Fruitbearers

You are probably familiar with Dreamworks' animated movie, The Prince of Egypt , which is about the story of Moses in the Bible. It has been turned into a live stage production and filmed professionally. It is now available to buy or rent digitally starting December 5th. Check it out! This is the epic musical to watch with your kids to spark priceless family conversations about Moses & the Old Testament! Filmed live at the West End's Dominion Theatre, London, the show features a cast and orchestra of 60 performers, making it one of the biggest musicals ever staged. The Prince of Egypt: The Musical is the must-see event for all fans of musical theatre. Based on the classic DreamWorks Animation film the classic story has been brought to life by Stephen Schwartz’s “miraculous music” (Time Out), including Academy Award®-winning song ‘When You Believe’ and Sean Cheesman’s “astonishing choreography” (The Guardian). This epic, critically acclaimed productio...

  " Wounded Tiger " is the true story of three lives that intertwined in an incredible, unexpected way, against the backdrop of World War II. The author ingeniously presents the narrative about Mitsuo Fuchida (an overambitious Japanese pilot who led the Pearl Harbor attack and hated America, driven by revenge), Jake DeShazer (an American bombardier and a prisoner of war, who's determined on retaliation against Japan after the Pearl Harbor attack), and Peggy Covell (a college student and the eldest daughter of an American missionary family who spent time in Japan and the Philippines). The story unfolds before, during, and after Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The author, T. Martin Bennett, spent 18 years conducting extensive research to ensure the historical accuracy of the events, people, and stories. The book is a thick book that includes over 300 black and white photos of people, places, planes, original telegrams, letters, maps, documen...

The Shift is a dystopian drama and sci-fi thriller, inspired by the Book of Job. It's the latest film from Angel Studios (that made The Chosen and Sound of Freedom), releasing in theaters starting tomorrow, December 1st. In an alternate dimension/reality (think "multiverse"), Kevin Garner (Kristoffer Polaha) encounters "The Benefactor" (Neal McDonough). Kevin smells lies and deception from this mysterious, nefarious adversary right away; he refuses to work for/with him and his offer of wealth and power. Faced with infinite worlds and endless possibilities, Kevin fights to find a way out in order to be reunited with the woman he loves, Molly (Elizabeth Tabish). Personally, I am not a fan of sci-fi, multiverse movies, but I enjoyed The Shift . I like the message within the movie that touches on Christ's resurrection, eternal hope, test of faith, God's truths vs. Satan's lies, light vs. darkness, life and death, agape (selfless & self-sacrificial l...

Surprised by Oxford is a romance-drama based on a true story. I have never read the book (same title) by Carolyn Weber , which is a memoir of an intellectual unbeliever who became a Christian. I did not know what to expect but I was surprised by Surprised by Oxford in a good way. Caro Drake (played by Rose Reid), a brilliant and driven American student, receives a full-ride scholarship to study for her PhD degree on Romantic Literature at Oxford University in England. Culture shock, a charming & chaste young man (played by Ruairi O'Connor), and Christianity surprise her and intrigue her at the same time. As an agnostic, she grapples with many questions about God and spiritual matters. As a feminist from a broken family, she struggles with being vulnerable and maintaining a relationship with a chivalrous man. Caro is introduced to C.S. Lewis's memoir about his conversion to Christianity, Surprised by Joy , and is greatly impacted by it. She sincerely searches for truth and...

I love good musicals so I was excited to review Journey to Bethlehem (rated PG), the new musical about Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem and the birth of our promised Savior and King Jesus. The film's script writers take some creative license and fill in the unknowns such as how Mary and Joseph met and how they felt, the names and personalities of the three wise men, etc. They said they tried to remain true to the message of the greatest story ever told. While I enjoyed the movie and appreciated the quality of the film, I need to point out a few things that are definitely not Biblically accurate. First, the wise men came to the house, not the stable and presented gifts to the young Child, not the Baby (according to Matthew 2). Second, Herod the Great's son, Antipater, was not present at Christ's birth. Luke 2:8 says, " Now when Herod (Antipater) saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many thi...

Parenting is hard enough, but Biblical parenting is even more challenging because while Christian parents are doing their best to raise their children according to God's Word, the enemy (Satan) is waging war against both Christian parents and their child(ren). The spiritual warfare is real; we Christian parents must be aware of the enemy's schemes & weapons but not anxious or afraid. We cannot afford choosing to be pacifists in this battle; we must be vigilant and fight for our child's soul with God's strength, full armor, and truths & principles. " It is our responsibility as Christ-followers to love, protect, and steward this gift (children) for the glory of God. "  Fighting for the Soul of Your Child (written by Jimmy & Karen Evans with their daughter, Julie Evans Albracht) is a practical guide to Biblical parenting that encourages Christian parents to trust God, seek Him, rely on Him & His Word and arms readers with valuable tools for ra...

  One can never own too many Bibles, right? I am pleased to add this CSB (Christian Standard Bible) Life Counsel Bible to my Bible collection. It's like having God's wisdom plus application to counseling at my fingertips. It contains more than 150 articles on various topics related to marriage, parenting, relationships, mental health, and more. The overall theme is the gospel of God's grace. These articles are written by trustworthy Biblical counselors and scholars such as Paul David Tripp, Edward T. Welch, and Joni Eareckson Tada. This unique Bible provides hope, encouragement, and practical wisdom for life's tough issues such as stress, anxiety, grief, depression, addiction, sexuality, abuse, crisis, suicide, finances, adoption, conflict, and parenting struggles.  Each book's introduction includes Circumstances of Writing, Contribution to the Bible, Structure, and Truth for Healing. One of my favorite features in this Bible is: over 100-word studies with the Hebr...

Miracle in East Texas is a new family-friendly film (rated PG) inspired by a true story. It is a twisted tale of entrepreneurship during the Great Depression in US history. Doc Boyd (played by Kevin Sorbo) and Dad Everett (played by John Ratzenberger) charm their ways into the hearts of some lonely widows and get away with these easy targets' money. They shamelessly sweettalk about potential oil wells and despicably swindle the vulnerable in Oklahoma and then in Cornville, Texas. But God has other plans for their lives, and they encounter miracles beyond their wildest dreams. The movie made me think of the movie, " Dirty Rotten Scoundrels ". You hate what the characters do but you can't help liking the characters because of some redeeming qualities. I find Miracle in East Texas light-hearted and entertaining. Lou Gossett Jr. is a narrator and at the end credit, you will get to see more of him. I think it's sweet that Sam Sorbo (Kevin Sorbo's wife) plays as h...

One can never own too many Bibles, right? I am pleased to add this CSB (Christian Standard Bible) Life Counsel Bible to my Bible collection. It's like having God's wisdom plus application to counseling at my fingertips. It contains more than 150 articles on various topics related to marriage, parenting, relationships, mental health, and more. The overall theme is the gospel of God's grace. These articles are written by trustworthy Biblical counselors and scholars such as Paul David Tripp, Edward T. Welch, and Joni Eareckson Tada. This unique Bible provides hope, encouragement, and practical wisdom for life's tough issues such as stress, anxiety, grief, depression, addiction, sexuality, abuse, crisis, suicide, finances, adoption, conflict, and parenting struggles.  Each book's introduction includes Circumstances of Writing, Contribution to the Bible, Structure, and Truth for Healing. One of my favorite features in this Bible is: over 100-word studies with the Hebrew...

" God is good. So good ," said Mary Owen. I completely agree with her. God's goodness never ceases to amaze me. We are so undeserving, yet He is so loving, forgiving, and giving. My family and I first met the Owen family when our daughter took a speech/debate workshop with them in Newberg, Oregon. They are a lovely Christian family. We got to know Shelli, Bruce, Jessika, Mary, Ruth, and Elijah a little bit. We have never met Rachel (their other daughter). When we heard about Mary missing on Mount Hood, we prayed urgently for her to be found alive and for her family. When we heard that she was rescued, we were overjoyed and thanked God for this marvelous miracle. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I was curious to find out about all the details and backgrounds concerning this awesome story of God's merciful intervention, provision and protection. During spring break in March 2013, Mary Owen (23 then), an avid hiker, determined to summit Mount Hood no matter what, ...

The Hill is an inspiring movie based on an incredible true-life story of Rickey Hill, a baseball phenomenon. His unlikely journey to play Major League Baseball is filled with health obstacles and opposition from his own father. As a young boy from a poor family in Texas who struggles with a degenerative spinal disease, Rickey loves playing baseball and does not let his leg braces stop him from pursuing his passion. God blesses Rickey with two special gifts: an extraordinary ability for hitting a baseball and an extraordinary ability to comprehend and memorize the Scriptures. Due to the desire to protect Rickey (played by Colin Ford) from injury, his father, Pastor James Hill (played by Dennis Quaid) discourages the former while encouraging the latter. However, Rickey never gives up his dream of playing professional baseball, in spite of having to overcome one challenge after another. He displays faith and determination that defy the odds, intending to live his life with no regrets....

I would like to invite you all to experience The Hiding Place (stage production) in this spectacular new global cinema event, coming to theaters on August 3 (tomorrow) & 5 only. The Hiding Place tells the heroic true story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family in the Netherlands. They risk everything (including their lives) to hide hundreds of Jewish refugees during World War II until they are discovered and as a result, they have to endure terrible consequences. The Hiding Place was beautifully adapted for the stage by A.S. Peterson, directed by Matt Logan, and filmed for cinema audiences in Nashville, Tennessee. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. It is 2 1/2 hours long but it went by quickly because I was totally absorbed into the story and performance. Brilliantly performed by the cast. Great music score, too. A simple family of watchmakers shows hospitality and offers safe shelter to multitude of persecuted Jews during the time of darkness in Europe under the ruthless tyranny of t...

Sound of Freedom is a powerful must-see film based on the true story of Timothy Ballard, a former US government agent who quits his job in order to devote his life to rescuing children from global sex traffickers. The story begins with a parent's worst nightmare. A father in Honduras cannot find his daughter and son when he comes to pick them up from a "talent audition" where he drops them off. Tim saves the boy from traffickers, but his sister is still kept captive. Tim decides to risk his own life journeying deep into the Colombian jungle to free her. Sound of Freedom is such an important and impactful movie that aims to help raise awareness about the prevalence of human trafficking and propel people to fight against this evil. I cannot recommend it enough. Bring tissues. I have to warn you that certain scenes in the movie will be hard to watch even though they try to show its mature and sensitive subject matter in a tasteful and honorable way. This real-life story is...

I personally enjoy studying the Bible. I desire to know God more and more intimately. I don't want to miss out on anything God wants me to know. I always appreciate tools and resources that help me understand the Bible better. In addition, I've always wanted to visit Israel.  Encounter the 3D Bible by Dr. Susan Michael is an easy but impactful read. It makes me more mindful of how the places, people, culture, and events in the Bible fit together so beautifully. This book is not a Bible study but a book that gives you tips on how to read the Bible in such a way that enhances your understanding and your appreciation of the Bible. The Bible will go from 2D to 3D and makes your Bible study richer and livelier. It whets your appetite for digging deeper into God's Word as digging for precious treasures. The author gives guidelines to help us read the Bible in context (historical context, geographical context, cultural context, and literary context/genre). Without a proper unders...

In this world of chaos, distractions, and negativity, we all can certainly use words of encouragement, especially soul-nourishing and faith-strengthening messages from God's Word. I was excited to receive the You Are Loved Scripture Writing Journal and the 4x4 Scripture Card Set . The card set consists of 52 beautifully designed cards with affirming messages about who you are (in Christ) on one side and corresponding Scriptures on the other side. The colorful floral images in the background are pleasing to the eyes and make the words stand out. The 108-page Scripture Writing Journal complements the card set with the same affirmations and Scripture references plus space to write Scriptures, journal, reflection, and prayer. I encourage you to get into a habit of writing out Scripture. It really helps us remember better (hiding God's Word in our hearts) and focus our thoughts/mind on what God thinks of us, says about us, and how much He loves us. These wonderful truths will help u...

Jesus Revolution is an inspiring film based on a true story of a national spiritual awakening in the early 1970s among the hippies in Southern California. It follows the story of how the lives of Pastor Chuck Smith (played by Kelsey Grammer), Lonnie Frisbee (played by Jonathan Roumie), and Greg Laurie (played by Joel Courtney) converged and how God used them to impact the hippie culture. The wandering youth searched for truth in all the wrong places (drugs, alcohol, promiscuity, rock and roll, etc.) which failed to give life meaning and fulfillment. Only Jesus Christ can set the captives free and give us an eternal and abundant life. Jesus Revolution is a wonderful story of faith, hope, agape love, forgiveness, and freedom. Chuck Smith, the founder of Calvary Chapel (more than 1,000 churches now), courageously welcomed those who looked and dressed differently in spite of criticism and opposition from others in his congregation. I love what Chuck Smith said to his congregation, “ ...

I am glad to see more and more Christian movies coming out.  His Only Son  will release in theaters tomorrow (March 31st).  His Only Son  tells the true Biblical account of Abraham and his faith being put to the test when God tells him to offer his one and only promised, long-awaited (25 years) son, Isaac, as a burnt offering. During his 3-day journey with Isaac and two servants to Moriah (where God told him to go), Abraham has flashbacks of the years when he and Sarah longed for the son God promised them. As a parent, I can really relate to Abraham's anguish and probably confusion, too. As a Christian, I really admire Abraham's faith and confidence in God and his unquestioning obedience. His complete trust in Yahweh Yireh ("The LORD Will Provide") is truly remarkable. He knows that God will provide what God requires.  His Only Son  effectively depicts Genesis 22 while beautifully weaving in the gospel message of God's grace, mercy, and redemption plan. His...

I am glad to see more and more Christian movies coming out. His Only Son will release in theaters tomorrow (March 31st). His Only Son  tells the true Biblical account of Abraham and his faith being put to the test when God tells him to offer his one and only promised, long-awaited (25 years) son, Isaac, as a burnt offering. During his 3-day journey with Isaac and two servants to Moriah (where God told him to go), Abraham has flashbacks of the years when he and Sarah longed for the son God promised them. As a parent, I can really relate to Abraham's anguish and probably confusion, too. As a Christian, I really admire Abraham's faith and confidence in God and his unquestioning obedience. His complete trust in Yahweh Yireh ("The LORD Will Provide") is truly remarkable. He knows that God will provide what God requires. His Only Son effectively depicts Genesis 22 while beautifully weaving in the gospel message of God's grace, mercy, and redemption plan. His Only Son ...

I have always thought of Barnabas as Mr. Encourager but this book, Authentic Influencer , by Jonathan Murphy , helps me have greater respect and appreciation for Barnabas as Mr. Authentic Influencer, too. Everyday God works through ordinary believers living an authentic everyday life of influence in everyday spheres of life. Whether you realize it or not, you are influencing others and being influenced by others. People shape people, for good or for bad. " Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm ." (Proverbs 13:20) In Authentic Influencer , the author draws valuable lessons and 15 key principles from the exemplary life of Barnabas (in Acts) that Christ's followers can copy, adapt, customize, and embody, in order to be active, authentic, godly influencers for Jesus. Never underestimate the impact of an authentic influencer. Barnabas influenced Paul, John Mark, and Luke. Authentic influencers can and do produce world changers.  The Great Co...

Southern Gospel is a powerful movie inspired by actual events, now playing in theaters. It is based on the true story of Samuel and Julie Allen, who founded Dream Church in Florida in 1986. The film starts with a young Samuel in a strict Sunday School class and his father, Joe Allen, the church's pastor in Alabama in 1964, who does not always follow the church's man-made rules. After a teenage Samuel gets unjustly blamed for a tragedy, he walks away from Christianity, joins a secular rock-and roll band, and lives the prodigal son's wasteful lifestyle of worldly pleasures. When he hits rock bottom, God's grace is there to pick him up and turn his life around. Samuel becomes a pastor just like his father, but not without opposition and challenges. He is determined to follow his dream about telling others how they can find hope and forgiveness in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Southern Gospel contrasts God's immeasurable love and inexhaustible grace with legalism and hy...