Science Fiction is very frightening in Christian circles. Oh, they know there's a huge market for it, but most are afraid to touch it either in book or film forms. Yet, both the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, the fathers of Christian Speculative fiction, have been adapted to film.
Let's talk about 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'. In the scene where Susan and Lucy watch as the witch torments and then kills Aslan, the viewer gets a hint of what if was like for Christ when he was mocked, beaten, had a thorn crown thrust upon his head, and then was forced to carry his own cross to be crucified on. Aslan is shaved, bound, and made fun of by the creatures who follow the White Witch.
Also, if one really examines the image shown, more deep truths present themselves - Christ's death was one of the biggest devil spirit parties in history. They thought they had won. They defeated God's plan - just like the White Witch thought she had, until Aslan returned restored - just as Christ did.
And, when watching the marriage scene in the extended version of 'Return of the King', the scene drips with symbolism. In it can be seen the wedding ceremony of Christ and his bride, the blooming tree of Life and many more than can be named.
So, is Science Fiction and Fantasy in Christian form really that frightening? Not when you see the path paved by the two who came before. Interesting part, the Lord of Rings trilogy was done by fan who might not even be a Christian, yet the director caught the true intent of the writer.
Recommended Christian Fantasy:
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Prince Caspain
Journey of the Dawn Trader (blogger has not yet seen the film)
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy - either original theater release or extended versions.
Horror:
Invisible Enemies - a pair of glasses allows a young man to see the demons all around us.
Science Fiction:
Unidentified - Two journalists, one Christian, one not, investigate reports on UFO's.
Time Changer - Time travel adventure. A bit preachy but interesting.
NOTE: Keep an eye on Christian Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror writers. God is opening doors big time for publication, both through Christian and secular houses.
Christian small press publishers : Marcher Lord Press & Splash Down Books plus a few others.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Why Not Question - Christian Romance Films
I discovered the Love Comes Softly series on Hallmark with the fifth film. It remains my favorite out of the seven. Why? Because it has everything. A lonely widow who comes to town to become the teacher after her husband's death. She and her young son move into a not too well cared for house. A young girl is taken in by our widow from the orphan trains they used to run from the big cities in an attempt to find homes for the children living on the streets. A sheriff who fell in love with the widow and who searches for the girl and her brother, placed in a abusive situation, when they run away. They're found through a simple act of faith - prayer - during a cold, pitch black and stormy night.
From there I went on to discover the rest of the series and purchase them as they come out. Why you ask? Because, unlike many woman who read or watch romances, I prefer nice, wholesome stories with no smut. Oh, I've read the sexy, steamy books. Don't think I haven't. But when it becomes the focus of the story instead of the relationship between the characters, I got tired of them. I much prefer a couple getting together with a common faith in God.
So, I moved on to Christian romances. The stories are interesting. I care about the characters. And often, they're well written or acted with the most physical intimacy being a kiss or holding hands. Sex is for after marriage - as it should be.
Quick update - Hallmark via FB has announced they are running two prequel movies on their channel to the Love Comes Softly series.
My list of Christian 'must see' romantic movies:
Love Comes Softly
Love's Enduring Promise
Love's Long Journey
Love's Abiding Joy
Love's Unending Legacy
Love's Unfolding Dream
Love Takes Wing
Love Finds a Home
Saving Sarah Cain
For those who enjoy Amish Stories.
Based on the book by Beverly Lewis.
Hidden Places
Set during the Great Depression.
From the book by Lynn Austin.
For those who like Biblical stories:
One Night with the King
The Bible Stories : Esther
Esther and the King - 1960
The Story of Ruth - an older film
There is a newer one but it is not as well done.
From there I went on to discover the rest of the series and purchase them as they come out. Why you ask? Because, unlike many woman who read or watch romances, I prefer nice, wholesome stories with no smut. Oh, I've read the sexy, steamy books. Don't think I haven't. But when it becomes the focus of the story instead of the relationship between the characters, I got tired of them. I much prefer a couple getting together with a common faith in God.
So, I moved on to Christian romances. The stories are interesting. I care about the characters. And often, they're well written or acted with the most physical intimacy being a kiss or holding hands. Sex is for after marriage - as it should be.
Quick update - Hallmark via FB has announced they are running two prequel movies on their channel to the Love Comes Softly series.
My list of Christian 'must see' romantic movies:
Love Comes Softly
Love's Enduring Promise
Love's Long Journey
Love's Abiding Joy
Love's Unending Legacy
Love's Unfolding Dream
Love Takes Wing
Love Finds a Home
Saving Sarah Cain
For those who enjoy Amish Stories.
Based on the book by Beverly Lewis.
Hidden Places
Set during the Great Depression.
From the book by Lynn Austin.
For those who like Biblical stories:
One Night with the King
The Bible Stories : Esther
Esther and the King - 1960
The Story of Ruth - an older film
There is a newer one but it is not as well done.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Why Not Question - 'Facing the Giants' - 'Bloom Where you're Planted'.
For a few weeks we're going to divert from studying Eastern culture to understand the Bible. Instead, the following brief series will be on Christian produced, acted or supported movies.
Today's film - 'Facing the Giants'.
"Bloom where you're planted."
This is an alien concept to many Americans. We're always looking off to horizon waiting for our big break or thinking the best job or opportunity we've been wanting is somewhere else.
Shannon Fields, who has the female lead in this film, told the story of how God put on her heart to become an actress but never opened a door to move to any place where she could make this dream come true. She just couldn't see how an opportunity could happen in the small town where she lived.
Then, something amazing happened. The Kendrick brothers wrote and decided to produce a Christian movie. She auditioned and won the part she played.
Now who would have ever thought that in small town in Georgia a film would be made.
Shannon never had. Yet, 'Facing the Giants' was the first stepping stone to fulfilling her dream to become an actress. Now she has moved to a larger town, still teaches and coaches the cheer leading team and takes acting classes.
More recently, she had a role in 'Suing the Devil'.
So, from this one example we can see how God can take an impossible situation and allow you to 'Bloom where you're planted'.
(Information shared about Shannon Fields from a talk she gave at Jubilee Fellowship Church a number of years back and from Facebook.)
Today's film - 'Facing the Giants'.
"Bloom where you're planted."
This is an alien concept to many Americans. We're always looking off to horizon waiting for our big break or thinking the best job or opportunity we've been wanting is somewhere else.
Shannon Fields, who has the female lead in this film, told the story of how God put on her heart to become an actress but never opened a door to move to any place where she could make this dream come true. She just couldn't see how an opportunity could happen in the small town where she lived.
Then, something amazing happened. The Kendrick brothers wrote and decided to produce a Christian movie. She auditioned and won the part she played.
Now who would have ever thought that in small town in Georgia a film would be made.
Shannon never had. Yet, 'Facing the Giants' was the first stepping stone to fulfilling her dream to become an actress. Now she has moved to a larger town, still teaches and coaches the cheer leading team and takes acting classes.
More recently, she had a role in 'Suing the Devil'.
So, from this one example we can see how God can take an impossible situation and allow you to 'Bloom where you're planted'.
(Information shared about Shannon Fields from a talk she gave at Jubilee Fellowship Church a number of years back and from Facebook.)
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Why Not Question - 'One Night with the King' - Recommended
'One Night with the King' is a well done movie and highly recommended for those who love the story of Esther. Not only does it show the love shared between the king and queen, but also the customs of the time and the constant threats against the Persian ruler's life. A poisoning attempt was over heard by Mordecai and passed on saving Ahasuerus from certain death.
The protrayal of Esther is well done and shows the heart of the young woman as shown in the Bible. She wins favor with the eunuchs, is favored with a special robe when she goes to the king, and wins the crown of Persia.
Now, much of what goes on the film is lost on the Western audience as the customs are not really understood. For instance, the comment that the women would be allowed to keep their jewelry. It is one of the few things that Eastern women are permitted to own. No doubt they were traded for special favors or items.
Also, the time of purification where the women who were to go into the king spent learning the manners of the court and being bathed so that their skin was soft and scented and therefore pleasurable to the king.
One thing that is not mentioned but shown is the King's quick temper. Historically, this is noted. His anger cost many their lives. This made Esther's position very dangerous and she knew it. This little known fact magnifies the courage of a woman destined to save her people for certain death.
There are many more events shown in the film that help the Western mind understand the culture.
Final word. See the film.
The protrayal of Esther is well done and shows the heart of the young woman as shown in the Bible. She wins favor with the eunuchs, is favored with a special robe when she goes to the king, and wins the crown of Persia.
Now, much of what goes on the film is lost on the Western audience as the customs are not really understood. For instance, the comment that the women would be allowed to keep their jewelry. It is one of the few things that Eastern women are permitted to own. No doubt they were traded for special favors or items.
Also, the time of purification where the women who were to go into the king spent learning the manners of the court and being bathed so that their skin was soft and scented and therefore pleasurable to the king.
One thing that is not mentioned but shown is the King's quick temper. Historically, this is noted. His anger cost many their lives. This made Esther's position very dangerous and she knew it. This little known fact magnifies the courage of a woman destined to save her people for certain death.
There are many more events shown in the film that help the Western mind understand the culture.
Final word. See the film.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Why Not Question - Why was Elizabeth's lineage so important?
A lot of time has been spent using word studies to better understand the Bible and posing questions which can be answered by using the technique. Now, it is time to cover some of the Biblical customs of the day to better understand scriptures.
Luke 1:5 KJV
There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia; and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.
Notice the importance made of Elizabeth by saying she was a daughter of Aaron. Ever wonder why?
From 'Manners and Customs of the Bible' by James M. Freeman
'Great care was taken in the selection of wives for the Jewish priests, so that the line of the priests might be kept in every respect unsulled. "It was lawful lawful for a priest to marry a Levitess, or indeed, a daughter of Israel; but is was most commendable of all to marry one of the priests' line." Zacharias was specially honored in having his wife one of the descendants of Aaron.'
Interesting to see that the mother of John, the one who proclaimed Christ's coming, was a direct descendant of Aaron, brother of Moses and the voice for his brother before pharoah. How fitting the role should be repeated with the coming of Christ.
Luke 1:5 KJV
There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia; and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.
Notice the importance made of Elizabeth by saying she was a daughter of Aaron. Ever wonder why?
From 'Manners and Customs of the Bible' by James M. Freeman
'Great care was taken in the selection of wives for the Jewish priests, so that the line of the priests might be kept in every respect unsulled. "It was lawful lawful for a priest to marry a Levitess, or indeed, a daughter of Israel; but is was most commendable of all to marry one of the priests' line." Zacharias was specially honored in having his wife one of the descendants of Aaron.'
Interesting to see that the mother of John, the one who proclaimed Christ's coming, was a direct descendant of Aaron, brother of Moses and the voice for his brother before pharoah. How fitting the role should be repeated with the coming of Christ.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Why Not Question - What is the Behemoth in Job?
Job 40:15 KJV Behold now behemoth (a large beast), which I made (bring forth, to do) with thee; he eateth grass (grass, hay, herb, leek) as an ox.
There is much speculation as to what the behemoth is in this verse. The more conservative say it is an elephant or hippopotamus. Others say a crocodile. There has even been those who say it is a dinosaur.
However, when the entire description is put together, another beast rises that has not even been considered. In Job 40:15-18 & 41:14-31 there is more description of this creature.
Strength is in the loins and navel of the belly - moves the tail like a cedar - which is a very big tree - sinews of his stones are wrapped together - bones strong as brass - bones like bars of iron
scales shut up together with a close seal - teeth are terrible - big eyes-
burning lamps come out of his mouth - sparks of fire leap out - does this sound like an elephant or hippo? out of the nostrils comes smoke like a seething pot or kettle - breath kindles flame - and flame comes out of his mouth - now what creature in mythology does this?
flakes of his flesh is joined together - heart firm as stone - when he raises up the mighty are afraid - sword against him can't hold - nor any other weapon - they're easily broken - makes the water boil -
And in verse 33 - Upon earth there is not his like, who is made without fear.
Hmmm, putting together all the pieces suggests that the behemoth of Job is actually a Sea Serpent or Dragon. Which raises another question particularly the fear those of the Middle Ages had of the beasts - were they actually once real and hunted to extinction?
The verses in Job seem to suggest that the creatures actually existed.
Side note - in a documentary there is mention of a writing from someone during the middle ages who gave such an in depth description of the anatomy of a dragon that the person must have had an actual carcass to study.
There is much speculation as to what the behemoth is in this verse. The more conservative say it is an elephant or hippopotamus. Others say a crocodile. There has even been those who say it is a dinosaur.
However, when the entire description is put together, another beast rises that has not even been considered. In Job 40:15-18 & 41:14-31 there is more description of this creature.
Strength is in the loins and navel of the belly - moves the tail like a cedar - which is a very big tree - sinews of his stones are wrapped together - bones strong as brass - bones like bars of iron
scales shut up together with a close seal - teeth are terrible - big eyes-
burning lamps come out of his mouth - sparks of fire leap out - does this sound like an elephant or hippo? out of the nostrils comes smoke like a seething pot or kettle - breath kindles flame - and flame comes out of his mouth - now what creature in mythology does this?
flakes of his flesh is joined together - heart firm as stone - when he raises up the mighty are afraid - sword against him can't hold - nor any other weapon - they're easily broken - makes the water boil -
And in verse 33 - Upon earth there is not his like, who is made without fear.
Hmmm, putting together all the pieces suggests that the behemoth of Job is actually a Sea Serpent or Dragon. Which raises another question particularly the fear those of the Middle Ages had of the beasts - were they actually once real and hunted to extinction?
The verses in Job seem to suggest that the creatures actually existed.
Side note - in a documentary there is mention of a writing from someone during the middle ages who gave such an in depth description of the anatomy of a dragon that the person must have had an actual carcass to study.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Why Not Question: Do pets go to heaven?
There is a great deal of speculation as to whether or not pets go to heaven and are later reunited with their owners. Since there is no Biblical basis for the answer, the writer of this blog will share a personal experience.
Acts 2:17 KJV And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh: and you sons and your daughters shall prophesy(publicly expound), and your young men shall see visions (act of seeing, sight, inspired appearance) , and you old men shall dream (happens in sleep, frequently) dreams.
Galations 3:28c KJV ...there is neither male nor female; for ye are all one (literally one) in Christ Jesus.
Now the reason these two verses are shared is that first, Acts 2:17 says that God's people will have visions and dream dreams. It also specifies men, however, since we are all are one in Christ Jesus, this includes women as well. Now, it has to understood that in Paul's time, men normally were the ones who led. God has made exceptions to this with a woman judge -Deborah and with Esther the queen saving her people, so we can see God will use whomever is needed at the time.
That being said, here is what the blogger is sharing about pets going to heaven based on believers ability to have visions - the act of seeing.
L.O. died when she was 19. I had had her for seventeen years. I point blank asked God where she was. The vision I was shown was of L.O. in her new body, it didn't quite look like her but I knew it was, playing at Jesus feet. She bounced out of heaven briefly to rub against my ankle in a final good bye before she went back.
A few days later, she meowed right outside the bedroom door. Now, yes, there are other cats in the house, but like any good mother, you always know the voice of your child. So did I know the voice of each cat.
A year and half later T. was very ill. I took her to the vet, found out she was sick beyond medical help, and made the difficult decision to put her to sleep. Just as the vet was putting the needle into her leg, L.O. appeared. I knew the moment the two were reunited because L.O. jumped as if the two were playing. Not long afterward I saw the soul, breath life not the spirit, of T. pass.
Two weeks later, T. came around the corner in the kitchen and vanished.
Since L.O. is in heaven and Jesus is caring for her, I saw the two reunited, I know T. also is there waiting. I have the promise that all my furred children will be returned to me when I arrive.
So, yes, I do believe that Christian's pets go to heaven.
Acts 2:17 KJV And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh: and you sons and your daughters shall prophesy(publicly expound), and your young men shall see visions (act of seeing, sight, inspired appearance) , and you old men shall dream (happens in sleep, frequently) dreams.
Galations 3:28c KJV ...there is neither male nor female; for ye are all one (literally one) in Christ Jesus.
Now the reason these two verses are shared is that first, Acts 2:17 says that God's people will have visions and dream dreams. It also specifies men, however, since we are all are one in Christ Jesus, this includes women as well. Now, it has to understood that in Paul's time, men normally were the ones who led. God has made exceptions to this with a woman judge -Deborah and with Esther the queen saving her people, so we can see God will use whomever is needed at the time.
That being said, here is what the blogger is sharing about pets going to heaven based on believers ability to have visions - the act of seeing.
L.O. died when she was 19. I had had her for seventeen years. I point blank asked God where she was. The vision I was shown was of L.O. in her new body, it didn't quite look like her but I knew it was, playing at Jesus feet. She bounced out of heaven briefly to rub against my ankle in a final good bye before she went back.
A few days later, she meowed right outside the bedroom door. Now, yes, there are other cats in the house, but like any good mother, you always know the voice of your child. So did I know the voice of each cat.
A year and half later T. was very ill. I took her to the vet, found out she was sick beyond medical help, and made the difficult decision to put her to sleep. Just as the vet was putting the needle into her leg, L.O. appeared. I knew the moment the two were reunited because L.O. jumped as if the two were playing. Not long afterward I saw the soul, breath life not the spirit, of T. pass.
Two weeks later, T. came around the corner in the kitchen and vanished.
Since L.O. is in heaven and Jesus is caring for her, I saw the two reunited, I know T. also is there waiting. I have the promise that all my furred children will be returned to me when I arrive.
So, yes, I do believe that Christian's pets go to heaven.
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