Esther - Vashti's refusal

The Bible, like any other book, must be read in context to when it was written. Like in Literature classes in college, those who truly wish to understand the significance of certain verses, there is need to understand the custom behind it. Let's start in the book of Esther. In the movie 'One Night with the King' those around the Persian Ruler made him think his wife was having a feast to protest the war. The Bible says she had a feast for the women. (1:9) Truth was women had their feasts separately from the men. It was an ancient custom and one could say Persia was 'behind the times'. So when the King sent for Vashti, he was violating the tradition of the day and she was justified in her refusal, regardless of his reaction. Reference: Bible Manners and Customs. Page 203.

'Why Not Question' : Movie Review - 'Jerusalem Countdown'

Ripped right of today's headlines, 'Jerusalem Countdown' tells the story of FBI agents who are trying to stop terrorists from bombing various US cities with nuclear weapons. Oddly enough, they discover the government has a plan in place in the event of rapture and both are thrown into shock as they try to stop the deaths of the Israel's leaders. Well written this film keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. Some of the failures are shocking and realistic. Hero's don't always win. The ending poses many questions and desire to see what eventually happens to the FBI agents. Also presented is an interesting take on the rapture that is not to be missed. On a scale of 1 to 5 this film is a strong 4.5. Highly recommended for those who love spy thrillers.

'Why Not Question' : Movie Review - 'The Grace Card'

A horrible accident claims the life child. It is carried around by the family for years. The wife, finally tired of the mess, goes to counseling for help. In the mean time, her husband's partner is a part-time pastor with a family who would love to be n the ministry full-time but their poor church doesn't pay a high enough salary to allow it. Their situations thrown together with a series of robberies, provides a powerful background for the story. This film has strong characters and touching circumstances to reach all audiences. Disappointing is the small part 'the Grace Card' actually plays since it is not even introduced until halfway through the story and then disappears pretty much until the emotional ending. It is well written and few could not identify with any of the characters caught up in their problems and day to day disappointing lives. Still, God's hand in during these dire straights is clearly shown. On a scale from 1, the lowest to 5 the highest, this film earns a 3.5.

'Why Not Question" : Movie Review - 'WWJD What would Jesus do?'

'WWJD What would Jesus do?' focuses in on a church and town that is fading. Faith is low and the leadership of the town would do anything, including demolishing the church to put in a casino to save their town. Enter a drifter whose challenging words seem to impact the community who no one would help or give him a job. Although this film is a bestseller and has a stellar cast, the plot line is somewhat disappointing and the dropped angle of drifter's involvement half way through the story lessons the impact of the final outcome. 'WWJD' is however, a lovely family film and has some great music and poignant moments. Recommended but only earns a rating of 2.5 on a scale from 1 to 5.

'Why Not Question' : Movie Review - 'What if...'

'What If...' follows the tradition of 'It's a Wonderful Life' or 'The Family Man' allowing a successful investment banker to discover what his life would have been like if he'd followed God's plan for his life rather than his own. With the help of an angel named Mike, protrayed by John Ratzenberger, Ben Walker (Ken Sorbo) takes a walk from being single and rich to being a pastor of a failing church, married and father of two daughters.

The film is filled with humorous moments and strong emotional ones. The dead fish scenes are just too funny for any parent who has had to help a child deal with the death of a pet. Not to mention the final outcome and solution. Or a teen daughter liking a guy and how 'dad' over reacts and does the wrong thing.

Awarded the Dove Award for Family Seal of Approval the film is highly recommended for those who enjoy Christian films.

'Why Not Question' : Movie Review - 'Game of Your Life'

'Game of Your Life' is the last of the Walmart Family Movie Night series. It follows a young man leaving home to attend a creative college specializing in Gaming. He meets his teammates, is challenged to break the 'no consulting' rule due to dire family circumstances back home. He is taken off his team and has to learn what really is important - holding onto the past or moving forward into his future. This film very much focuses on the Gaming world, complete with geeks who act and dress differently. Some of the references are lost on the general public but no doubt resonates with those who are part of this sub culture. The unique strengths of the characters presented, for instance the leader of thee, team who tells the main hero he's off the team for his lack of focus and breaking the rules, who risks him not talking to her again. The comedy team who are both his room and team mates and spice up the movie although their somewhat cliche'. Also, the couple who helps them acting both as mentors and away from home parents. It is a 'coming of age' story. In some ways it reminds the blogger of films like 'Uncle Buck' and 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer', the film. Definitely recommended for those with children who are hard core gamers. On a scale from 1 to 5, this film is a 3.5.

'Why Not Question' : Movie Review - 'Game Time Tackling the Past'

'Game Time Tackling the Past' depicts a professional football player on the decline of his career. He returns home due to a family emergency, reconnects with them, and discovers a new passion for the sport that is not self serving or self centered.

The movie shows what can happen to someone when they live only for themselves and how what appears to be a tragedy or ruin, can actually work into something far better than a dream now past its prime. Filled with emotional moments and new friendships, this film shows the power of forgiveness and love.

There are also some faith filled moments depicted.

Many parts of this film reminds the viewer of moments in 'Facing the Giants' or 'Flywheel'.

On a scale of 1 to 5, this film is a 4.