers, aerosol cans.

So as part of this campaign, I have received an Operation Christmas Child LEGO kit.   We have made the decision to build the box and send it as part of our OCC shoebox.  

My two youngest kids dutifully build the OCC LEGO shoebox one morning this week.  It was a special homeschool project for them.  They love building LEGO and it was a special project for them to do.  The kit contained bricks to build the shoebox and the wings as well as two minifigures, a bicycle and a dog.   We also inserted the instructions in the box.

And voilà the OCC LEGO shoebox is ready to go!

We then packed the minifigures, the bike, the dog and the wings inside the box before putting it in the real shoebox.   While packing the shoebox, Jasmine also inserted a few things that were small enough to go in it for more surprises (like elastics and a bracelet).

Jasmine packed the box carefully to make sure that everything could fit nicely in it.  She had picked school items, a washcloth, toothbrushes, brush, hair items, a ball, and a doll among other things.   Neatly packed at the bottom of the box was our OCC LEGO box which we hope will bring some smile to the little girl age 5-9 years old that will receive it.

Now all we have to do is bring it to our church when they will be collecting them.

If you are wondering where will the Canadian shoeboxes will be delivered this year, you can easily visualize their destination below.  Sometimes I wish I would know where exactly our shoebox will be heading.   But we pray that this shoebox will be a blessing for a little girl which could be close in age to our own daughter. 

You do not have to pack a shoebox if you do not have the time.  You can also pack one online at PackABox.ca.  It is a fun project to do as a family or with friends.  Organize a shoebox packing party if you want too.

​​

Disclaimer: This blog post was possible because I was selected by Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. to promote the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes from Samaritan’s Purse. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

All Saints

About the Movie

A great story with a biblical message, All Saints is an encouragement and challenge to believe boldly, love unconditionally and give selflessly. The film is based on the inspiring true story of salesman–turned–pastor Michael Spurlock (John Corbett), the tiny church he was ordered to shut down, and a group of refugees from Southeast Asia. Together, they risked everything to plant seeds for a future that might just save them all. Also starring Cara Buono and Barry Corbin. Look for it in theaters this fall!

Our Thoughts

We recently had the privilege to preview the upcoming movie All Saints via an online connection.   One evening we sat down with our children in order to watch the movie.   We enjoy watching movies based on true story and if you are like us I think you will like All Saints.

The story is about a man who has left the world of sales to become a pastor.   He and his family move in a tiny church – All Saints – but the goal of his superiors is to sell the land before moving him to another church.   However, through certain encounters, he decides to turn the land of the church into a farm in order to save it.   However, circumstances will put road blocks on his way and challenges will make things hard for him to do so.   I will not go into details on what happens in the movie but I thought it was interesting to see how the church came together in order to create this farm.

Though John Corbett (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) is amazing in his role of Rev. Michael Spurlock, I think my favorite character was  Forrest played by Barry Corbin.  Not only his comments brought laughter but his whole personality is present throughout the movie.  

One thing we had found while watching this movie is that there are times when the flow of the movie slows down quite a bit and it seems as though it drags.  But then something happen and the flow goes back to normal.   I find that a lot of faith based movie are like this and it is a bit disappointing.   It would be great if all faith based movies would have a consistency on the story line and that down part could be sped up a bit.

Nevertheless this is a great family movie to watch.   It presents how a church can be welcoming to refugees and how you can find solutions to ordeals where you least expect them to be.  

What does the Bible says about refugees?   http://origin-flash.sonypictures.com/ist/allsaints_resources/AllSaints_Infographic1_RefugessInBible.pdf

Read the article of the real Rev. Michael Spurlock on how welcoming refugees saved his dying church.

Are you curious about All Saints?  You can watch the trailer here.

Numerous resources are available for All Saints on the website including a discussion guide.

All Saints Opening Theatres (August 25th & advance showings August 24th).   It would make a great date night movie for adults, a great time at the movie for families, as well as a great church event if you want to organize a movie night for your congregation.  Below you will find where in Canada the movie will be showed.  This list was updated on August 15th.   I have highlighted in red where the movie will be shown in my area.

Ontario
Galaxy 12 Barrie
Silvercity 12 Burlington
Silvercity Stony Creek Hamilton
Galaxy 10 Waterloo
Cineplex Odeon Westmount 11 London + VIP
Silvercity Gloucester + IMAX
Cineplex Cinemas Vaughan IMAX + AVX
Silvercity 16 Brampton
Queensway 20 AVX + VIP Etobicoke
Cineplex Odeon Winston Churchill Cinemas Oakville
Landmark 10 Pen Centre St. Catharines
Landmark 24 Whitby
Devonshire Mall 12 Windsor
Eglinton Towne Centre Scarborough

Manitoba
Silvercity 14 Polo Park + IMAX Winnipeg

Saskatchewan
Scotiabank Saskatoon

Alberta
Scotiabank Theatre Chinook 16 + IMAX Calgary
Landmark 16 Country Hills Calgary
South Edmonton Commons 16
North Edmonton 14 Cinemas
Galaxy 11 Red Deer

British Columbia
Cineplex Cinemas Abbotsford & VIP
Cineplex Cinemas Langley + IMAX
Silvercity Coquitlam

Nova Scotia
Scotiabank Theatre Halifax + IMAX

PEI
Cineplex Cinemas Charlottetown

Disclaimer: The link to the movie has been provided courtesy of Sony Canada and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

The Case for Christ

About the Movie

A hard-driving journalist, Lee Strobel (Mike Vogel) was exactly where he expected to be at work: on top. His award-winning investigative reporting recently earned him a promotion to legal editor at the Chicago Tribune. But things weren’t going nearly as well at home where his wife Leslie’s (Erika Christensen) newfound faith in Christ went against everything Lee believed—or didn’t believe—as an avowed atheist.

Utilizing his journalistic and legal training, Lee begins a quest to debunk the claims of Christianity in order to save his crumbling marriage. Chasing down the biggest story of his career, Lee comes face-to-face with unexpected results that could change everything he knows to be true.

Our Thoughts

Last night we had the privilege to watch The Case for Christ as a family.   My husband and I were no stranger to the story because we had read the book when it first came out many years ago.   For those of you who do not know the story behind the movie let me tell you that it is an incredible investigating journey as an attempt to discredit Jesus Christ on many aspects of his life, death and resurrection.  This investigation is triggered by the fact that his wife becomes a Christian at some point in time. Through the process, the reporter discover that the claims of Christianity are solid and his faith moves from atheist to believer.  He himself realizes that Jesus Christ is true and real.

The movie highlights the main ideas find in the book (I still think the book contains many more interesting results of his investigation and is worth reading!).   The movie portrays the 1980s very well with décor as well as the clothes, hairdos and so many more details that were well thought of in the movie.  As for the storyline itself, I find that it was a very good representation of what we have read in the book.   

We also found that the movie was really well made in a sense that there was no dragging scenes or pauses throughout the story.  Sometimes we find that faith based movies possess some scenes that just take a long time to be finished.  This is not happening in The Case for Christ.   There was a good flow in the storyline and sometimes you would see flashback from the past when the main character pondered on his relationship with his wife before she became a Christian.

Our whole family, 2 adults and 4 kids ages 9, 11, 13 and 16, enjoyed the movie.   As parents we find that it is essential to expose our kids to true-life stories and The Case for Christ is a great example of how a person who “investigate” can become a Christian.     The movie is absolutely family friendly I find.  Be aware that there will be scene where the main character, Lee Strobel, will go to bars to drink as well as come back home drunk.  Nevertheless, I find this movie to be a great movie to watch as a family and trigger discussion for days or weeks to come.   My plan now is to schedule the reading of the youth edition of the books that Lee Strobel wrote – Case for Christ, Case for Faith and Case for a Creator – as part of their homeschool assignments this year.   They are all in age to be able to understand the concepts presented in the books. 

I would highly recommend The Case for Christ for family movie night to anyone.   It can also be a tool for a discussion with your teens and/or non-believer friends.   I know that a movie guide is available for purchase in order to trigger the discussion after watching the movie.  

You can Watch the trailer here.  

The Case for Christ came out on DVD, Blu-ray, and for digital download on August 15th, and is available at amazon.ca and amazon.com.

DVD

 

Blu-Ray

 

Official Movie Guide

Disclaimer: The link to the movie has been provided courtesy of Mongrel Media and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

One Dominion

One Dominion – Celebrating Canada – Prepared for a Purpose
Published at Bible League Canada

About the book

One Dominion: Celebrating Canada, Prepared for a Purpose invites readers into an exploratory journey through Canada’s history, highlighting key moments of faith and Christian influence, from the founding of educational institutions and hospitals, to the creation of countless charitable organizations and architectural masterpieces. With inspiring accounts of individuals who founded our country upon the Living Word of God, One Dominion helps readers uncover a deeper understanding of Canada’s foundations and futures, through Scripture and the tests of faith passed by those who have gone before.

In this carefully crafted book, Paul Richardson, President of Bible League Canada, and Bob Beasley, Vice President of International Ministry at Bible League Canada, identify Canada’s purpose and mandate as a nation, as inscribed on the Peace Tower of Parliament Hill: “He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.” (Psalm 72:8 KJV) Through stunning photography and enthralling historical accounts, this book is designed to instill confidence and hope in the Christians of Canada and encourage them to steward well the resources, opportunities, and peace with which this country has been blessed. Richardson encourages, “Canadians have much to be thankful for, past, present, and future, and much to steward well, both at home and for the benefit of other countries. This is a great reminder of just that.”

My thoughts

I am pleased to promote the book One Dominion that was published by Bible League Canada this year in honor of Canada’s 150^th birthday.    The book is essentially a coffee table book that reflects on the Christian heritage of Canada of the past, present, and future.   The book covers the purpose and mandate of our nation based on the scripture that was chosen for Canada’s motto – PSALM 72:8 (KJV).

As I mentioned above, I consider it as a coffee table book.   The book is larger than normal (10” x 12”) and could be difficult to handle when reading it.   It is feasible though.  But apart from the size issue that I have noticed, the book is an absolute gem of history for Canadian Christian because it will highlight the Christian heritage we have as a nation.   I have learned quite a bit while flipping through the pages and reading it.   Not only does this book displays stunning photographs but it contains a timeline highlighting some of the main events in this history of Canada.

The chapter that I have found the most interesting was Chapter 4 where I learned quite a lot about the Peace Tower.  From the information I have gleaned in that chapter I have learned that the Peace Tower was built in 1917 following a fire on Parliament Hill and that it contains Scripture verses at the top.   And yes, this make me want to plan a visit to go at the top of the Peace Tower sometime this year because apparently they will close the Centre Block in 2018 for a decade for much needed construction repairs.   I am in awe of the fact that numerous scripture verses are found over the windows and in the stained glass windows.    All three windows – east, south and west – boldly proclaim the Word of God.  Not only these windows are a testimony of our Christian heritage.   At the top of the Peace Tower, a carillon ring 15 minutes each day at noon.  This carillon is composed of 53 bells and the largest of them also has a scripture verse  inscribed in it which was requested by Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King.   The scripture of this bell is Luke 2:14 (KJV) “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will to men.”     These are some of the things I didn’t know when I opened the book One Dominion and I will never forget the Christian Heritage that is found in the Peace Tower.   I was telling my oldest son, age 16, about it this morning and even he thought that it was cool that these scriptures are found at the top of the tower in the Centre Block on the Canadian Parliament.

I think this book would be a fabulous addition to your personal library for various reasons: it does highlight the Christian Heritage of Canada and it is a great souvenir to possess for the celebration of our country’s 150^th birthday.

One Dominion is available for purchase directly from Bible League Canada for the price of 29.99$.  

Disclaimer: The book has been provided courtesy of Bible League Canada and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

The Resurrection of Gavin Stone DVD

The Resurrection of Gavin Stone

About the movie

The Resurrection of Gavin Stone is an inspirational comedy rated PG about faith and forgiveness. Gavin Stone, a washed-up former child star is forced to do community service at a local mega- church and pretends to be a Christian so he can land the part of Jesus in their annual Passion Play only to discover that the most important role of his life is far from Hollywood.

Our Thoughts

When my kids saw the image of the poster their first reaction was “Hey Mom, this is Ward!”    You have to know that we are listening to Marvel Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. to know who Ward is.  But yes the main actor that plays Gavin Stone in this movie is indeed Brett Dalton.

The movie start a bit differently that most movies out there.  It was a bit confusing at first but the story unfold itself before you as you watch it.   It is slow to start we have found but with time you can see that the actors are getting more comfortable with each other.  

Gavin Stone has hit rock bottom and he is required to do some community time at a church in his hometown.   At first he doesn’t want to but realizing that his only option would be to stay in prison he reluctantly agrees to the deal.  He will also have to stay with his father with whom he has cut the communication for such a long time.

While starting to do his hours at a church in town, he realizes that they are putting a play.  He expresses a desire to be part of it seeing that he has experience – going to the point that he will “fake” being a Christian.  However, what he has not realized is that slowly but surely he will realize that these people are authentic.  He will discover what it is to live as a Christian with his interactions of a variety of characters.  After meeting the lady in charge of the play, he expresses a desire to get to know her better.  At first she is hesitant in opening up to him but eventually a spark seems to melt her resistance.   However, when it is almost time for the play to be on stage, Gavin Stone received a phone call that will  change everything.  Will it be for the better or for the worse?   I won’t tell you because then I would give away the best part of the movie.

Watching this movie was relaxing.  My husband and I started to watch it on Good Friday when our boys were at a youth rally in town.   We enjoyed it and thought that our kids could also watch it.  So as I am writing this, my three boys and my girl are watchin the Resurrection of Gavin Stone together in the living room.  They laughed a few times so far too.    The movie is a faith-based movie so you will have references from the bible and the play is based on the life of Christ.   Seeing the play was also inspiring I find because it was a great way to visualize the life of Christ.  

The movie is rated PG and anyone in your family could watch it.  You can rest assure that there will be no sex, no nudity, no violence, and no profanity either.  

If you are looking for a family movie that will be inspirational, I think this movie should be one to consider.  However, do not expect bit production like the movies released in theaters that had an enormous budget.  Keep in mind that this movie was made with a budget of 2,000,000$ and was filmed in 20 days.  The movie is about 92 minutes long.

The Resurrection of Gavin Stone will be out in DVD soon so watch the DVD aisle at your favorite store.  You can also pre-order it on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Disclaimer: The link to the movie has been provided courtesy of Mongrel Media and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Words of Grace

Words of Grace
By Jacqui Grace and Dee Arrand
Published at Bethany House

About the book

Be Amazed by God's Grace!

Bring new joy to your time in God's Word by incorporating beauty and creativity. As a gentle tonic for the busyness and worries of your life, this travel-sized coloring book devotional will help you focus your attention and calm your hurried soul.

Each page spread includes Scripture, devotional thoughts, and images to color that are all designed to reconnect you with the God who knows your every need. Grab your colored pencils, crayons, or markers and set yourself free to create. But most importantly: relax, have fun, and be blessed by God's grace.

My Thoughts

When I received this book to review, my first impression was primary based on the size of it.   The book is not very large nor thick for that matter.  But there is a saying that says “do not judge a book by its cover” right?  So who was I to think that this book was less important than another devotional which has hundreds of page?   I proceeded to explore the book before passing any further judgment on it.

This is a devotional book that will also allow the reader to color the pages while you reflect on what you have just read. This book contains exactly twenty-eight devotions divided into four weeks based on specific themes.  The themes are the following:

• Week 1: Knowing Who You Are
• Week 2: Intimacy with God
• Week 3: When Life Gets Tough
• Week 4: Now This is Living!

Each week contain a devotion for each day.  Through these devotions, you will learn to discover who you are, how to live intimately with God, remember that you can rely on Him at all times, and spread you wings in the world.   You can spend more time reflecting on the teaching you have just read by coloring the opposite page.  Sometimes you will have a little drawing on the devotion’s page as well.  

In conclusion, I think this little devotion book is fun for whoever likes to color as well.   I am saying this because recently as I was drawing in one of my books, someone looked at what I was doing and said “Oh you are one of those…”  I was surprised but when the person told me she really hate coloring then I could understand her comment better.  However, that small comment had other consequences on me like doubts and insecurity creeping slowly…. but in the end I decided to embrace my coloring because I find it is relaxing and it provides healing in my life.

Words of Grace is available for purchase at your favourite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Disclaimer: The book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Between Heaven and the Real World My Story

Between Heaven & the Real World My Story
Written by Steven Curtis Chapman with Ken Abraham
Published at Revell

About the book

Experience the moments that made Christian music history

For decades, Steven Curtis Chapman's music and message have brought hope and inspiration to millions. Now, for the first time, Steven openly shares the experiences that have shaped him, his faith, his family, and his music in a life that has included incredible highs and faith-shaking lows.

From childhood, music has been both a refuge and a release for Steven. With humor and humility, he offers a backstage look at his early days on the road and his wild ride to the top of the charts. Discover the stories behind some of his best-loved songs. Walk with him as he and his wife, Mary Beth, navigate the joys and trials of marriage and family. Cheer for his return to the stage after doubting he could ever sing again. And SEE God in the aftermath of the tragic death of their five-year-old daughter Maria.
Poignant, gut-wrenchingly honest, yet always hopeful, Steven offers no sugary solutions to life's toughest questions. Yet out of the brokenness, he continues to trust God to one day fix what is unfixable in the space between heaven and the real world.

My Thoughts

I find it is always nice to read an autobiography of an artist every once in a while.   Like it or not, we have a tendency as human beings to uplift them to a pedestal and to think that they have the best of lives.   Reading an autobiography you can be guaranteed that the artist in question was involved in the process of writing the book hence you can have a perspective of his/her life through his/her own eyes.   

So when I signed up to review the new autobiography of Steven Curtis Chapman, I knew I would have a peek in his past and discover more about his life at the same time.    I have received an Advanced Reading Copy so that I can peruse and discover the life of this artist whom we know in our house.  And let me tell you that you will not be disappointed when reading it.  The writing style is very intimate which will transport you almost in the living room of Steven where he will tell you his story.   Not only do you learn about his debut in music but you will also learn more about his parents, his wife and children, his rise to become the Christian artist that he is today and all the ups and downs of his life.

I found the book to be uplifting and particularly encouraging.   We have a son who is pretty good at music and at times he will write his own songs.   We want to encourage his interest in music for sure.    Reading about how Steven navigated the industry is an eye opener I find.   I will strongly suggest to my fifteen year old son to consider reading this book.  I seriously think it would be good for him to do so.

If you enjoy Steven Curtis Chapma’s music and would like to learn more about how he grew up, what he did while growing up, how he embarked on a journey to become an artist, I think this book will be a delight for you.   It is easy to read and the chapters will hook you from the beginning of the book.

Between Heaven & the Real World My Story is available at your favorite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

It is also available for Kindle and Kindle App.

 

Disclaimer: The Advanced Reading Copy of this book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Everything Is Possible

Everything Is Possible – Finding the Faith & Courage to Follow Your Dreams
Writteb by Jen Bricker
Published at Baker Books a division of Baker Publishing Group

About the book

Strength in Belief

When Jen Bricker was born without legs, her shocked biological parents were uncertain they could care for her and gave her up for adoption. In her loving adoptive home, there was just one simple rule: "Never say 'can't.'" And pretty soon there was nothing this small but mighty powerhouse set her sights on that she couldn't conquer, including roller-skating, volleyball, power tumbling, and spinning from silk fabric thirty feet in the air.

Everything Is Possible is her incredible story--a story of God working out his plan for her life from before day one. Let Jen show you what you can accomplish when you remove the words coincidence and can't from your vocabulary.

Filled with heart and spirit, as well as Jen's wit, wisdom, and no-holds-barred honesty, this inspiring true story points the way to purpose and joy.

My Thoughts

It is always nice to read an uplifting book every once in a while.  The story of Jen Bricker is not exception.  It makes you realize that there is no point whatsoever in always thinking negatively while living your life.  When you see a person like Jen and think that she might not have any hope in her future, always remember that God can use that person in ways you cannot imagine yourself.  

Jen was born without legs but this did not stop her in have big aspirations and wanting to try anything.  Early on she was a very determine little girl who only desired to try out everything she found fascinating – even gymnastic.  She did not stop there and she continue to dream big and follow whatever opened up to her.    She has been blessed beyond measure with the family who adopted her despite the fact that she did not had legs.  She was covered with love not only by her immediate family but by many people who came in contact with her as she grew to become the young woman she is today.   As you read through the book and learn more about her journey you can sense that she feels sorry for the people who judge her or compare their own kids to herself.

I suspect not everyone would have been able to become successful in life like she did despite the challenges.   It takes a lot of strong will and dedication for someone with a disability to rise above their peers.   But dedication and enthusiasm are definitely two things that Jen had in her heart and bad comments did not slowed her down a minute.

The book also contains numerous photos of her growing up and how she uses her skills in life.   It is breathtaking to see her doing her signature pose in various places around the world or see how she never hesitate to expand her experiences in life.   

This book is a great autobiography to read if you are interested in knowing how someone born with no legs can become an amazing aerialist and motivational speaker.   It is her true story that is worth discovering because it is packed with great wisdom, honesty and joy.  

Everything is Possible is available for purchase at your favorite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Kindle

 

Disclaimer: The book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

A Sunday Horse

I recently had the opportunity of watching the movie A Sunday Horse with my family.  This movie has come out in DVD this week in Canada.

Synopsis: After a near-fatal accident on a horse that the experts thought was nothing special, a determined rider from the wrong side of the tracks defies all the odds to pursue her dreams of winning a national jumping championship.

The movie is based on the true story of Debi Walden Connor who was able to train a rough horse into a Olympic Medal champion.   As we sat down to watch the movie last week, I knew I would appreciate it when I realized that it was based on a true story.   I wasn’t disappointed.  The movie will stir a range of emotions from joy and determination to sadness.    You will realize how some people still have judgmental comments for people not at the same level of society of them, how some can be determined to the point of contradicting what other have said about your condition and how in the end you can come out stronger by keeping your faith and trusting the Lord in your life.

The flow of the story in the movie is constant and there is no downtime which could make it long.   It was just perfect for our family and we really enjoyed seeing the jumping scenes as well as the unfolding of the story.   The cast also include William Shatner, Nikki Reed, and Linda Hamilton, all actors that have made their marks in previous television shows and movies. 

If you have enjoyed horse movies like Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, Moondance Alexandrer, and Flicka, you will definitively enjoy A Sunday Horse.   I find it is a great family movie to watch and then have a discussion about certain scenes afterward.  If you are looking for a great movie to watch this week-end, swing by a store near you and get A Sunday Horse.

A Sunday Horse DVD is available in stores near you, even on amazon.ca.

  

Disclaimer: Movie has been provided courtesy of Mongrel Canada and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc via internet link for review purpose. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

God’s Not Dead 2 DVD

This week the movie God’s Not Dead 2 is being released on DVD.  I had the privilege to watch the movie on the net this week with my husband.  

As the title suggest it, this is the second movie with the words God’s Not Dead.   Though this is a second installment on the issue of the name of Jesus not being welcome in public places, this movie is different that the previous one because this time around the problem start within the wall of a classroom of an history class in high school.

A teacher who is loved by most of her students answer truthfully a question of one of her student.  In her answer she quote some words from Jesus and by doing so gets into trouble first with the school and school board and then in court due to her refusal to sign a paper saying she has been out of line.

I will not go into the details of the whole movie – which last about two hours – because then it would not make it interesting for you to check it out.   However, let me tell you that there is also a couple of intertwined stories throughout the movie.  And yes you will see the appearance of the Newsboys in the movie along with a few other prominent writers...   The part we enjoyed the most was when these writers explained why the Gospels are reliable.  

If you have seen the first movie, you will recognize some of the actors but the main characters are new actors for the most part.    

The movie was okay I suppose.  But I did not enjoy it as much as Miracles from Heaven which I wrote about not too long ago.  There were times where I found the movie was a bit slow in transiting between the scenes.  Personally I would have preferred to have a bit more action in the movie.  However, the quality of it is above what you would expect for a Christian movie.  Keep in mind that this movie is fictional – what I mean by that is that indeed there as been cases of teacher being sued for talking about Jesus in the past but the other issue for pastors mentioned in the movie is not happening at this point in time.    Maybe one day it will come to it but I do not believe it will be in a near future.

Finally, the movie contains numerous with positive elements from people sharing how their faith helps them through life, prayer examples, how we can encouragement one another as well as how to stand up for our faith in the midst of adversity. 

The movie God’s Not Dead 2 on DVD is available at your favourite store, even amazon.ca and amazon.com on DVD or Blu-Ray.

  

   

 

Disclaimer: Movie has been provided courtesy of Sony Entertainment Canada and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc via internet link for review purpose. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.