David Tarkington

The Most Important Scene in "Les Miserables"

Last night, our family sat in a sold out theater enjoying the opening day of the newest incarnation of Les Miserables. The story of Jean Valjean and his journey from prisoner, to mayor, to rescuer, to father and hero has captivated audiences for decades.

The original story by Victor Hugo was first published in the mid-1800s and was considered by many to be the greatest novel of the nineteenth century. The story is set in the midst of the French Revolution and introduces numerous memorable characters such as Valjean, Inspector Javert (the officer who is bent on re-capturing the escaped convict Valjean), Fantine, Cosette, and Marius.

The novel holds its place in history as one of the greatest written. However, it is the musical adaptation, first presented on stage in 1980, that has captivated audiences worldwide.

My wife and I first experienced the musical in London in 2002. Having never read the book nor seen the musical before, we were taken in by the beautiful music and the production quality.

Perhaps the most famous musical numbers is "I Dreamed a Dream" as sung by the character Fontaine. The story of the desperate mother who has been pushed into prostitution in order to provide for her daughter is heart-wrenching and powerful. Many remember Susan Boyle's performance of this song on the British talent show "Britain's Got Talent" that propelled her to international fame.

There have been a few film adaptations of Les Miserables. In 1998 Liam Neeson and Geoffrey Rush starred in a quality film version. Though not a musical version, the retelling of Valjean's story was done well.

Yesterday, a star-studded film adaptation of the musical hit theaters. With such names as Anne Hathaway, Russell Crowe and Hugh Jackman headlining, this version was set to be a hit. It does not disappoint.

As my family and I were leaving the theater, we were talking about the film. I said to my daughter, "There's one scene in the film that is the most important. It is the key. Without it, the rest of the film and story does not work."

While there are many memorable scenes, this one, though early in the story, is vital.

It is the scene where Valjean is arrested for stealing silver from the priest who has offered him sanctuary. The priest's response is vital. It is a scene that shows what grace and mercy truly are.

This is the scene where we can all relate.

Deserving nothing, we are shown grace by our Heavenly Father.

That's our story.

The priest echoes that to Valjean and it changes the man.

As I think of the crowded theater, all caught up in the musical numbers and the story of adventure, love and rescue, I pray that those in the crowd, and the millions others who will see this film over the next few weeks will "have ears to hear" how God so deeply loves them and reaches out to each of them with love and grace.

Hugo was wise to include this scene. It's elemental to the heart of man.

Ephesians 2:8-9(ESV)
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

 

You Need to Go See "October Baby"

Last Sunday evening our church members and friends gathered together at the local AMC Theater in Orange Park Mall for the opening weekend showing of a new movie. The theaters were packed this past weekend due to the opening of a new film based on a best selling book. The Hunger Games was expected to be big, and it did not disappoint. The adventure of Katniss and friends (and enemies) brought throngs of fans to theaters, to the tune of $155 million at the domestic box office and $59.3 million internationally. It shattered box office records in the process.

However, that was not the film we saw. We purchased all the tickets for one showing of the new, independent film October Baby.

October Baby is released by Provident Films and distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films. These names have been associated with other faith-based films in the past, so you may recognize them. While opening in just 390 theaters nationwide, October Baby finished number 3 in per-screen average and number 8 overall. The crowd in our theater, consisting of church members and friends as well as volunteers at First Coast Women's Services and leaders and teenagers from the Florida Baptist Children's Home in Jacksonville, was greatly moved.

I heard over and again from the attendees how moving and well-done the film was. Some said "It wasn't what I expected, but it was so good. I'll have to get the DVD when it comes out." Not sure what was expected, but glad it exceeded those expectations.

My family loved the film and we talked about it all the way home from the theater. 

However, October Baby is controversial. It's controversial because of the serious subject matter it confronts head on.

That, I believe, is why so many reviewers in the media seem to be slamming the film. They say it's because of the acting or the storylines, but believe me, I've seen reviewers give rave reviews for mainstream films with decidedly non-Christian messages that have weaker acting and storylines full of holes. I guess it's hard to be impartial.

In truth, that is true for me as well. Because I agree wholeheartedly with the message of the film, I may be giving it "more stars" than it deserves. Honestly, there are some holes and some disappearing supporting cast once the story goes deeper into the message (i.e. Jason's girlfriend and Bmac and the guys.)

I've noticed that most professional reviewers from news agencies are panning the film, while the majority of "regular people" who have seen the film are giving it high ratings. 

While ratings by reviewers and money made by the film matter, what really is telling regarding the film is what those who have seen it are saying. Especially those who can relate to the characters portrayed. Here are some samples:

For Michael Catt, Pastor of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia (the church behind "Facing the Giants," "Fireproof" and "Courageous") who discovered as an adult that he had been adopted, the film hit close to home: "I am mor ethan viable tissue. Jeremiah says that God knew me before I was in my mother's womb. Mom, wherever you are, if you ever read this, I was no accident. God had a plan for you and for me. Thank you for not having an abortion. Thank you for loving me enough to give me breath. I hope that one day you will see and know how God has used all this for His glory.

For Melanie's parents, it was a chance to realize the impact of a life of service: "My parents have such a heart for the Lord and for children. They have lived and worked at a children's home for the past 13 years. While watching the movie Friday night, my mom leaned over and asked my dad if he needed a tissue. His reply? 'I need a towel.' Needless to say, they love the movie, as did I.

For Sharon, it was a reminder of her journey to forgiveness: "The movie is very inspirational and I think it will give many post-abortive women hope of healing and forgiveness. I am a forgiven post-abortive woman and was very moved by the brave testimony during the credits. There is hope and forgiveness to the millions of us mothers and fathers who have lost our precious children to the sin of abortion."

For Dina, it was a chance to share the hope she found in October Baby: "I went to see it twice and the second time took friends with me. This film is the most touching, moving film I have ever seen. So full of hope, love, forgiveness and above all, healing! I am so immensely blessed by it. Prase be to God.

The stories keep coming in. I asked folks on Facebook what the most meaningful scene was in the film. Here are some of the responses. . .

SPOILER ALERT

• When the birth mother comes into her office and finds the note that says, "I forgive you" What a powerful picture of what God can do through a person. I think it must have been much harder to forgive her for the second rejection than for the first.
• One of my favorites is actually when the movie is over and the actress who plays the birth mom is describing reading the script and then playing that scene. LOVE how God planned that moment for her years ago and it affirms again that He is in the details of our lives!
• My other favorite scene was when they were saying goodbye at the college campus, and she remembered why her father could never let her go. And she turned around and ran back to him and told him that it would be OK.
• The reference that being human is 'beautifully flawed'...WOW!
• I liked when the Snake King almost arrested Chris Sligh.
• When she was in the church and the priest explained to her about God's forgiveness for us and how He has empowered us to do the same.
• My favorite part was in the church, the time she actually realized forgiveness was freedom. Wonderful movie, so glad we saw it thank you David for arranging these times for us.
• There are so many parts! Each and everyone mentioned here is awesome. I have to say I'm very pleased with the way the movie was put together. They did such a wonderful job showing how abortion effects so many more than just the mother!
• My favorite parts were in the church and when she had forgiven her birth mother. But most of all I liked how she was chosen, adoped, and loved. One of my favorite verses is Roms 8:15 for I too was adopted first in this world and then in My Fathers world.

I strongly encourage you to see the film. Also, stay through the credits to see and make sure those with you see Shari's story. 

 

"October Baby" - A Film About Life, Adoption & Forgiveness. Join Us for Opening Weekend on March 25 at 7:15pm

Once again, we are buying out a movie theater for an opening weekend showing. This time, the film resonates with a very special story that God has been leading us into as a church. It's a "faith-based" film with a message about life, adoption, hope and grace.

 

We have purchased 290 tickets for the 7:15pm showing on Sunday evening, March 25 at AMC 24 Theatre in Orange Park Mall. You can purchase your tickets from the church (please do, so we don't have to eat these tickets.)

 

Here's what people are saying about the film. . .

 

"OCTOBER BABY is absolutely the best movie about the precious gift of life, the incredible pain of abortion, and the power of forgiveness. OCTOBER BABY will change your life. This is a must-see movie." 
Mat Staver, Founder and Chairman, Liberty Counsel, Dean and Professor of Law, Liberty University School of Law

"I am now an OCTOBER BABY activist." 
Mark Hall, Casting Crowns

"A masterful production with impressive cinematography, OCTOBER BABY has the potential to significantly impact the culture of life in America." 
Michael Farris, Founder and Chairman, Home School Legal Defense Association, Founder and Chancellor, Patrick Henry College

"A movie for my whole family."
Penny Nance, Concerned Women for America

"OCTOBER BABY is an incredible witness to the pro-life movement. Not only does it allow for healing and hope for those affected by abortion, it also sheds a positive and reaffirming light on adoption and portrays the adoption process as a positive alternative to the horrible injustice of abortion."
Kristan Hawkins; Executive Director, Students for Life of America

"A great film with a great message!"
Alex Kendrick, Courageous

"OCTOBER BABY is a must-see film: poignant, powerful, and packed with blessings."
Dr. Alveda C. King, Director of African American Outreach, Priests for Life

"What a remarkable movie. This is a significant story, beautifully told."
Charmaine Yoest, Americans United for Life

"OCTOBER BABY is a profoundly beautiful story and a powerful testament to the importance of every human life."
Marjorie Dannenfelser, Founder and President, Susan B. Anthony List

"OCTOBER BABY is the most gripping drama ever produced about the central civil rights issue of our time—the right to life. The script is superb, the acting is first-class, and the presentation is flawless. This is a must-see movie for all Americans." 
Bill Donohue, President, Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights

"I laughed so hard and cried so hard, and healed. Thank you."
Gianna Jessen, Abortion Survivor, National Speaker

"A wonderfully heart-touching film, OCTOBER BABY is a powerful reminder that there is purpose and meaning in every life."
Commissioner Nancy Roberts, National President for Women's Ministries, The Salvation Army

"An incredible story! Wow ... just wow."
Francesca Battitstelli, GMA Artist of the Year

"I laughed, I cried. OCTOBER BABY is a must-see movie for teens and adults. It is an incredible story. Please don't miss it."
Nancy Stith, Executive Director, Georgia Right to Life

"Every life IS beautiful and OCTOBER BABY honestly explores the reality of life, which isn't always pretty. As the mother of adopted children, this movie spoke to me personally. Go see it!"
Susan Merrill, iMom Director

"This is a touching movie with a story that needs to be told. I pray that OCTOBER BABY will heal hurting hearts and open the eyes of those with hardened hearts."
Carol Tobias, President, National Right to Life

"Like all well-crafted art, OCTOBER BABY powerfully stirs both the mind and the heart. The film explores some of life's most difficult questions with a grace, humor, and wisdom that build ultimately to a unforgettable affirmation of life."
Jedd Medefind, President, Christian Alliance for Orphans

"It might change your life." 
The Dove Foundation

Watch the trailer below:

 

Also, check out www.everylifeisbeautiful.com for some great stories from folks connected to the film as well as other prominent people regarding adoption, fostering and life.

"Great Scott!" Einstein's Theory May Be Wrong!

The latest news from the CERN laboratory in Geneva could change everything. . .at least that's what we hear. While I don't visit the CERN website all that often (today's click marks my first visit) I find their latest discovery pretty amazing. 

There have been many more newsworthy items, such as the release of the "Footloose" remake and the Kardashian wedding, recently that have pushed this story to the back page of the newspaper (For clarification - newspapers are an ancient form of transferring worthy items of information to the masses. They still exist, but they are smaller and harder to find. The "back page" refers to the fact other items trended higher and therefore, in this case, the story has been mostly relegated to technology blogs and websites.) 

The Week magazine headline is this "A surprising threat to Einstien's theory." 

That's pretty newsworthy.

It seems there exist tiny, microscopic, subatomic particles called neutrinos. They have the power to move through solid objects. We're not talking objects like a piece of wood or a spoon. The objects these particles can slide through are things like. . .oh, mountains.

Anyway, these super-fast, super tiny particles have challenged scientists since their discovery. 

Here's the latest. . .

Physicists at the CERN laboratory in Geneva said last week they had clocked subatomic particles called neutrinos moving faster than the speed of light. Albert Einstein's special theory of relativity, which established the foundation of modern physics in 1905, holds that nothing int he cosmos can outrun light, which travels at 186,282 miles per second. If neutrinos can move faster than that, they could, in theory arrive at a destination before they had even left, opening the prospect of time travel. That idea is so shocking that most physicists can't believe the results are correct.

"We wanted to find a mistake" in the study that would leave Einstein's theory intact, but "we didn't," says lead researcher Antonio Ereditato. He and his colleages did not set out to test relativity; they only wanted to learn more about neutrinos - ghostly particles that can travel through most types of matter. But when they shot the neutrinos from Geneva through the Earth to a lab beneath Italy's Gran Sasso mountain, about 454 miles away, the particles consistently arrived about 60 nanoseconds faster than a beam of light could. (The Week, October 14, 2011, p. 24)

What does this really mean?

Does it mean that we are just a few years away from a "Great Scott!" moment with Doc Brown, a flux capacitor and a flying DeLorean?

Probably not.

However, I know many who would like to go back in time and fix some things, especially in their junior high years. Again, probably not going to happen, though it continues to make a good storyline for movies. The salvation experiences of believers are set at certain times. Eternal destinations are determined at these junctures, by God's design and for His glory. My mind is already hurting trying to comprehend this aspect of life with time travel. Anyway, I digress.

What we do see happening now is something that was considered by the scientific world to be a foundation stone of physics - unchangeable and right, being called into question.

Non-believing scientists are now having to admit perhaps there is some dimension beyond that defined by linear time.

One blogger put it this way:

We have non-Christian biased scientists talking about a reality that would expand our thinking beyond linear time. Those of the white lab coat (scientists) not those of the black robe (clergy) are excited to consider this possibility. Christians have always believed that God existed outside of time.

If there is matter (notice the spiritual component has not entered the logic train) that can travel outside of the present tense, then there must be an “unseen realm” in which time resides. This is similar to the logic (although now introducing spirituality) that the mind (that little voice in your head) implies that we are more than physical beings.

If time sets in something which could be feasibly be traversed, then the notion of a God who exists outside of time moves from something that is by empirical standards a fairy tale to something that is at least empirically reasonable (maybe even probable or necessary… I am not qualified to make that assessment).

We (als0) have non-Christian biased scientists questioning the validity of the absolute nature of the law of cause and effect. Miracles now become scientifically possible. If the scientist did not recognize their findings could not explain all of reality, this claim would not be entertained. If there is a reality outside of the present tense, and travel between tenses were possible, then empirically unexplainable events could occur without having to be written off as “make believe stories.”

I want to be careful that I do not imply that the existence of God has been scientifically proven by neutrinos (as if this is the newest and best apologetic for God). (Brad Hambrick - October 7, 2011)

No, God does not need to be "proven" by neutrinos. I do, however, believe that God smiles as scientific findings continue to do more to give credence to a non-believing world in the existence of a Creator.

As a believer, I am intrigued by the neutrino story. I believe in the supernatural (though not the hyped-up Hollywood version) as revealed in Scripture. God is the Creator of all. Everything that exists was created through the Word (John 1) and consequently, nothing, not even recently discovered attributes of sub-atomic particles exist apart from His knowledge or plan.

Once again, I am amazed by the AWESOMENESS of our God!

(Oh, and I realize that while other guys are watching football games, I'm reading about neutrinos. That's why my kids call me a nerd. However, I do like to watch football games, too.)

What the Church Can Learn From Netflix

Sometimes business decisions are made in board rooms that sound so very right, but when announced to the public become so very wrong. 

Now, I have never sat in on a planning meeting or vision casting session with the CEO or board of Netflix, but just by watching the reaction of industry monitors and reading customer reactions on social media sites, it appears (at least to me) that Netflix made some very risky decisions recently.

In case you have had your head in the sand for the past six months, here's a recap:

• Netflix is the number one provider of on-demand streaming media in the United States as well as flat-rate DVD by mail provider. Virtually on their own, Netflix moved Blockbuster video to the brink of extinction and redefined how Americans procured DVD films for home viewing.
• In April 2011, Netflix announced they had accrued 23.6 million subscribers and expressed plans to expand to Europe in 2012.
• In July 2011, Netflix announced a plan to separate its current subscription plans into streaming and by-mail DVD rental. This was not such a big deal until it became obvious this meant a price hike for subscribers. This was not met with positive results.
• Social media sites were flooded with negative comments about Netflix's plans.
• In early September 2011, Starz announced it's plans to remove Netflix streaming from its plans in February 2012.
• Later in September 2011, Netflix announced the creation of Quickster. According to CEO and Co-Founder Reed Hastings, Quickster would be the name of the DVD section of the company and would also include the rental of video games. This in and of itself seemed like a good plan in that customers had been asking for video game rental for years. However, the public and industry reaction to "Quickster" was anything but positive.
• Yesterday, October 10, 2011, Hastings announced the cancellation of Quickster and said that DVD-by-mail service would remain part of Netflix.

What?

This sounds like the "New Coke" strategy of 1985. That one also resulted in negative PR, though some still say it was an orchestrated plan to drive the stock of Coca-Cola back up after the re-release of Coca-Cola Classic. Who knows?

So, what can the church learn from this fiasco?

I meet with numerous pastors around our community. Some are in thriving churches and great things are happening almost weekly. Hearing their stories are encouraging and moving. However, many are frustrated. These men are in churches that are struggling financially. Some are close to foreclosure on their facilities and battling spiritually daily with church members (and in some cases other churches.) They are drained and burned out. It's heart-breaking. 

I was talking with one pastor recently and he shared how those in his church are constantly seeking the "secret sauce" to fix everything. This is dangerous and ultimately fruitless.

They seek a "fix" that will bring people into their fellowship. It may be a new building project, a community event, a new staff position or the replacement of a staff member, or any number of things except THE THING that is needed.

There are also those serving in churches that seemingly are running on all cylinders. They are seeing people come to Christ regularly. They are honoring the Lord through their worship and impacting the community, but they're restless. This restlessness leads to recklessness.

Since we live in a changing culture, I believe methodology must continually change and morph to best impact the community and world we are in with the Gospel. I do not believe the Gospel or the message should ever change or be compromised. To live missionally means that we understand the community around us, as missionaries are to do, and adjust methods to result in the greatest impact for the Gospel.

What Netflix did is what many churches do. They changed, seemingly, just for the sake of change. While there may have been good reason to change, apparently, they did not sell it well to their customer base. That's why they're backpedaling now.

One of the greatest and most difficult things we deal with as pastors and church leaders, is communicating the "why" of change within the church when it's necessary. I do not pretend to have this figured out, but I have learned that there is no "buy in" to the Kingdom movement if the people are not led to understand it. 

In George G. Hunter III's book The Celtic Way of Evangelism, he describes Patrick's journey to the Celtic people of Ireland. The Celtic Way, amazingly is the missional way being espoused today. There is much to be learned here. This paragraph really grabbed my attention:

Indeed, the fact that Patrick understood the peole and their language, their issues, and their ways serves as the most strategically significant insight that was to drive the wider expansion of Celtic Christianity and stands as perhaps our greatest single learning from this movement. There is no shortcut to understanding the people. When you understand the people, you often know what to say and do and how. When the people know that the Christians understand them, they infer that maybe Christianity's High God understands them too. (p. 8)

It seems that Netflix leaders forgot the people. They didn't fully understand the customer base. They led to some possibly great changes, but left the people behind.

Churches sometimes do this as well. It's about understanding the lost around the church and reaching them with the Gospel. It's also about understanding the saved within the fellowship and leading them to be missional.

I'm all for change. My nature drives me to change. I get bored easily and the same-ole, same-ole drives me crazy. Yet, change for the sake of change is a waste of time and energy. Change when needed, communicated well and for the growth of the Kingdom is powerful. May we learn from Netflix and others. May this remind us that we are the church, not another corporate entity.

Movie, Event or Catalyst for Transformation?

Back in June I was privileged to see a premiere of the new film Courageous by Sherwood Pictures and the Kendricks at Sherwood Baptist Church. 

Yesterday, the film opened nationwide. We (First Baptist Church of Orange Park) purchased all tickets for the 8pm showing last night and tonight as well.

I've shown a few clips from the film at our Battle Ready Men's Weekend as well as Sunday morning during a message focused to fathers a few weeks ago. 

This film, in my opinion is the best of the Sherwood films. I like all of them, but with each new film, the production quality, writing and acting seem to improve.

This is by far the most heart-wrenching of the films (others are Flywheel, Facing the Giants and Fireproof.) It's pointedly written to men and perhaps that is partially why I seem to resonate with this story more than the others.

Our evening last night was exciting. We had a full house (290 tickets sold) of people from First Baptist Church as well as other local fellowships (Journey Church, Lakeshore Baptist Church and Hickory Grove Baptist Church) and some local firefighters and police officers. We also had one of the actresses from the film in attendance with us. She told me she had seen the movie at least eight times. Yes, she still laughs and cries at certain moments even though she knows they're coming. Oh, and by the way, if you're at the showing tonight, listen when I tell you her real name. Don't call her the character's name. She doesn't care, but it seems weird.

Chick-fil-A in Orange Park Mall partnered with us and provided coupons for every attender.

Courageous sent posters, DVDs with clips and other promotional items.

We were able to distribute information from the National Center for Fathering, All Pro Dad and Family First, and Dennis Rainey and FamilyLife Ministry. 

We even gave away copies of the Sherwood Films first three DVDs. 

This was not a typical night at the movies. 

The employees at AMC Theatres told me that it's great to see so many people leaving the theater with smiles on their faces and such positive responses. 

It's just a movie.

Right?

Maybe not.

This was an event for our church and surrounding community. We are doing the same thing tonight at 8pm. I'm looking forward to another 290 people joining us for this movie.

So, it's another church event.

Right?

Again, hopefully not.

While many may never see Courageous as any more than an calendared event best described as "Christian entertainment" I believe it is so much more.

We are a visual society. Men, especially. The message of Courageous is not new. It's been told for years in our ministries. Whether presented in small group studies or large group gatherings, like Church for Men or Men's Fraternity, or at a retreat setting like Battle Ready, the strong message for men to step up has been clearly stated.

Yet, many men still listen too closely to the enemy and have not begun to live the life God has designed them to live. 

I see Courageous as an opportunity to continue the discussion, or in some cases, begin the discussion about what Godly manhood is to be. 

I'll talk more about this later, but at this point, so as not to be the only one seemingly sitting outside the conversation, I encourage everyone to go see the film. Let's continue this conversation about authentic manhood, resolutions, fatherhood, family and God's plan for life.

Oh, if you don't see the film, you'll never understand why people are wanting to join my new "Clay County Snake Kings" gang.

Courageous is just a movie and and an event for most, but it doesn't have to be.

 

The Church Cannot Remain Silent

It's the dirty little secret that we don't talk about in church. It doesn't fit into any of our "ministry boxes" and seems so foreign and unreal.

But. . .it is real.

It is horrific.

And. . .the church cannot ignore it.

It has to do with children.

It has to do with slavery.

It's not the feel-good mission story that we desire to hear.

It's uncomfortable.

It's wretched.

It's sickening.

There are stories reported all too often of young girls who have been kidnapped in our nation. In many cases, the stories continue with reports of sexual abuse, torture and even death.  On rare occasions, there are happy endings, as with Elizabeth Smart and Jaycee Dugard. These two young ladies survived their kidnappings, though they still carry the scars from their ordeals.

Unfortunately, not every story ends like Elizabeth's and Jaycee's.

In many cases, there is no rescue or escape.

This brings us to a very significant verse in Scripture. Jesus is speaking of the simple faith required to come to Him. A child-like faith is referenced. In explaining this faith, he shifts emphasis to remind us of His great love for children and consequently, the church's role for protecting them.

Matthew 18:5-6(ESV)
⁵“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me,
⁶but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.

Children are precious to our Lord. This is more than a nice little ditty put to music so our children can sing in church choir. This is a biblical truth and we, the church, the image-bearers of God, are to love and protect children as well.

When atrocious acts against children are made known, we are to stand in the gap and advocate for them. 

While the stories mentioned above and others that make news here in the States rightfully get attention and raise the ire of people in the community and the church, there is a darker part of the story that often gets ignored.

In 2008, I was visiting the International Mission Board site in Richmod, Virginia. I met some other pastors there who were attending the same conference and we had one evening with nothing scheduled to do. We drove into town to catch a movie and the Liam Neeson thriller "Taken" was playing. The movie is exciting and, as a parent, terrifying. The story is of a teenage girl who travels to Europe with her friend only to be kidnapped by sex traffickers. Of course, in this Hollywood rendition, the father of one of the teenage girls just happens to "have a certain set of skills" that most father's do not. He travels to Europe and systematically takes out the kidnappers and rescues his daughter (sorry for the spoiler.) 

What makes the story so frightening for parents is that sex trafficking of young girls throughout the world is a multi-billion dollar enterprise and occurs more than we would like to admit. It's not Hollywood fiction. It's real.

Unfortunately, in just about every case, there is no super-adventure dad with a "certain set of skills" working to rescue these young ladies. They find themselves abused, tortured, and hopeless.

That's one of the reasons we, as a church, are partnering with Do Something Now and gifting As Our Own ministries with approximately $10,000 to help rescue and redeem young girls in India sold as sex slaves. This amount of money isn't much, really, but partnered with donations from other believers, we pray that resources and encouragement will be provided. As Our Own is a Gospel-centric ministry working to rescue these young ladies and introduce them to the One who can give them life, hope and a future.

We must not ignore what is happening.

We cannot continue to sit idly by and wish someone would do something about this.

Prayer is key. Keep praying.

Support is essential. That's why we're giving.

You may not see this as a needed ministry. Perhaps you are not certain the church should even be involved. Please, take a few minutes and watch this video. I believe it will clarify some things for you. It did for me.

The Story of Seema from As Our Own on Vimeo.

Kirk Cameron & Warren Barfield Remind Us That Marriage is Worth It

What a weekend!

Yesterday was definitely a full day. We began with our regular services on Sunday morning only to find one of our video projectors wasn't working at all. We could not even get it to turn on. Now, I know it's just a projector, and for the worship services it wouldn't be that big a deal to not have it. However, at 3pm yesterday, we were hosting Kirk Cameron and Warren Barfield for the "Love Worth Fighting For" Marriage Event and I knew the projector would be needed. 

Guess it was just  a case of trying to get us to lose focus. The projector came back on. Yeah, I prayed it would. Kind of a weird prayer, because I wasn't sure God was too concerned about the video projector. I couldn't find any verses in the Bible where prayers over broken video projectors were said. Still, I believe it was more about distraction than technology. Unfortunately, I would have been worrying about that thing all day (and yes, I know worry is a sin, so I've repented of that almost worry already.)

Nevertheless, the projector worked throughout the afternoon. It probably doesn't work today, but I don't care. I'm sitting in the Miami International Airport on my way to Honduras with five other people from our church.

By the way, Miami's airport code is MIA. That's not too comforting. "Our entire mission team is now MIA!" doesn't bring comfort.

Back to yesterday.

The morning services went well as we began a new series titled "Worth It." It's a series to last through August with a focus on God's design for marriage. Yesterday was basically an introduction to the topic. It's a difficult topic to speak about when the crowd listening is so varied. Yet, it is my conviction that whether a person is married or single, an understanding of the biblical standards and purpose of marriage must be known. God even used the marriage relationship as an illustration of Christ's relationship with the church. 

So, we're going to swim through the cultural understandings and teachings regarding marriage and land firmly on the foundation of God's Word on this subject. It will not be an easy series, but will be "worth it."

The guys for the conference were there as soon as the 10:45am service was over. Warren Barfield and his brother Jeffrey arrived early and were in the foyer. They had been traveling all morning from Orlando and were in casual-mode (which is common for these guys. . .and makes them my heroes.) Warren shared that apparently, they confused or maybe even scared our ushers. One of our men kept quizzing them as to why they were there and just hanging out in the foyer. They laughed about it as they shared the encounter with me. Apparently, some of our ushers were at "Threat Level Red" and were concerned about these casually dressed guys with guitar cases claiming to be musicians. So much for first impressions.

Mike Williams, founder of Feed Your Faith, and the sponsor of the event arrived. They had just completed two days of conferences - one in Ocala and one in Winter Park. We were the last leg of this three day tour. I know these guys were beat, but they had great attitudes. There was a team of about 10 that were here to set up product tables, organize Feed the Hungry child sponsorships, set up the sound and stage and get everything ready for the event.

We had a great team of volunteers ready as well who gave up their early afternoon to get everything ready and just be available as needed. Thanks to all of them.

Kirk and his son Jack arrived and we set them up in the "green room."

We are at a point of having to fix that air conditioner in the "green room" - also known as the C Building. The comfort level in that room is terrible. Whew! I'm sweating just thinking about sitting in there. So, we ended up moving them to my office, where the air conditioner defintely works (just ask our secretaries.)

Kirk had a special Q & A time with those who purchased VIP tickets. This was a great time for him to share his story of how he came to Christ and why he does what he does. The questions were great, for the most part. As I was standing with Warren over to the side, he began sharing that just about in every town, an aspiring actress will arrive just to give Kirk a headshot photo with hopes he will pass it along so she can become the next big star. No, it's not the same woman in each city, but there seems to always be one.

Yes, there was one here yesterday as well. Kirk was gracious and took questions. Warren just hid in the corner and laughed.

The building started filling up and we knew that about 900 tickets were sold ahead of time. When the doors opened, people just kept coming. The worship center was as full as I've ever seen it. It made me wonder what a Sunday morning would look like if the house was packed. Maybe if Kirk was there each Sunday?

At our church, people often complain . . . voice their concerns about how cold it is in the worship center. That's one room where the air conditioner works very well. It was cool that morning, but apparently, when the doors are propped opened at noon as people are leaving church, all of the cool air flows outside. Go figure. Since it's 90+ degrees outside with a heat index of 187 degrees, the building doesn't stay cool. Then, when you shove 1200+ people into the building, all with their 98.6 degree temperatures, it gets hot in the room. 

Wow! I'm sorry it was so hot. I checked the air conditioner about five times during the event, and it was blowing. I knew it was working, because when everyone left, it was freezing in there. 

I was able to spend some time talking with Warren and his brother Jeffrey. I really like these guys. Not only are they gifted musicians and singers, there is a depth to them that is inviting. We talked for some time about church, frustrations, and family time and things I won't go into detail about. I look forward to finishing this conversation in the future. We may meet at Applebee's in Nashville sometime to talk more.

I also had the opportunity to talk with Kirk. Kirk has a passion for the things of God. One reporter asked me if I thought Kirk's celebrity status played a role in attracting people at the event. I wanted to say "Duh!" but didn't. Of course it plays a role, but the thing I discovered about Kirk, is that he understands God has given him a story. His story and his celebrity history as "Mike Seaver" has enabled him to have a platform for sharing boldly about Christ and about things that matter.

Kirk and Warren were great on stage. Kirk opened with a self-depracating act that took people back to the days of "Growing Pains." It was a good start because he knows that's where most people first came to know him. 

He soon transitioned into the teaching about life and marriage. He readily admitted he is not a marriage counselor or pastor. He shared that his experience as a Christian husband of twenty years to Chelsea Noble and father of six children gives him some things worth sharing.

The message was clear and plain. The points and ideas shared are not new, for there is nothing new under the sun, but were good, clear reminders of what it takes to live our lives for God and to be the husband or wife God has called us to be.

Later in the evening he used illustrations and clips from his film "Fireproof." These were great clips that really showed the truth of what he had been saying.

I personally liked his challenge to the men to be godly fathers and husbands. The "Mancard" he distributed had some great reminders for all husbands based on 1 Peter 3.

Warren didn't sing much, but when he did, it was incredible. What a voice! I love the acoustic set that he and Jeffrey put together.

Warren's most well-known song may be "Love Is Not A Fight" as featured in the film "Fireproof." One of the most poignant moments of the day was when Warren shared how the song came to be. I had thought he must have written it for the movie. That's not so. It was written after a pretty serious fight with his wife that almost led to their separation. Warrren has a great sense of humor and is a great story-teller. Even though the story about the fight was hard for him to share, the way he shared it drew the crowd in and held us. Then, he performed the song. Wow! It was an incredible moment. Much more than a "concert performance."

Events are not always the best things for churches to host. Many times, events are just events. What I mean by that is they are short-sighted and built upon a model that believes if people are in the building or that a group shows up, it is successful. 

I talked with Mike Williams about this and determined that this event would be more than just an "event." At least it had the potential to be. 

It really is up to the couples now. What will they do with what they heard?

Kirk asked me if we had a program for the couples to join that could help them in the area of marriage and life. I shared that our desire is that believers grow together in community. That is best fleshed-out in our small groups. Now some small groups don't get this and I'd never suggest anyone join them, but others do and more are beginning to. Joining a "Sunday School class" isn't the answer. Couples won't grow closer to each other and with other couples in community if they are just atteding a class one hour a week where someone else reads the Bible to them and tells them the "truth of the day."

However, if couples (and individuals) will invest in each other, if they will become a part of a small group that is intent on growing deeper and more intimate with God together, some incredible life change can happen.

Married couples need other married couples (men need men and women need women) living the journey with them. Older couples can pour into younger ones. Mistakes and challenges can be avoided. Life can be abudant and full. This is God's design. 

So, you can read a marriage book together. This is a good thing to do.

You can go to a marriage conference or retreat together. This is a good thing, too.

You can even go see a marriage counselor. Still another good thing.

However, it is my conviction, that couples need to be in community with other believers. It needs to be a pure, holy, safe community for faith development and growth. Love is worth fighting for, but you don't have to fight alone. 

The event started with fun stories and music and clapping and laughing. It ended with husbands and wives on their knees together praying for transformation in their lives. What happens now is dependant on the obedience of us as men and women, not to Kirk Cameron's challenge, but to God's calling.

Love is worth fighting for.

Your marriage is worth it.

Watch Courageous on Opening Weekend with First Baptist Church - Tickets Available Soon

We have been working on plans to securre theater space for the opening weekend of the new film Courageous. It looks like we will have the 8pm showings on Friday, September 30 and Saturday, October 1 athe AMC 24 Theatres in the Orange Park Mall.

Our plan is to have the tickets available at the church for purchase ($10 each) and we encourage everyone to purchase two tickets - one so they can view the film and one to give away.

We will also be gifting the Orange Park Police Department and the Orange Park Fire Department with two tickets each for officers and firefighters who wish to come to the premiere.

Watch the clip below for more details. . .

 

"Courageous" Opens September 30 - We Will Be There @courageousmovie

Last night my wife Tracy and I attended a pre-release screening of the new Sherwood Pictures film Courageous. This is the fourth release from Sherwood Baptist Church and the Kendrick brothers. Previous films (Flywheel, Facing the Giants & Fireproof) garnered quite a following and prompted some great ministry options for local churches. 

When we arrived back home, our children asked "Well, how was it?"

I responded, "It's the best yet."

To which they said, "You say that every time."

I do.

I really enjoyed the previous three films and was and am amazed that a local Baptist church was able to put together such moving, challenging and faith-filled movies. The fact that these films went nation-wide in local theaters rather than direct to DVD amazed me.

I went into the theater excited to see this new installment.

We're in the midst of summer blockbusters and while much of the buzz at the local theaters has been about Cars 2, Green Lantern and Captain America, I can honestly say I was more excited to see this film than any of those.

This film revolves around the lives of four deputies in Albany, Georgia (all the films take place in Albany and there are subtle references to the other three movies throughout, but you have to be clued in to catch them.) I don't want to be a spoiler because there are elements in this film that you need to experience first-hand. I will say this, the film begins with action and draws you in immediately.

The message is for men, fathers especially. It's challenging, hard-hitting and real. 

However, it's not just a men's movie. 

Some of the issues addressed are:

• Growing up without a father
• Dealing with divorce
• How to be more than a "good enough" father
• Why children are drawn to gangs and trouble
• Doing the right thing when it's not easy or popular
• Fathers connecting with sons
• Husbands connecting with wives
• Fathers loving their daughters
• Dealing with the death of a loved one
• Forgiving oneself
• Leaving the past behind
• Forgiving absentee dads
• Healing open wounds
• Trusting God when it's impossible
• Finding courage to be who God has made you

The only problem with viewing this film with your buddies or family members is that you will find yourself crying at times. Believe me, I don't care how "tough" you are, if you're a father, it will get you. I was glad the lights were down because the tears were rolling.

The Kendricks know the severity of the story and I appreciate the humor and levity throughout the film. I mean, just sitting in a theater blubbering for two hours is no fun. Laughter is needed and is great medicine.

Our desire as a church is to rent out a showing the opening weekend of September 30. The film will open at the AMC Theater in Orange Park Mall and I hope to secure at least one showing. I think a great plan would be for church members to purchase two tickets each. Then, we can see the film and give away tickets to friends and neighbors who need to see this.

As I'm watching the film, names of men in our community that I know are coming to mind. 

Believe me, the film is that powerful and worth it.

Our Real Men's Ministry is going to sponsor this. I hope you join us in promoting the film as it promotes REAL manhood and Jesus Christ as the Answer.

Check out the trailer below. . .