Now You See Me

  I must say a lot of these upcoming posts may be about movie reviews. I think it's important to be able to look at movies through a theological lens/perspective. Because, entertainment and movies are one of the most powerful ways which ideas, thoughts, lifestyles, and view points are communicated. I really honestly believe that if you want to see what a society looks like look no further than the movies they watch, the books they read, and the music they listen to. With all that being said are hope is to continue to provide our readers with honest, intentional looks at the movies in our society today.

  I must be honest, I really like movies, and I really enjoyed Now You See Me. If you've been to a movie in the past few months there is a really good chance that you've seen a preview for Now You See Me, it is a movie about four rogue magicians who some how get brought together by a force/person they are unaware of. But, they all come together for one reason: they want to join The Eye one of the most sacred/prestigious accolades for a magician. (Note: The Eye is a fictional aspect of the movie) As they begin their quest to join the eye they are told they need to preform in three separate venues and conclude each evening with a MAJOR trick. The first major trick as is seen in movie trailers is the group brings a man up at the end of their first show in Vegas, they transport the man to his bank, and the man proceeds to rob the bank. Once the man returns the magicians, who are called the Four Horsemen, rain all the money from the bank's vault to all the people in the audience. The crowd is stunned that the final trick of the night was robbing a bank of three million dollars.

  Needless to say this enrages the FBI, and they desire to arrest and bring down the Four Horsemen. However, the group is very evasive and that proves to be easier said than done. A very exciting plot twist is that in the audience of each of the Horsemen's shows is a magician debunker named Thaddeous Bradley (played by Morgan Freemen), and Bradley's goal throughout the movie is expose the Horsemen as frauds. Whether he does it or not you'll just have to watch the movie and see. The thrilling conclusion, and their final trick are sure to leave your jaws dropped!

  In looking at the movie from a Christian perspective one will notice an obvious truth that stealing is obviously very wrong. It is important especially if you and a child go to see this movie that they understand that what the Horsemen did in robbing the bank was a very wrong thing. They did have noble intentions, you'll see when you watch the movie, but that just continues to show us a very important truth that the ends should not justify the means. The FBI are painted as the bad guys in this film, so please make sure that if you're watching the film with little ones they understand that taking something that isn't there's is always wrong.

  The second aspect of the film to which I want to draw your attention is that unfortunately magic isn't real. In  John 14 Jesus told all of his disciples that he was the way, the truth, and the life. Apart from Jesus there is no truth and reality. We can easily get excited about magic, because it's something new and different. It challenges us and even at times inspires us. But, please understand that magic at it's heart is just a deception, and I think the film does a very good job of reminding it's viewers about that.

  In terms of family friendliness I would give this film 2.5 stars out of five. While there is very little sexual content, there are intense situations, at times foul language, and one does see smoking and alcohol. But, in terms of the overall quality of the movie I give this film 4.5 stars out of five. It is in my opinion one of the most original, unique movies I've seen in a long time.

On Success

  I am a recovering success addict. It pains me to say this, but I've lived a lot of my childhood and adult life as someone who hasn't needed drugs or alcohol or even a lot of money, as I'm writing this to you right now I can definitely tell you that's not the case. But, I've been someone who's been fueled by success. I've been someone who so earnestly desired to ride waves of success, praise, and compliments that it has hurt me from time to time. But, I'm getting better. I think one of the prescriptions that the good Lord gave me to cure this disease of always needing to be successful was he gave me a loving, caring, wife who is never afraid to speak her mind. I would say about 95% of the time that's a great thing, she does get her self in trouble, only about 5% of the time. But, she has done a very good job of keeping me grounded and focused on what's most important in life.
  I will say this though, I still have a long way to go. The desire to be first, to be praised, to be right, to be highly thought of, is not an easy desire to shake. But, I'm continuing to grow and learn. Now, one thing I must say is that success doesn't fuel everyone, there are certain people in this life who do their best day in and day out and their effort is good enough for them. But, for most of us status, esteem, and praise matter. I am not here telling you that success or praise of people is in and of itself a bad thing. However, it can be a very slippery slope for a lot of people. As is well defined in all theology pride is one of the root sins that all of us struggle with, some people struggle with gambling, others with drug addiction, or temptation for lust, but those struggles often aren't universal. Pride is the universal temptation/sin. St. Augustine one of the pillars of our church said that pride was one's refusal to submit to God. Essentially saying pride is at the heart of sin, pride is making much of yourself.
  The question remains though, can we do anything about it? Can we be successful without being prideful and arrogant about it? Well, I would say of course there is. As a recovering success addict, here are a few things I've learned and I hope you can as well. Balance is very key in life, while as pride and success are often about taking or getting, I would encourage you to spend some time in your life giving. Watch the neighbor's kid for free, so they can go out on a date together as a couple. Spend a few minutes a day praying for your friends and even your enemies. Give a portion of your paycheck to a local charity to benefit those less fortunate, and I think you can see there are lots of ways that you can live a life that is humble and honoring to God. Two final things to consider: first, please, please surround yourself with good people. It is so easy to fall into sin and things that we shouldn't be involved in because we surround with ungodly people. Now, I'm not saying don't have friends that aren't Christians, but be very careful how your friends and family are influencing you. Take time to develop real, deep relationships with Godly, spiritual mature men and women. Finally, know and understand who is the giver of all gifts. I hate to burst your bubble, but you're not the center of the universe. The world has been doing just fine before you came along, and it'll probably do okay after you and I leave it as well. But, spend your time making much of God. One verse I'll share as we close is found in Matthew 6:33, this is an incredible way to live and would highly encourage you to make this verse the mission of your life, "But, seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all of his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you." Next week we're talking about social media :)

On the Word of God: Psalm 46:9-11

  The Psalms are probably my favorite part of the Bible. I'm not going to lie the uplifting beautiful poetry and imagery as presented in the longest book of the Bible are truly things to be treasured and cherished. When I'm down and needing hope I go to the Psalms. When my heart is so joyful and jubilant I go to the Psalms, this wonderful book has something to say about every walk of life. Another great part of the Psalms is that this wonderful book is a great resource to enrich and develop a healthy, fruitful prayer life. The language in the Psalms is something that will truly take your prayer life to the next level. 

  On to the text we're looking at today, I'm here to discuss three verses that contain one of the most recognizable phrases possibly in all of the Psalms: "Be still and know that I am God." These verses I think center on that command, but I think it's an injustice to just look at that command, let's take just a moment to read those three verses, and then we'll come back and discuss them. 

  Now, looking at the passage the first thing that comes to note is that this psalm wasn't written by the most famous Psalm writer, King David. This Psalm was written by rather than the Sons of Korah, who did write many famous psalms of both praise and lament throughout the 150 Psalms in the Old Testament. This particular Psalm is a psalm of hope and assurance in the power and goodness of God. One of the main adjectives that characterized life at the time for the nation of Israel during the time that the Psalms were being written was uncertainty. There were wars and rumors of wars, the nation was small and vulnerable, but they did have the favor and power of God on their side. That's what this Psalm reflects on, God's power and might to defeat his enemies. It's a powerful reminder that even though evil and darkness can surround us, they may even do harm to us, but they will never have the last word or win the final victory.

  What our passage today is reflecting on very nicely is that in the quiet moments of our life, the moments when we are still, when the noise is off, and the distractions, are kept at a distance that is when we will truly and fully be able to comprehend just how incredible and amazing God really is. The Psalmist knew that it is very easy to lose sight of the grandeur and goodness of God, trust me it's even more so easy to do that with all the noise, distraction, and busyness of our current lives. So, I encourage you to take seriously this command, be still and know that He is God. When you do you'll understand truly what's important in life, and just how great and wonderful God has been and will be in the future. Take a few moments out of each day and meditate in silence, I've been practing doing this in the car while I'm by myself. The level of intimacy you will experience with God will be great! I'd encourage you tonight to read the entirety of Psalm 46, spend a few minutes in silence as the Holy Spirit speaks to you, and then read it all again. Until next time, may God be with you!

on Star Trek: Into Darkness

  I actually really enjoy writing movie reviews. I must admit that these reviews are most my opinion, and some will read this review and say, "I full heartily agree." While others will more than likely say, "This guy is a nut." That's kind of what you get when you write something and put it on the Internet. Anyway, I do think it is important for us as the body of Christ to look at films, music, books, and other areas of media and understand exactly the message we are being sent.

  As I dive into this review, I must first admit that in reviewing movies I sometimes can seem vague or as if I left something out. This is done intentionally, so I don't spoil the movie for you especially if you haven't seen it yet. The second installment of this Star Trek series came out on May 17, it stars Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, and Zoe Saldana. The film stars out in a very exciting way as Captain Kirk (Pine) and Dr. McCoy are running from a band of savages on a remote planet. Meanwhile, Mr. Spock (Quinto) is tasked with trying to stop a volcano from erupting and wiping out the entire race. The movie continues on a tour-de-force journey as the crew of the USS Enterprise is seeking justice for a man who has committed several crimes that hit close to home. They follow this man (you'll have to watch the movie to see who he is and what's he done) to the edge of the Klingon planet: Cronos. Looking to take him out, Kirk is convinced otherwise by Spock who convinces him that this man should stand trial. After the man surrenders to the crew of the Enterprise that's when things get really interesting. The crew quickly realizes that they'll need his help in getting him back to earth to stand trial, and they are shocked to discover just who this man is and what he has on board their ship. It is a thrilling race to the end, and movie goers will be on the edge of their seat.

 One of the best moments in the movie is the transformation of Captain Kirk throughout the movie. Early he is described by Captain Pike as someone who is arrogant, brash, and listens to no one. By the movie's end and throughout certain events in the movie the viewer can see that Kirk has truly transformed into a more humble, thoughtful, and mature captain. This is a great lesson for viewers of all ages to see and learn from. The viewer also gets to see first hand just how powerful evil when it is unleashed can be. It is a powerfully gripping film, with good action scenes a little bit of language, but no major sexual scenes. There is a brief shot of a young woman in her underwear, though. The movie is rated PG-13 mainly for violence and disturbing images. I wouldn't recommend it for any young children, but it is a very entertaining film for both Star Trek fans and those who wouldn't label themselves a fan. If you didn't see the first film you can come watch this film without being lost. In terms of family friendliness I give it 3 stars out of five. In terms of quality of movie, I think it's a good film and I give it 3.5 stars out of five.

On the Family Part 2

  Jesus tells us something very troubling in Luke 14, He tells His followers that whoever doesn't hate their mother and father cannot be his disciple. The troubling thought from all of this is Jesus telling us that we need to hate our parents to be a disciple? Do we need to despise and reject those who are closest to us? Well, let's I will say this is one of the most complicated and difficult things that Jesus said to His disciples. However, I will say this in life we often rank/prioritize what we believe to be most important in our lives. Some of us do this consciously other of us do this rather unconsciously. But, regardless how we prioritize the things and people in our lives happens pretty much all the same way. Where we spend our time, our money, who we talk about, what we think about, and where we place our hopes and dreams will show people what we view as most important.

  I don't think there is one clear cut answer as to what Jesus is trying to communicate with us in these verses in Luke 14. It is tough to try and reason out what Jesus meant, what the purpose was behind his words, etc., and I think we often over step our bounds when we do so. One thing for sure the tone of the statement does fit nicely with similar tones Jesus had throughout the gospels. This statement makes us feel uncomfortable, it causes us to squirm, a little bit, and I think that was done intentionally. One of the biggest injustices I think we have done in our modern times is that we have cast and displayed Jesus as a mild person where everyone feels uncomfortable around. The Jesus in the gospels is much, much different. Jesus in the gospels challenges us, drives us to places where we feel uncomfortable, and that's done intentionally so we can grow and prosper.

  But, I want to leave you with thinking about the family. I don't think Jesus was telling us to hate our father and mother. However, I do think what Jesus was telling us is that nothing should come above serving Him and the Kingdom. Nothing. Period. It is so easy to get wrapped up in what we do as a family, as individuals, in our careers, and in ourselves, that we often lose sight of what's most important: nothing in our lives should be greater than Jesus. Now, I will say I do see the family as a huge blessing and a blessing that is a gift from God. I don't think that this gift should be taken lightly. I want you to be left with this: love your family, cherish your family, if the recent tornadoes in Oklahoma have taught us anything is that we aren't promised tomorrow so make the most of today. But, Jesus should always be at His rightful place in your life and that is at the very top. We have one more post on the family stay tuned.

The American Dream

   The American Dream is something that many, many people today are striving to achieve. The idea of the American Dreams is based in the Declaration of Independence, which states that all people should have the opportunity to pursue: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In 1931 James Truslow Adams stated the American Dream is, "life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement." I will say this: I really like Adams' definition. I think that there is nothing wrong with us trying for and desiring to have a full, rich life. But, the important part is to understand where our fulfillment and happiness comes from. I think we often make the mistake that we believe our happiness and contentment are found in a new car, a promotion at work, the next award, being popular, being famous, being rich, or even being in a relationship.

  At the end of Matthew 6, Jesus offers some very comforting words to those who feel worried, downtrodden, fearful, or those who need a little extra dose of encouragement. Jesus tells his followers that if God cares about the birds of the sky and the lillies of the field and if God provides for them how much more will God provide for us? We are the prize of all creation! Let me be perfectly honest, the American Dream is great, but please be very careful. It is so easy to get caught up in making much of yourself, your abilities, your gifts, and what you bring to the table that it is so easy to forget to honor the person who gave you all of those abilities.

  I think looking at Jesus' example is very pertinent in regards to our perspective on the American Dream. The danger in pursuing the dream is that way too often get consumed with making much of themselves. We want people to notice us. We desire to be recognized and praised, and the list can go on and on. That's how almost all of us are wired we thrive on being noticed, being praised, and being made much of. However, the example Jesus gives us is one that is much, much different. In Mark 8 Jesus tells his disciples that whoever desires to find his life will lose, and it is only those who desire to lose their lives will find their life. Near the end of his earthly ministry Jesus was about to endure the Cross, the shame, the torture, and the humiliation for us, and in John 13 the night he was betrayed he doesn't spend the hours leading up to his arrest fishing for compliments, asking his disciples to serve him, rather he bends town with a towel and a basin and washes their feet. Jesus serves them, and he makes much of them rather than himself. 

  The American Dream can be good, but it is dangerous. Because so many people including good Christian men and women can easily fall prey to the danger of the dream: making much of themselves. Let us strive to be the best we can be, but let our ultimate goal our ultimate reality be to make much of Jesus Christ and the people all around us. I think at the end of it all, we'll be much happier and content when realize our worth is not in our possessions or accolades and our goal is to make little of ourselves and much of Jesus.

Parental Guidance

  The 2012 Christmas-release, smash-hit comedy Parental Guidance, stars acclaimed actors Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, and Marissa Tomei. The comedy begins with minor league baseball announcer, Artie Decker, (Crystal) loses his job, because he is no longer hip, current, and he doesn't have a Facebook account. Artie takes the loss the hard, but his sadness is short lived as his daughter Alice Simmons gives him a call and informs him and his wife Diane (Midler) that she and her husband Phil (Tom Everett Scott) need to leave town on business. Alice asks Diane and Artie to watch the kids for a few days and to her surprise they agree!

  Hilarity ensues as two very different styles of parenting collide as Artie and Diane come to learn that Phil and Alice never tell their kids no, allow their kids to play baseball where no score is kept and no one is out or safe ever, and feed their kids such "delectable" treats as tofu dogs and eggless egg salad. Despite, all of that Diane and Artie are determined to make their week with their grand kids, who they rarely see, a major success. Alice and Phil aren't so sure about it, and Alice even delays her plane flight just to make sure that Artie and Diane don't mess things up too badly. Well, needless to say it is one crazy week as everyone learns a great lesson with a few laughs along the way. The movie was definitely one that warmed and touched my heart as Artie and Diane became reconnected to their grandkids.

  As far as family friendly goes. The movie scored a 4.2 out of five stars. There were moments of somewhat crude comedy (nothing vulgar or offensive). But, the message of the movie is very good for anyone to learn and see. I myself would personally recommend the movie. Billy Crystal is hilarious as usual. Bette Midler provides a warm/stabilizing presence. And of course the grand kids are absolutely hilarious and adorable all at the same time. Definitely recommend this movie for family movie night, maybe not if your kids are five or under though.