The Walls of Jericho

Humor

The new pastor decided to visit the children's Sunday school. The teacher introduced him and said, "Pastor, this morning we're studying Joshua."

"That's wonderful," said the new pastor, "let's see what you're learning. Who tore down the walls of Jericho?"

Little Billy shyly raised hand and offered, "Pastor, I didn't do it."

Taken aback, the pastor asked, "Come on, now, who tore down the walls of Jericho?"

The teacher, interrupting, said, "Pastor, Billy's a good boy. If he says he didn't do it, I believe he didn't do it."

Flustered, the pastor went to the Sunday school director and related the story to him.
The director, looking worried, explained, "Well, sir, we've had some problems with Billy before. Let me talk to him and see what we can do."

Really bothered now by the answers of the teacher and the director, the new pastor approached the deacons and related the whole story, including the responses of the teacher and the director.

A white-haired gentleman thoughtfully stroked his chin and said, "Well, Pastor, I move we just take the money from the general fund to pay for the walls and leave it at that."

Be Still And Know

By Stewart Whittemore

Remember that old adage: “Stop, Look and Listen?” It was good advice before we ventured out, especially before crossing railroad tracks or a busy intersection.
God has a similar command: “Be still, and know that I am God…”
What does "be(ing) still and know(ing) God" really mean?

This was brought home to me recently when I was talking to an old high school friend. I had an insight come across my mind that I wanted to share, but she didn’t stop talking long enough for me to get a word in.

I heard God say: "Do you see what I mean?" I now pay more attention to what God says through His Word.

In Luke 10:38-42 Martha complained to Jesus that while she was doing all the work Mary was sitting at His feet. "Jesus answered and said to her, 'Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her"' Luke 10:41-42 (NKJV)

We have to "be still" if we want to know God. Mary was not praying or talking, but intently listening. In spite of all the busyness going on around Mary, she was not distracted. Mary was focused and still. Mary "heard His word." She was hearing straight from the Master, not through others.

We can hear from God directly from reading His Word. Sermons are great and commentaries are very insightful, but they can never be a substitute for our own time with God to hear from Him firsthand.

When we make a conscious decision to be with God, He will make sure that time is not taken away from us. Martha was trying to get her sister away from Jesus to serve with her (as noble as that may seem), but Jesus would not let that happen. Our relationship with Jesus is much more important than any tasks. Therefore, we can be sure He will not let our time with Him be taken away either, if we chose to be with Him.

Choosing God to be first and foremost in our lives is choosing to: "be still and know that (He) is God..."

Let’s "be still" today, even if it is in our most difficult of times (see Psalm 46), because we know that Jesus has all the answers! We can be assured that our needs will be met.

Stewart Whittemore writes from Grants Pass, Oregon

I Had The Right To Be Angry!

By Linda Callahan

A friend had really taken advantage of me. I was furious and very hurt. I fumed around and thought of how I had been mistreated and used. As I went before God, I "explained" to Him the terrible abuse I felt from my friend.

To my surprise, God said to me, "Yes, you are right. You have a reason to be very angry--and hurt. You do have the right to confront that person. But Linda, you also have the right to not take up your rights. And you have the right to come give the whole situation to Me to handle. Will you be willing to give grace where pain is? Can you forgive when forgiveness is not asked for? Will you be willing to be at peace--extending grace? You have that right, too."

An overpowering thought came into me, as I realized I did have that power. I could confront that person. She had done wrong. But I also could just let God handle it.

I whispered a gentle prayer to God,
"God, I do give You the grace to handle that situation. And I also forgive the person of her act, even without her asking."

At that point, true love and forgiveness came into my heart. No longer did I want to retaliate. I saw my friend differently. Instead of a deceiving and cruel friend, I saw a person whom God loved just as much as He loved me. I saw a person who made a mistake; hadn't I made mistakes too? I saw a person that had many wonderful qualities, though she had slipped up. She still had many qualities that made her a true friend. I even wanted to reconnect with no malice towards her. She was my spiritual sister. I needed her, and she needed me--no strings attached.

In time my friend asked me to forgive her. She hadn’t seen that what she did was hurting me.
The Bible says, "His grace is sufficient for thee." And it was.

Linda Callahan writes from Central Point, Oregon. Check out her blog on LiftingTheCross.com

A Christmas Fable - The Symbols Of Christmas

By An Unknown Author

Just a week before Christmas I had a visitor. This is how it happened...

I just finished the household chores for the night and was preparing to go to bed, when I heard a noise in the front of the house. I opened the door to the front room, and to my surprise, Santa himself stepped out from behind the Christmas tree. He placed his finger over his mouth so I would not cry out. What are you doing? I started to ask him.

The words choked in my throat, as I saw he had tears in his eyes. His usual jolly manner was gone. Gone was the eager boisterous soul we all know.

He then answered me with a simple statement: "TEACH THE CHILDREN!"

I was puzzled: What did he mean? He anticipated my question, and with one quick movement brought forth a miniature toy bag from behind the tree.

As I stood there bewildered, Santa said, "Teach the Children! Teach them the old meaning of Christmas. The meaning that today’s Christmas has forgotten!"

Santa then reached in his bag and pulled out a FIR TREE and placed it on the mantle. "Teach the Children that the pure green color of the stately fir tree remains green all year round, depicting the everlasting hope of mankind. All the needles point heavenward, making it a symbol of man's thoughts turning toward heaven."

He again reached into his bag and pulled out a brilliant STAR. "Teach the Children that the star was the heavenly sign of promises long ago. God promised a Savior for the world, and the star was the sign of fulfillment of that promise."

He then reached into the bag and pulled out a CANDLE. "Teach the Children that the candle symbolizes that Christ is the light of the world, and when we see this great light we are reminded of He who displaces the darkness."

Once again he reached into his bag and then removed a WREATH and placed it on the tree. "Teach the Children that the wreath symbolizes the eternal nature of love. Real love never ceases. Love is one continuous round of affection."

He then pulled out from his bag an ornament of HIMSELF. "Teach the Children that Santa Claus symbolizes the generosity and good will we feel during the month of December."

He reached in again and pulled out a HOLLY LEAF. "Teach the Children the holly plant represents immortality. It represents the crown of thorns worn by our Savior. The red holly berries represent blood shed by Him."

Next he pulled out a GIFT from the bag and said, "Teach the Children that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift. Teach the Children that the wise men bowed before the holy babe and presented Him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. We should give gifts in the same spirit as the wise men."

Santa then reached in his bag and pulled out a CANDY CANE and hung it on the tree. "Teach the Children that the candy cane represents the shepherd's crook. The crook on the shepherd's staff helps bring back sheep strayed from the flock. The candy cane is the symbol that we are our brother's keeper."

He reached in again and pulled out an ANGEL. "Teach the Children that it was the angels that heralded in the glorious news of the Savior's birth. The angels sang 'Glory to God in the highest, on earth, peace and good will.'"

Suddenly I heard a soft twinkling sound, and from his bag he pulled out a BELL. "Teach the Children that as the lost sheep are found by the sound of a bell, it should ring people to the fold. The bell symbolizes guidance and return."

Santa looked at the tree and was pleased. He looked back at me and I saw the twinkle was back in his eyes. He said, "Remember, teach the children the true meaning of Christmas, and not to put me in the center, for I am but a humble servant of the One who is, and I bow down and worship Him, our Lord, our God."

Blood Brothers

Training and Combat Bond US And Iraqi Troops
Mark Finkelstein, Correspondent

Habbaniyah, Anbar Province (CNSNews.com) - On the banks of the Euphrates River, U.S. Marines training officers for Iraq's new army say they are forming close ties with their Iraqi counterparts, despite the challenges posed by concerns that some recruits may be motivated by objectives other than ensuring their country's security.

Gen. John Abizaid, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, told the Senate Armed Services Committee this week that U.S. troops must stay in Iraq until Iraqi security forces can take their place in securing the country.

As Iraqis become better trained, Abizaid said, the U.S. may be able to pull back major combat units.

Among the units being trained is the 1st Iraqi Army Division in Anbar, Iraq's largest and westernmost province.

At the base in Habbaniyah, Marine Col. Juan Ayala, a senior adviser with the Marine Military Transition Team, described to Cybercast News Service some of the challenges and achievements of the two-year-old training effort.

"We eat together, we talk together, we train together and we go out on missions together," Ayala said, noting that over time, strong bonds have developed between the U.S. and Iraqi troops.

The Marine Military Transition Team has been here since 2003, training the 1st Division in everything from the use of small arms to bomb disposal - even boat patrols, since the nearby Euphrates is used by insurgents for transport and resupply.

The 1st Division is recognized as one of the best in the Iraqi Army. And while recruiting Sunnis has been a challenge, overall recruitment levels have been increasing.

U.S. Navy Lt. Eric Torres, who trains Iraqis in both boats and small arms, told Cybercast News Service that Iraqi recruits are required to undergo four hours a day of small arms training, although some of his trainees spend up to 12 hours a day on the range.

Having been on numerous combat patrols with Iraqis, Torres said, "these Iraqi soldiers are absolutely ready, willing and able to fight."

Ayala said the Americans and Iraqi troops share a feeling of being in the battle together.

He told the story of being a joint patrol that came under attack. One Iraqi soldier died, and 11 others were wounded, along with two U.S. Marines, and the unit was evacuated to a hospital.

When Navy a doctor emerged from the operating room, covered in blood, an Iraqi officer asked him, "Whose blood is that?"

"It is [all] our blood!" Ayala told him, bringing tears to the Iraqis' eyes.

Amid the optimism, however, there are serious challenges. Ayala estimated that about 10 percent of the recruits here are in fact insurgents or members of sectarian militias.

(The situation is even worse in the Iraqi police force. The colonel said he spoke to one police administrator who estimated that 30 percent of his particular force are insurgents or militia members.)

"It's a risk that you have to take," Ayala said but also indicated that trusted Iraqis helped in the recruit screening process.

According to Lt. Col. Greg Brannigan of the Military Transition Team at Anbar's Al-Asad base, the trainers do speak to Iraqi recruits, who are trained for around 45 days, about the dangers posed to their country by sectarianism.

Trainers discuss with them how, by coming together as Iraqis, they can form a stronger country than if they continue to identify primarily as members of tribes or religious factions, he said.

Many of the Iraqis training at the base come from Shia areas in the south. When they are far from their home areas, Brannigan said, it is often easier to get them to move away from the tendency of identifying themselves primarily as Shia.

CNSNews.com Mark Finkelstein is on special assignment for Cybercast News Service in Iraq, where he is embedded with U.S. forces.

Being Number One

By Fred Wikoff

A few years ago a bestseller came out titled, Number One. In it the author, Robert Ringer cajoles his readers to put themselves first at all cost if they want to succeed in life. On the surface this sounds like good advice, especially to a world enamored with counting winners and losers.

But, the further I read, the more I realized that the author had taken a fragment of truth, man’s God given drive to do his best at the task at hand and, intentionally or not, shaped it into gigantic lie. The author makes no mention of concern for others, only gives advice on reaching the top by selfishly putting one’s self first, even at the expense of others.

The thing about being number one is that ultimately there can only be one winner . . . everyone else is a looser . . . that’s why it’s lonely at the top. This truth alone should cause every Christian, if not every person, to pause and at least rethink life’s priorities.

We all can’t be first. And placing ourselves first and our neighbors last is certainly not God’s way. It is in direct conflict with God’s commandment to love him with all our heart, soul, and mind and our neighbor as our self. (Matthew 22:38)

Remember Satan tried to be first and was kicked out of heaven. (Luke 10:18) Adam and Eve tried it and were kicked out of the Garden. (Genesis 3: 22-24) The Apostils argued among themselves about who would be first in the kingdom of heaven and Christ told them bluntly: “If any one would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” Mark 9:35

Christ made it clear what real winning is all about. It’s about loving our fellow man, our enemies, and praying for those who persecute us. (See Matthew 5:44) It’s about being humble not arrogant or boastful. (Luke 18: 10-14)

The real battle is with Satan for the hearts, minds and souls of mankind.

“Whoever would be first among you must be your slave; even as the Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:27

Fred Wikoff writes from Eugene, Oregon. EugeneSpud@msn.com

From the Glitz of Hollywood to the Light of the World

By Paul Potash and F. Calderone Blake

In the 1960's, folk music captivated audiences world wide. Among the chart-toping groups were the New Christy Minstrels. An alumnus of this group, Paul Potash, shares the awesome testimony of, not how he came to Christ, but how Christ came to him:

You can say I was raised in an Americanized ghetto in Paterson, New Jersey. My earliest perceptions of the Messiah? A mysterious person who'd someday come and make everything better.

In my teens, I met Art Podell. Two things he'd introduce me to--folk songs, and acoustic guitars--would someday become my livelihood. Following High School, Drama College, and military service, I reconnected with Podell, as folk music gained momentum.

By our early twenties, we'd appeared on national TV, and recorded an album with Columbia Records. We headed West, winning gigs in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Then, although we remained good friends, we discontinued our singing team. I landed acting parts in movies and TV dramas.

Another close friendship I forged was with talented musician, Barry McGuire. We sang and traveled together, and became neighbors. When the New Christie Minstrels, a folk group McGuire and Podell had joined, lost a member, my two friends recommended me for the opening. We scored best-selling record albums, guest appearances, and our own TV show. In 1965 we toured the world, in the process meeting Great Britain's rising stars, the Beatles.

At parties, people I considered nice friends, pressured me to join them in "recreational drugs." I tried marijuana, and hashish at first. The one I now recognize as the enemy hyped a new frontier to our culture--LSD. Its adverse aspects were never popularized then, only the "candy" part. Like Russian roulette, LSD nearly robbed me of my sanity.

Yet my heavenly Father provided His own angels and earthly saints on my behalf. Barry McGuire became a dynamic Christian, and told me, "You need Christ in your heart. Ask Him to be your Savior." I politely resisted. My life had hit bottom; I stopped singing, and acting; worked as a doorman, and gave guitar lessons to survive.

I was willing to try anything--meditation, cultic meetings, channelers, or Christianity, to me "just another of those dead-end roads." One morning as I exercised in my room, a series of severe spasms forced me to writhe on the floor. With each spasm I'd hear an involuntary sound from deep within me utter the word "God." Months later I'd learn the connection with Romans 1:18 to 20: “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.”

On another occasion, I envisioned a blinding light in a doorway surrounding a cross.

One couple I knew practiced an Eastern religion. Before a backdrop of fragrant smoldering incense, they chanted to a box on the wall. Still in darkness, at their urging, I directed a question to this box, their deity. Next morning I awoke with the name "Jesus" churning in my brain.

Then God sent me some eating issues, prompting me to join Overeaters Anonymous. A woman there invited me to a house meeting in Beverly Hills, where they sang as I sat with them. The keynote speaker walked in, and fixed his gaze toward me. This made me so uncomfortable that when he started preaching, I scurried out under conviction, yet not repentance.

Months later, God again prompted the woman to invite me to a Christian meeting near UCLA's campus. The preacher? The one from the Beverly Hills home I'd abruptly left. This time I didn't feel so uneasy. The music and singing in an environment of love drew me in. The Holy Spirit clearly touched me. I wept.

I continued attending, and after five months, I walked forward, said the prayer, and received the assurance of knowing Christ was in my heart. I couldn't get over who Jesus was, fully God and fully man. I found Barry McGuire and told him, "I'm a child of God. Christ is my Savior." He embraced me, and we continue emailing to this day.

When I was hired to lead music at a church in L.A., I met the most wonderful woman on earth, and married her. Because my dad had difficulty accepting the news that I'd become a Christian, he wouldn't attend my wedding. My mom and sister traveled to the ceremony where for first time ever, Mom entered a church.

If I could talk to Dad today, I'd explain, "I didn't stop being Jewish; I'm still an heir to the blessing that God chose to give Abraham and his descendents." The only difference in me is that I now embrace that precious Messiah Dad passed away still waiting for.

I view Christianity as a tribute to Judaism; it's not trying to cut the divide between the two, not plan "B.” It was God's plan all along to convict the Jews. The ones who "got it," such as Abraham and Moses, became our ancestral fathers; they were born again. The Scriptures confirm the Gospel--the cross, Adonai's plan of salvation. The Gospel of Jesus was God's intention even before time began.

Christians ask, "Paul, how did you come to choose Christ?" I reply, "I didn't choose Christ. He chose me." I believe it's important to make that distinction. The Messiah Himself said it when He was on earth:
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will last." John 15:16

Now all my songs are in praise and gratitude to my perfect Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, His Father, and His Holy Spirit.

Paul Potash writes from Southern California. F. Calderone Blake writes from White City, Oregon.

True Courage

By Judith Squier

“I’ll be so embarrassed if they recognize me,” I thought when I first noticed the local firemen in the checkout line ahead of me.

My mind flashed back fifteen years when four firemen barreled into the bedroom where I lay traumatized by child birth contractions five minutes apart. Those men had gotten an eyeful that day. Not only had they seen a woman fully exposed in childbirth, but their woman in distress was a double amputee with a set of artificial limbs standing beside the bed.

My legs weren’t the only thing missing. I’m ashamed to admit, I had not one ounce of courage as I shouted unceasingly, “Help me, help me, you have to help me.”

For fifteen years I’d prayed: “Lord, may I never meet the men who witnessed the lowest point of my life.” But, what if these guys at the checkout stand had been there?. Curiosity booted modesty aside as I inquired with a hushed voice, “By any chance, did either of you ever show up to deliver a baby in the house down the road?”

The fireman closest to me acknowledged that indeed he had been there and yes, he remembered me, but what he would never forget was that I was so brave!

Brave? Me? How could that be?

That’s not the first time “Much Afraid Me” had been dubbed a “Brave Heart.” More than once someone has glanced from my smile down to the place in my wheelchair where legs are supposed to be and said: “Surely, you could teach this world about courage.”

Actually, the truth is I could teach the world about fear. Fear that met me on operating tables, but was never talked about at the dinner table because we were all playacting courage. Funny how Christians, in particular, seem afraid to admit fear. Is it because they don’t think it Christian?

Fear, to me is the birthmark of a Christian. The delivery room for courage.

For me, courage begins WITHOUT courage. Courage begins with fear.

Courage is fear that says this prayer: “God, I can’t do this.”

And God meets our “I can’t do this,” with a non-condemning: “You’re so right, My child. Allow Me!”

True courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to do the thing I fear- in His Power.
With the knees knocking on my artificial limbs, I have learned to pray: “Lord, I will not only walk, but run the way of your commandments when You give me a heart that is willing.” Psalm 119:32 (Amplified Bible)

Judith Ann Squier writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. judyann777@aol.com

Handsome is as Handsome Does

By Martin A. Recio

Israel was the kingdom of God on earth, and His purpose was expressed in the mission of the nation. But their God was unseen, so the people wanted to see their ruler in the flesh. Although salvation was of God, the people wanted his power visibly embodied in a king.

The Selection of Saul
The people came to Samuel at Ramah and said: “You are old and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint for us a king to govern us like all the nations.” Samuel prayed to God about the people’s desire. They wanted a king to rule over them—as the nations around them. Samuel was instructed to grant their request. He brought all the tribes of Israel near, and from the tribe of Benjamin Saul the son of Kish was taken.

Saul was a handsome young man. There was not a man among all the people more handsome than he. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of his people.

Handsome, courageous in battle, taller by a head than all his people, Saul’s selection seemed exceptional. But the children of Israel had asked for a king after their own heart—a king like the kings of all the nations around them. They had not asked for a king after God’s own heart.

The people’s defect was in their form of outward conformity, with an utter want of inward surrender of the heart to the Spirit of God. Israel looked on the outward appearance, but God looked to the heart. And the children of Israel were looking on the outward appearance of the king they had requested.

A king like the kings of the nations around them was bound to fail. The nations around them were meant for destruction; their kings would perish with them.

Saul’s Failure and Rejection
There was not a man among all the people more handsome than King Saul. He had all the promise and possibility at the beginning of his reign. But handsome is as handsome does. And what handsome did was not always in the will of the Lord. From disobedience to the commandments of God, to his rejection from the kingship of Israel was the path Saul chose to trod.

Saul’s victory over the Ammonites was the high mark of his reign. With this victory he was recognized as king over all Israel. Thereafter, Saul began his fall from grace. In success he quickly forgot who had made him king. He had forgotten on whom the success of the kingdom depended.

Success, victory, and growth attended the nation as they faithfully worshiped and served the Lord God. The conquest of life depended on the spiritual vigor of both the King and the people. Then came the time appointed for sacrifice, to worship God and give thanks. Through Samuel, Saul had been instructed to wait—but he could not. He could not trust God with his whole heart.

His lack of faith and impatience caused him to intrude on the priestly office—and make the sacrifice himself. He thought that the outward conformity was all that was required—that the form in itself was sufficient. His act revealed his lack of spiritual perception. For Saul true religion was dulled by the impact of the apparent. He became a king estranged from, and unable to understand the heart of God.

Samuel said to Saul: “You have done foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God…now your kingdom shall not continue…The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart: and has appointed him to be prince over his people.” For want of inward spiritual submission to the will of God, Saul failed as King over God’s people.

After God’s Own Heart
The Spirit of the Lord would seek out and find a king for Israel after God’s own heart. The Spirit of Christ, our Savior, also seeks men and women for his Kingdom who follow after His own heart. Our Savior always spoke as from heart to heart: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me.”

“Be not slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken concerning Christ—that it was necessary for Christ to suffer these things and then to enter into his glory.” Still, the “slow of heart to believe,” those “troubled in heart,” and those of a “weak faith,” are bidden to come into the kingdom. But then, is this not all of us?

Our Savior’s grace can quicken the slow of heart, still the troubled in heart, and encourage a weak faith. These are His special concern. His love brings peace and assurance to every heart. Even today Christ stands at the door of our hearts. The gentle knock of His Spirit comes to our souls as the light touch of His grace. The King of kings bids us come into His kingdom. “Come,” He says, come with me into the heart of God.

Martin A. Recio writes from Ashland, Oregon.

A CHRISTMAS LOOK AT 1 CORINTHIANS 13

If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantata, but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child. Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way.

Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure.

Have the Courage to Make Good Choices

By Troy Pomeroy

We all esteem courage as a virtue. It is something that we aspire to for ourselves and admire in others. Our Heavenly Father made us to possess courage, as opposed to fear:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

Over and over, God tells us to “fear not” or “be strong and courageous.” He has to tell us that so often because sometimes we forget what we were created to be.

Many of us doubt our ability to be courageous. We think of courage as holding the line in a military battle or risking our life to save someone from danger. These are definitely heroic and courageous events, yet we don’t have to be in a military battle to display courage. There are plenty of battles to face in ordinary everyday life. Courage comes when you are faced with making a decision that affects your life and the lives of those around you.

The Bible has plenty of examples of courageous and not-so-courageous people to learn from. But, we all have examples in our own lives as well. We admire our parents, friends, neighbors, or co-workers because they have come through tough times that we can’t imagine going through ourselves. We are inspired by people who rise to life-challenges. Their lives are the product of making good decisions. Making good decisions requires courage.

Courage is not the absence of fear. It is deciding to move forward doing what we are supposed to do -- despite the fear. God has equipped us to handle the fears and obstacles that come our way in life. We can gauge our courage by the choices we make when faced with difficult situations.

God doesn’t usually ask us to lead a nation out of slavery as He called Moses to do, but He does ask us to lead our families. We might not be asked to march around a fortress until it topples, but we are asked to defeat the forces of the enemy in our lives. We may not be put in a fiery furnace, but we often face circumstances that test our resolve and integrity.

We don’t need to compare ourselves to brave characters in history, on TV, or in the movies. Will we do as well as they did? Maybe. Maybe not. The real question is how well we do in our battles. Do we stay in our marriage when it gets “rocky” for a time? Do we swallow our pride and ask forgiveness from those we’ve wronged? Do we tithe even when the bills keep coming in? Do we speak the truth even when it costs us to do so? Are we willing to ask for help when we need it? Are we willing to stand up for what is right? And the clincher: Do our actions match our beliefs on a regular basis?

If we can answer these types of questions in the affirmative, then we are displaying courage. We may never have a movie made about our lives, but courage in everyday life and the choices we make can certainly inspire others. They are watching to see if we are courageous or not.

Troy Pomeroy writes from Eagle Point, Oregon. pastortroy@epacenter.com

Book For Holiday Gifts

By Kathy Anderst with Cassidy Janisch

If you enjoy giving books as gifts during the holidays, the following suggestions may help you make some great choices.

INSIDE THE MYSTERIES OF THE BIBLE
(new perspectives of ancient truths)
American Bible Society- on display at Barnes & Nobles until 1/15/07
With stunning color photographs and eye catching graphics, this large 126 page paperback is geared towards giving a modern day perspective as to the relevancy of the bible and also provides motivation to explore it with a new eye. Covering every aspect of the Bible from the Flood story to Creation and old testament drama, this is a great read for any believer but also would prove of interest to those who are cynical or seeking. Easy Reading. Beautifully illustrated.

THE GOOD LIFE
by Chuck Colson (Zondervan)
Forwarded by Rick Warren (The purpose driven life), this extremely interesting and well-edited book exposes our culture of post-moderism thinking for what it is. It has a healthy and honest dose of Chuck Colson's own personal and political rise and fall as well as his conversion experience. There are moving stories of unknown heroes for Christ, and other sad and tragic stories of those who have chosen to go the world's way. This is a very relevant book for all Christians and seekers alike, and answers a lot of hard questions. A real page-turner with something to "sink your teeth into".

JOURNEY OF DESIRE
by John Eldredge (Nelson)
One of the most deeply moving and personal books by John Eldredge, from my perspective. A must read for anyone seeking a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Addressing the human core of spiritual yearning in all of us, the author lays out the meaning of desire and how easily it can be misplaced with longing for the things of this world. With wonderful metaphors as you travel through the book, you won't be disappointed.

Children's Pick by Cassidy Janisch
WORDS BY HEART
by Ouida Sebestyen
Trouble begins when Lena, a black girl in an all white town wins the Scripture Quoting Contest. She thought that winning would make everyone notice her "magic mind" and make her papa proud. But instead of honor and respect, violence and death erupt striking the one person she loves the very most. She always thought that revenge was best, but now she must learn to forgive.

Trucker's Ministry

By Richard Giles

A trucker’s ministry called “Truckstop Ministries” is working out of the Petro truck stop near Medford since February 2004. The ministry is coordinated by Richard Giles who though raised in a Christian home and felt called into ministry in his senior year of high school ran from God for 45 years before he finally surrendered to God’s will.

When Richard attended a pastor’s breakfast in October 2003 he met Joe Hunter a trucker who started “Truckstop Ministries” in Jackson, Georgia. At that moment Richard knew he was suppose to get involved with this ministry and start a work in the Medford area. Soon Richard was holding trucker’s fellowship meetings every Sunday morning in the TV lounge. Recently a Thursday evening Bible study was added at 7:00 pm.

Richard has won favor with management at the truck stop and they are willing to let him create a permanent chapel with a chaplain available to drivers 24/7 but Richard needs the help of the Christian community.
All truckers need Jesus, so Richard is asking for people to:

1. PRAY
This is the most important. Richard says that the work is growing and there is a great need for workers. Jesus told us to pray for workers.

2. GIVE TIME
Teams of Bible teachers and helpers are needed who will commit to being at the truck stop once a month to teach a Bible study or to talk to the drivers at least one evening a week. This is usually more of a “one-on-one” than a teaching situation. You will be trained before you are sent out alone. Singers/Musicians are also needed.

3. FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Richard asks that some churches consider including “Truckstop Ministry” in their missions budget and/or personal giving. The long range goal is to have a chaplain at all the truck stops in this area. That will take many people donating to this ministry.

“Truckstop Ministry” is a three-way partnership. The local truck stop furnishes the space for a chapel and the utilities. National “Truckstop Ministry” furnishes all the material such as Bibles, tracts, tapes and any other literature that’s is distributed at the truck stop. Local churches and donors support the onsite chaplains.

“Truckstop Ministry” currently has chapel services in 67 locations in 28 states. In 1998 “Truckstop Ministries” was appointed as the official chaplain program of Petro Stopping Centers, a nation wide chain of truck stops, based in El Paso, TX. Currently, the company operates over 65 locations, like the one here in Medford.
Information packets are available for those interested in getting involved. Contact Richard Giles at (541) 941-5026 or call the national office at (800) 248-8662.

Richard Giles writes from Medford, Oregon. rbgiles@earthlink.net

Audio 'Bible Experience' a Big Hit

By James Prichard
The Associated Press

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- It's an epic telling of the life of Jesus…an ambitious production featuring an all-star cast. But it's not a movie or miniseries.It's a new audio Bible released by Zondervan, one of the world's largest publishers of religious books.

"Inspired By ... The Bible Experience: New Testament" features a large, all-black cast including some of Hollywood's biggest names. And in the world of audio books, it's a smash.

It has been at or near the No. 1 spot among the best-selling books listed on Wal-Mart's Web site since its early fall release. The retail chain Family Christian Stores say it's the fastest-selling audio Bible it has ever stocked.

The 21-hour production, which lists for $49.99, features the voice talents of more than 250 singers, clergy and actors, including Denzel Washington, Cuba Gooding Jr., Angela Bassett and Alfre Woodard. Blair Underwood portrays Jesus, and Samuel L. Jackson, who played a Scripture-spouting hit man in "Pulp Fiction," is the voice of God.

"It's really good and it's transcending every barrier. We're thrilled with the way that the product has turned out," said Paul Caminiti, vice president and publisher of Bibles for Zondervan, a Grand Rapids-based division of News Corp.-owned HarperCollins.

Zondervan started shipping "Bible Experience" in late September and has sold more than 70,000 units, Caminiti said. By comparison, Zondervan, which publishes the five best-selling audio Bibles in the United States, sells about 60,000 units each year of its longtime top-seller, the "New International Version Audio Bible."

"Bible Experience" is available on CD and in mp3 formats, with an Old Testament version due in fall 2007 that is expected to run much longer. It will feature many of the same well-known actors, although someone will take over for Jackson as God, a role that will balloon from about two hours to more than 70 hours.

The project is the brainchild of Kyle Bowser, a former television executive with a law degree. At Fox Broadcasting Co. in the early 1990s, he helped develop such TV shows as the sketch comedy series "In Living Color," a show with a mostly black cast that also propelled white comedian Jim Carrey to stardom, and the Charles S. Dutton situation comedy "Roc." Dutton is one of the performers on the new audio Bible.

Bowser, who is black, said he recommitted himself to Christianity in 1997 around the time his wife, TV sitcom producer Yvette Lee Bowser, was pregnant with their first child. A few years later, he bought a 65-CD audio Bible that he quit listening to "after the first two or three discs" because he was not inspired by the storytelling.

"The production value was lacking and I thought, gee whiz, if we could do this and really capture people's attention, how much more impactful and engaging it might be," he said.

Bowser formed a Beverly Hills, Calif.-based production company called Inspired By Media Group with three fellow Christians: new media executive Ron Belk, music producer Louis "Buster" Brown and casting director Robi Reed, who was principally responsible for getting commitments from the talent.

About a year and a half ago, an agent representing the four partners approached Zondervan with their idea. The publisher agreed to provide financing as well as text from its Today's New International Version Bible, a conversational translation aimed at young readers.

"Bible Experience" spent several years in development before recording started last December. Work on the entire New Testament, plus part of the Old Testament, was completed by July 1.

Underwood said in a written statement that he was proud to have worked on the project, which he said was a "unique and timely" version of the Bible.

The producers decided early on to cast only black actors and other personalities, hoping to attract a black audience, as well as fans of some of the world's biggest box-office draws. They also wanted to shatter the Hollywood mold of white Bible productions.

"I was particularly interested in developing a product that might resonate with the African-American community," Bowser said. "I've long felt that Christian product tends to ignore our perspective."

He called it "a gift from our community to the world to be shared and appreciated by all."

"Bible Experience" features a complete, original musical score with selections performed by the Prague Symphony Orchestra. Its state-of-the-art sound effects take listeners into the story.

Virtually every actor whom Reed approached immediately agreed to participate. All performers received union scale pay with a few of the biggest names promised "nominal" percentages of profits, Bowser said.

"No one did this for the money," he said.

There was some debate among the producers whether to restrict the cast to Christians. They finally decided not to, since the Bible is filled with both Christians and non-Christians, Bowser said.

"That way we availed ourselves to the best talent in the community," he said. "But I can tell you, whether they were believers or nonbelievers, everyone that participated came with a high degree of reverence and total respect for the significance of this project."

You Are Cordially Invited

By Lynn Ludwick

We joke in our family about my sister’s enthusiasm for life. (Actually, we’re all a bit envious of Charlotte) I teased her recently, saying if she opened a new jar of jam, she’d call a few friends and invite them over for a toast party. It reminds me of God and Christmas—He was enthusiastic for His plan, eager to share it with the entire heavenly host.

My imagination stirs. I envision angels batting their wings in utter shock when they heard The Plan. Their beloved Jesus, eternal member of the holy Trinity, going down to live among thankless, irresponsible mortals? How their eyes must have registered disbelief when they were informed of the means—human birth.

And come to earth He did, but not taking on humanity as if it were a rented tuxedo—wear it for the special event, then return it to the store. No! He became one of us. For all time and eternity. We call it Christmas.

So, pondering Good’s plan, I’m going to make sure this year that my holiday activities—from baking to shopping to decorating to wrapping to being with family and friends—are done as a celebration with Jesus in mind. As I whip up a batch of my butterscotch fudge, I’ll ponder Mary. She too stirred ingredients to feed her family. And wasn’t she an amazing woman, the one who took the shocking news of the virgin birth with these words: “I am the Lord’s servant…May it be to me as you have said.” Luke 1:38

Some of my family members deny God’s existence. The angel’s reassurance concerning the upcoming miracle will give me hope for a day when those folks join their hearts and voices with mine singing Christmas carols as worship to the newborn king. “For nothing is impossible with God.” Luke 1:37

When I’m stuck in holiday traffic, surrounded by drivers who forgot to put on their Christmas spirit when they started the day, the shepherds might come to mind. Those humble men journeyed to Bethlehem to see “this thing that has happened.” Luke 2:15 They too braved jostling, boisterous crowds that first Christmas night, and I’m sure most of them were no more enthusiastic than many of the shoppers and drivers I encounter.

If I’m tempted to succumb to commercialism and Christmas becomes a mad rush of long lists and hectic schedules, I’ll remember that I’m preparing for a party. I’ll shop with enthusiasm, anticipating the recipient’s pleasure. And my beloved Christmas carols—I can sing them verse after verse, songs learned in childhood. This year I’ll sing them with more focus and intensity, directing praise to the One whose birth we celebrate.

While I know that fudge and evergreen trees, silver wrapped presents and cookie exchanges have no deep spiritual implications in and of themselves, I can allow them to serve as reminders of the real meaning of Christmas.

Come January I’ll tuck away all my holiday finery and Christmas will be over for another year. God, however, never ends His celebration and even had two more in mind. The overture to the second one was the crucifixion. The agony, the wretchedness of it all. But God stuck to His plan and the event ended with resurrection, a glorious contrast to its evil beginning.

God’s final party is a future event. Jesus first ventured to earth over 2,000 years ago and satisfied our sin debt before returning to His Father. However, He will come again. (Acts 1:11) We may join Him in heaven, with all eternity to celebrate and praise and worship our glorious Lord. He cordially invites us, come one, come all, to each of these parties.

Our RSVP is an acknowledgement of Jesus Christ as Lord of the Universe, now and forevermore. Let’s start celebrating our acceptance this Christmas. “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” Psalm 100:1-2

He came! He lives! He’s coming again! So let’s party—I know Charlotte and I will.
“…to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.” (Zechariah’s prophecy of Jesus in Luke 1:74-75)

Lynn Ludwick writes from Shady Cove, Oregon. Lynniegirl45@hotmail.com

THE ACTIVITY DIRECTOR AND “REALITY”

By Patti Iverson

“Ethel, sit here in your wheelchair by the glass door and wait for kiddos arriving home from school.” Now, how did that dear little lady know it was three o’clock? She doesn’t know her name or location, but by golly, her 76 and 80 year olds should be coming any minute now! Every day, the same routine. She waits, and then I wheel her to the dinner table, her young’uns long forgotten. But it is her reality, and she lives it in genteel grace.

Good ol’ Mac is 84 years old, blind and in his “Neverland fantasy” world until he hears that familiar Jimmy Dorsey big band sound, and whap! He’s on his feet, arms extended, waiting for me to fall into them for a lilting waltz. No matter that I can’t dance. He’s so happy in his “old world” reality, leadin’ ‘n twirlin’ no matter how klutzy ‘n clumsy his partner.

Every year the gentlemen visited my Fire Chief husband’s station. Those dear firefighters treated the guys as just that: “the guys.” Not victims of Alzheimer’s or dementia. They discussed couplings, velocity, water, engines and manly man things. My men nodded heads and “uh-hum” a lot, spending so much time pondering rigs that I had to drag them away. Yet, the manly men also proudly wore stick-on badges proclaiming “Junior Fire Marshal” in a simple, child-like manner that made me love them more.

Fishing and County Fair days brought out the best in the best of my charges. Country drives and meals in restaurants were treats and trials. “No way! You cannot wear a bib! Dribble and drool if you must, but we want to at least try to look like the general public! No, Sadie, you cannot keep those sunglass clip shades up on your glasses. Frank, if you don’t zip those pants right now…” and on it goes. Patience is the name of the game. You think I’m talking about me? No, these dear ones have to exercise the most patience of all, on a moment-by-moment basis, with themselves. (ok, with me, too!)

“Doggone it, Millie! Please don’t wreck ‘n ruin the bingo game for everyone else. I know you want to play, and so you can, but stay at this table with your own chips and your own card and stop taking Ed’s! I mean it this time, or you will go back to your room.” Well, that lasts about three minutes!

The State requires many regulations. The bane of my existence was documentation every day, recording how I covered emotional, spiritual, physical, mental, social, and other needs in my daily interactions with residents. In one nursing home it was 133 folks, in another only 33. A director has to go with the flow.
Yes, their brains were muddled, mixed up, and mired inside, but how wonderful when the “windows of lucidity” would shine through with clarity, occasional joy or a yuk it up joke. Then we were really cookin’! Often a bit of sorrow at their circumstances would also creep in and rear its ugly head. This is where a short memory, or just a “window” is a blessing.

But, even if lucidity never came, there were stories to be read, songs to be sung, balls to be tossed, walks to be taken. Sometimes just sitting quietly holding hands is enough.

Quickies were hugs, smiles, and even just an “I love you, Martha,” which is a rather easy gift to bestow on a dear soul perched in a hallway wheelchair waiting as life goes by, as life is wont to do, with or without a mind fully aware.

I joyfully served nursing homes and retirement centers for many years. Oh, how angry it makes me to hear unkind and unthinking people call it a “mausoleum.” Grrrrrrrr! It is no such thing. A home of elders is full of life being lived as best they can, now, in their reality, which is simply different from the “norm,” if you can call this world, your world, and all its “realities” normal.

These souls lived, served, worked, prayed, loved, fought, made babies, contributed to society, and left their marks on our world. A few were just plain scoundrels in their past selves. Many held lofty positions building spacecraft for NASA, or lowly positions sweeping floors in a monastery, but all interesting, valuable, and real.

I loved Leona’s tales, as a hairdresser who coiffed Amelia Earhart before she took her infamous, never to return flight. I’d not believed it if it weren’t for that picture of her and Amelia on the wall, and the family backing up the story.

Often realities and memories get fuzzy and stories become more a blur of fancy than fact. But then, in actuality, so do mine. Or yours, for that matter! We are a peculiar people, and getting more so by the year. That’s a good reason to savor reality as you have it now, or change it now, and allow elders their reality with grace, love, and laughter.

Patti Iverson writes from Medford, Oregon. randpi@charter.net

BE STRONG AND OF GOOD COURAGE

By Barry N. Shaw

Moses said to the Israelites as they were about to enter the promised land: “Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, He it is that doth go with thee; He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Deuteronomy 31:6 (KJV)

There have been many who have lived their lives by this Biblical truth. John Huss, a Bohemian scholar at the University of Prague in the fifteenth century was a “man for all seasons.” Huss knew the Lord would not forsake him and courageously expressed his moral indignation against the corruption of the church at the time. The church was split from top to bottom in 1378. There were two Popes and two colleges of cardinals, a French Pope at Avignon and an Italian Pope at Rome. The rival Popes fought over ecclesiastical offices and the clergy were demoralized. Power and money were more important than spiritual guidance. The Avignonese Popes systemized the established methods of taxation and invented new ones. The “annates”(first year’s income earned by the most important clergy) and the “procurations” (visitation fees earned by visiting bishops from the diocesan churches) were claimed by competing popes. “Simony” (the sale of church offices) was the norm.

In England and elsewhere, the cries for reform were deafening. John Wyclif, a scholar at Oxford, wrote powerful articles protesting the papal supremacy and the wealth of the clergy. He denied the power of the clergy to grant absolution from sins. His ideas rang loud throughout Europe.

John Huss accepted the writings of Wyclif and used them as a basis for his own defiant preaching. Huss was ordered to appear before Pope John XXIII, and defend his alleged heretical preaching. At that time, Pope John XXIII was waging war against the King of Naples and was giving full remission of sins to all who would assist him in his war. Huss was outraged by the Pope’s acts of absolution in exchange for financial support to fight a war. He openly referred to the Pope as the “antichrist.” The citizens of Prague were divided: those who supported Huss and those who did not. King Wenceslaus, fearing insurrection, had Huss removed from his church and banned him from Prague.

Huss courageously challenged the King’s decree banning him from Prague. Openly and defiantly he stated that the Pope and the cardinals were not the true successors of Peter and the Apostles; Christ, not the Pope, was the Head of His church; not the cardinals, but Christ’s faithful people were the body of the Catholic Church; the Pope and his cardinals were not the final word, but the Holy Scripture was the inspired Word of God; and the high clergy were falsifiers of the Holy Scriptures. Foxe’s Book of Martyrs

Huss was excommunicated and imprisoned for his stand against ecclesiastical corruption. He was charged with heresy for speaking against the church. A Council at Constance was convened to try Huss as a heretic. The questions posed to Huss at the “trial” bring to mind the trial of Sir Thomas More who was falsely accused of heresy in order to remove him as Lord Chancellor of England so that Henry VIII could break with Rome and start his own church, divorce his queen Catherine who hadn’t given him a male heir, and marry Anne Boleyn. The movie: “A Man for All Seasons,” is a wonderful account of Sir Thomas More’s deep faith and courage.

The Council at Constance required John Huss to do three things in order to establish his innocence:
(1) confess that he erred in his preaching against the Pope;
(2) agree not to continue such preaching; and
(3) recant the articles he’d written criticizing the church. Huss refused, for he believed he’d spoken truth placed before him by the Lord. He knelt before the Council and prayed: “Lord Jesus Christ! Forgive mine enemies by whom Thou knowest that I am falsely accused, and that they have used false witness and slanders against me; forgive them, I say, for Thy great mercy’s sake.” He was condemned to death by the Council and thereafter taken to the place of execution where, while praying and reciting Psalms 31 and 51, was burned at the stake on July 6, 1415.

John Huss was a man of great courage in Jesus Christ. He feared not his transgressors for the Lord was with him. The Lord did not forsake him. The Lord did not fail him. For the Lord lead him to speak the truth no matter what the earthly consequences. “...Christ is faithful as a Son over God’s house. And we are His house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.” Hebrews 3:6.

Barry N. Shaw writes from Applegate Valley, Oregon

Coming Changes In The Christian Journal….

The Courage To Prune

There are times in life when cutting back is the best decision to make because it leads to growth. A quick look at the story in John 15 that Jesus shared the last night with His disciples shares this concept. Jesus talked about being the vine and His disciples were the branches. He talked about how God would prune them to make them more fruitful. We know that this is true for literal grape vines, but often when it comes to our lives we aren’t so sure. No one likes to get pruned! It can hurt. It can be confusing. It can seem like punishment, yet most of us have been through the process at one time or another in our lives and as we look back at it we realize that it was a God-thing. He stepped in, did His work of pruning and the end result was a less cluttered life, a more productive life, a life filled with more joy, etc.

The Christian Journal is being pruned after this issue.

For some time we have enjoyed extended growth beyond our original boundaries. We have been honored at the response from readers in areas like Eugene, Crescent City, Brookings, Roseburg, Coos Bay and more. We have supplied papers to these areas at an expense that was carried by our advertisers from the Rogue Valley. We knew that eventually the cost needed to be picked up by supporters from these new areas, but it hasn’t happened.

So, to be fair with our supporters from the Rogue Valley who faithfully give us their advertising dollars we are cutting back. We want to do everything we can to support those who support us. We want the papers that were being sent to areas outside the Rogue Valley to come back and reach more people there. We want to build our base even stronger than ever to be more “fruitful” for God’s work.

What does this mean for our readers in the areas we are cutting back? This means there is a new opportunity for you!

1. You have the opportunity to get The Christian Journal sent directly to your home each month! You don’t have to go find it somewhere, it will come to you! And, to help you with this change we will give you a special offer. For anyone living north of Grants Pass or on the Coast we will help subsidize your subscription to The Christian Journal for your first year for $15 rather than the regular price of $20. (This will be for December and January orders only).

2. You have an opportunity to start your own Christian newspaper to reach your area much more effectively than we ever did. And, we will help you! We have done all the work of putting together great issues with themes like Salvation, Assurance, Hope, Courage, Peace, Joy, etc. These can be tailor made to fit your area. We change the information that needs to be changed to fit you and your area. We take out our advertisers and insert your advertisers. We take the finished product to a printer and you distribute it. It’s becomes your job to gather the advertisers and distribute the paper and the growth is much more fruitful!

There may be an individual that feels led by the Lord to do this. Perhaps it has been your dream for some time to begin a work like this. Or there may be a church that wants a new ministry to reach beyond their walls to touch their community for Jesus. Or there may be a group of men or women who want to make a difference. We are confident that the Lord has someone who will rise to this challenge and have the courage to step out and start The Christian Journal in Eugene or Roseburg or Crescent City or Coos Bay.

Feeling called, but afraid? Read this issue on courage.

Look at the verses in the Bible. Remember what Jesus said about stepping out in faith. "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9,10

The Christian Journal is using courage to prune to be more fruitful.

Are you being asked to use courage to touch your community in a new way that will reach so many outside conventional church walls?

If you feel the call…pray. Talk to our CEO about it. If you sense His leading on this…call us at (541) 773-4004 and we will begin the process. Perhaps in 2007 there will be several Christian Journals in Oregon!

Movie Review: A Christmas Carol

By Jennifer Anne Messing

Rated PG. Some images may be too frightening for young children.
*Recommended for viewing by adults with kids, ages 11 and up. Parental input advised.*

Check your favorite video rental stores for availability.

A Christmas Carol is a one-hour, forty minute, 1984 Entertainment Partners Production/Twentieth Century Fox movie release, in color, directed by Clive Donner, starring George C. Scott, David Warner, Frank Finlay, Susannah York, and Fred Holywell. It is based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens. This yuletide drama/fantasy set in 19th century England is sure to delight and bring some holiday spirit into your home.

Ebenezer Scrooge is a wealthy man who has made it his life’s goal to succeed in business at all costs and share his wealth with no one. His driving ambition to become rich and successful had even prevented him from marrying a beautiful woman earlier on in his life, and as the years have passed he has had no one to share his life and his fortune with.

On Christmas Eve Scrooge goes about his normal business and keeps up his miserly ways, not wanting to spend his holidays with any relatives nor even share a dime of his money with the poor. He’s firmly convinced that people who celebrate Christmas by giving love and presents to their family and friends are fools who are wasting their time. Scrooge does not even have a kind word or present for his faithful employee, Bob Cratchit (David Warner). When Scrooge’s nephew, Fred Holywell (Roger Rees) invites Scrooge to have Christmas dinner with him and his wife, Scrooge refuses and makes it clear he wants to have nothing to do with them.

Later that evening, after Mr. Scrooge has gone home to his empty house and has locked his doors, he has a most unusual encounter . . . or is it a frightening dream? The ghost of Mr. Marley (Frank Finlay), Scrooge’s long time deceased business partner, appears and warns Scrooge about the future consequences of living a selfish and greedy life. Marley also tells Scrooge that before Christmas morning he will have three more visitors.

That night, after Scrooge has gone to sleep, he meets the three strange visitors and lives through a night he will never forget. The three ghosts ultimately have a strong and clear message for Scrooge about the need for him to open his heart and his life, and even his pocketbook, to express love to his family and friends—before it’s too late.

This version of A Christmas Carol is very well-done and has many outstanding features. The fact that it was filmed in Shrewsbury, a historic English town, gives it an authentic feel of Victorian England during Dickens’ time. The historic buildings and homes and the period costumes make this film vividly picturesque as well as warm and inviting. Much of the stirring dialogue is taken directly from Dickens’ novel and the script accurately follows the story found in the novel. Some other versions of A Christmas Carol don’t follow the original story quite as closely.
The casting and the fine performances of the leading and supporting players make this movie a real treat. George C. Scott portrays Scrooge as cold, selfish, even nasty—yet he is still able to draw your sympathy at times. David Warner is perfectly cast as Bob Cratchit, a kind man and faithful employee who is also a loving husband and committed family man. Even the ghosts all render memorable and appropriately haunting performances. Parents are advised that some of the ghost scenes may be a bit frightening for children aged 10 and under.

A Christmas Carol is filled with many scenes that stir up memories of joyful family gatherings as well as scenes that are thought-provoking and which urge one to examine the life he or she is living. Are the life choices we’re making today ones that we’ll be glad we made 10 or 15 years from now—or are they choices we will regret or, even worse, have negative consequences we cannot undo? Perhaps Scrooge had overlooked a very important thing that Norman MacEwan sums up very wisely, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

Overall, A Christmas Carol is entertaining and upholds traditional family values. It’s the type of movie that can be viewed and enjoyed many times and can be added to your list of holiday favorites. May you and your family have a blessed Christmas!

Jennifer Anne Messing of Southeast Portland is the author of over 140 articles and a gift book, In the Shadow of His Wings. JenniferAnneMessing@comcast.net, or www.JenniferAnneMessing.com

THE NATIVITY STORY

THE NATIVITY STORY chronicles the arduous journey of two people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. This dramatic and compelling story comes to life in a major motion picture starring Keisha Castle-Hughes (Whale Rider) as Mary, Oscar Isaac (Guerrilla) as Joseph, and Academy Award® nominee Shoreh Aghdashloo (House of Sand and Fog) as Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. The Nativity Story is directed by Catherine Hardwicke (Thirteen, Lords of Dogtown) from a screenplay by Mike Rich (The Rookie, Finding Forrester). It is scheduled for a December release.

ABOUT THE STORY

The film’s journey to the big screen began back in 2004 when screenwriter Mike Rich found himself inspired during the Christmas season.

“I noticed a handful of magazine articles on the Nativity, on Mary and Joseph, the Magi, the shepherd; all of the characters I’d carefully placed in my family’s Nativity set every year when I was growing up,” says Rich. “And it occurred to me that while I knew, visually, how the journey to Bethlehem ended, I had very little idea of how they got there, what kind of people they were, and what kind of challenges they likely faced. As a person of faith myself, and as a storyteller, those were compelling questions.”

Those questions proved compelling enough that Rich set out to extensively research the subject, spending the majority of 2005 studying every aspect of the story and turning it into a screenplay.

In order to create the film version of this well-known story, Rich researched not only the people involved, but the era in which they lived as well. In addition to his own in-depth research, Rich turned to a number of experts from a variety of fields and enlisted their help to assure the accuracy of his work.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

The attention to detail and commitment to authenticity extended beyond the screenplay to the production itself. In search of the perfect backdrops, producer Wyck Godfrey traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of locations that still had the right look and feel for the project. Unfortunately, there has been so much modernization in the country that shooting in Israel was ruled out early on.

Production Designer Stefano Ortolani began the work of constructing a version of Nazareth in Matera, a small town in Southern Italy that the filmmakers found to be the perfect location for the production. “Matera is more authentic than the actual sites now,” says Rich. “Present-day Nazareth is a modern town. Jerusalem is a very modern town. Even Bethlehem is not what it used to be. Matera offers absolutely every authentic aspect of those communities.”

With Matera providing the perfect backdrop, Ortolani and his team set about to bringing their re-created Nazareth to life. The production team took existing rock and matched it with plaster replicas to create buildings and passageways.

Villages were always centered around the well, so the art department laid out a city built upon that principle and positioned other community buildings such as the olive press, the wine press and the synagogue nearby. Houses were positioned up the hill as the town would naturally expand upward, away from the flat lands that would have been used for the wheat and grape fields.

Consultants and scholars from the Nazareth Village served as advisors on the town’s construction. Some of them even traveled to Italy to lead the actors and production team in a “Nazareth Boot Camp.” Cast members were given lessons in how to bake bread, milk goats, press olive oil, and plant wheat. As the character of Joseph is building his home throughout the film, Oscar Isaac even went so far as to help in erecting the actual building that his character would live in with Mary.

The production also made sure to make the most of the backdrops that their location naturally provided. Throughout the town of Matera, there are a series of caves, called the Sassi. On the town side of the valley is the Sassi Barisano, which are homes, restaurants and churches built into the bedrock of the mountain. And on the other side, the more naturalistic Sassi Caveoso, which are nothing more than primitive community of rock-cut homes set in the hillside where people had lived during and after prehistoric times.

The art department took their cues from the landscape and created the town of Bethlehem surrounded by several natural caves cut into the rock. Once again matching stone with plaster, they took special care in building stables for animals using natural woods and twine that would have been available at the time.

The Grotto where Mary would give birth to the Christ child proved to be a monumental undertaking. In design the space had to accommodate several sheep, chickens, Joseph’s donkey and an enormous cow, her calf and have a cut-out for the Star of David to shine through. The plans were drawn up and construction was almost completed when Catherine and Director of Photography Elliot Davis came to pre-light the set for shooting before everyone realized the set was too small to get a camera inside. So the side walls were expanded to allow for more room and provide an entrance for Joseph to carry Mary through the side opening and using the outward framework to re-create the quintessential nativity scene.

The dedication to every little detail of the production is reflective of the overall approach to this film that has been taken by everyone involved in its creation. From the writer to the director, the cast to the crew, it is clear that The Nativity Story is much more than just another film project.

“Everybody involved really shares a passion for this particular story,” says Rich. “I’ve never been around a project that’s had such a unity of support and passion for what we’re doing.”

Being A Christian Takes Courage

By Chad McComas

Courage is a prominent theme in the Bible.

It took courage for Noah to build an Ark because God told him to. It took courage for Abraham to move because God told him to. It took courage for Jacob to face his brother Esau because God told him to. It took courage for Joseph to being faithful in slavery and prison because God expected him to. It took courage for Moses to go back to Egypt to rescue his people because God told him to. It took courage for Joshua to cross the Jordan and face Jericho. One of my favorite life verses is what God told him when he needed the courage to move ahead.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

It took courage for the disciples to follow Jesus. They had to leave family, friends, job, and community because Jesus asked them to.

It takes courage for us to follow Jesus today.

You may be facing a tough decision to follow Jesus and leave behind your former way of life with friends and perhaps family. It takes courage!

You may be facing a tough decision to quit your job because ethically you can’t do it any longer. What about the future? It takes courage!

You may be facing a health challenge that threatens your life. What about your faith? What about your future? It takes courage!

You may feel that God is leading you to start a new ministry. It may mean leaving behind friends or former beliefs. What is God doing? It takes courage!

You may be a teen who feels as if you are the only Christian at your school. It is hard to stand up for your beliefs. It takes courage!

You may sense God calling you to start investing your funds to build resources for your church or ministry. He wants you to double your giving this year. It takes courage!

I have found that when I step out in courage and face the risks God is placing in front of me I am rewarded far beyond what I expected. But, it takes courage to step out. It takes courage to climb th