Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas

Have you lost the joy of celebrating Christmas? Kirk Cameron and family dive headfirst into Christmas this season. KIRK CAMERON’S SAVING CHRISTMAS is a film that provides a Biblical basis for many of the traditions of Christmas and gives a refreshing perspective for the feasts, dancing, joy, and fun that surrounds the reason for this season. We live in a culture that wants to take away all faith aspects: not just the nonbelievers, but also some Christians. Kirk Cameron explains why you should take it all and put Christ back in Christmas. Saving Christmas is in theaters for a limited engagement beginning November 14 for two weeks only!

Christmas time is almost here (unless you are a retailer. They start a bit earlier each year), and each year it really does seem like there is a war on Christmas. Some people simply love Christmas and celebrate however they want and there are others who quietly ignore it all. The combatants, however, are those who are determined that no religious symbols be attached to Christmas, along with the Christians who warn of paganism and idolatry versus the militant Christians who angrily demand that you will say "Merry CHRISTmas"...or else! So, what position does Saving Christmas take?

I thought it was a fun, informative film that did a very good presentation of their point of view, but I could not embrace the film 100%. I'll start with the negatives, mostly technical. Sometimes the sound and lighting were not up to standard. There were also camera angles that I disliked, or moments of rushed movement to the point I even felt a bit dizzy for a second or two. Most of it was near the beginning, so I just felt it got off to a rough start. The story got a little too silly for me at times, but nothing major. A little eye-rolling on my part, but not enough to ruin the film.

However, there was also genuinely humorous moments that made me smile, and even laugh. The premise was a gathering of family and friends but with one person who rejected the commercialism and the pagan symbols connected with Christmas. Kirk gives a tie-in to Christianity with each objectionable issue that brought a special meaning to each. There was a section on the swaddling clothes Jesus wore in the manger that truly touched me. Actually, the movie is worth seeing for that alone. Technically, there were also some scenes (appeared to be CGI) that were amazing and made up for my earlier tech criticisms.

It is a fun film about a family embracing their faith and celebrating the birth of Jesus. While it was a bit cheesy at times, and it leaned more toward being a documentary, I honestly did like it. My son and his girlfriend were at the house the night I was watching it, and they enjoyed it. My son even mentioned someone he wished could see it because that family refuses to acknowledge Christmas. Do I think it will change the minds of those adamantly opposed to Christmas? Probably not. But, it did rekindle the spark of celebrating Christmas within me that has been dying over the last few years. So, if you need to jump start that feeling of joy and the true reason we celebrate, go see Saving Christmas while it is in theaters.

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  GIVEAWAY!! Leave a comment on the blog post letting me know what your favorite Christmas tradition is to be entered into this contest. The prize is a Saving Christmas movie poster, signed by Kirk Cameron, the Saving Christmas soundtrack cd, and car air fresheners that smell like Christmas trees! Deadline to enter is 11pm (CST) on Nov. 22, 2014.Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.” Open to US and Canada residents only.
  
  

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Follow @KirkCameron on Twitter
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Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas websiteFind A Theater

Iesodo - Joy dvd

JOY is a special re-imagining of the Nativity story. Let your heart take flight and tweet along to holiday carols and all-new songs! Festivities are in full swing as the flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky shares the incredible story of Iesodo's birth.

Unto Us A Dove Is Born: "Festivities are in full swing as the flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky shares the story of this amazing day, and how it changed their lives forever."

My Review: In time for Christmas season, a new cartoon, and one that celebrates the birth of Jesus. This has been my favorite of the Iesodo series (still have not seen "Believe"). It tells the story of the nativity on a level that younger children would understand, and also has hints of what life was like during the final days Jesus was on earth. It gives a good foundational base for children, but without making it seem like a sermon. Kids will love the bright colors and songs that they will soon be singing along with. I confess that "We Three Kings" was my favorite, largely because it reminded me of the Claymation Christmas version...but with wise owls. I recommend this as a great new addition for your kids to watch, so pick up a copy.

For those, like me, who don't like to start Christmas season until after Thanksgiving, this would be a fun video for the family to watch together after decorating the house and putting up your tree. What better way to start the season off right, but by reminding your kids of the true meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of the DVD from Edify Media to enable me to write a fair and honest review.

Iesodo website

Iesodo on Facebook

FULL SERIES: Iesodo (YAY-sa-doe) is a wise white dove whose name means "The Way of Jesus". He and his feathered friends bring your favorite New Testament stories to life in a whole new way.   Iesodo and his friends live in the Holy Land, in a beautiful Cypress Tree on the shores of a vast Lake (or as we know it, the Sea of Galilee). These birds are an unlikely group of friends, and though they have their differences, they have one thing in common: since they met Iesodo, their lives have never been the same. Now they’re out to spread his message of hope to the entire bird world!

Zaya Toonz, the animation company behind Iesodo, assembled a collaboration of animation experts with experience in both the children’s and Christian markets.  Directors for the series include Brian E. Ray whose credits consist of “Muppet Babies,” “My Little Pony Tales” and “Ed, Ed, and Eddy,” as well as Colin Brady, whose credits include “Toy Story,” “Toy Story 2” and “A Bug's Life.” Brady also served as the former animation supervisor for Pixar Animation Studios. Producer Eric S. Rollman, President of Rollman Entertainment, formerly served as President of Production for Fox Kids and Marvel, and writer/producer Rob Loos is an Emmy Nominee and writer/producer for “McGee and Me,” “Christmas Lamb,” “Kids 10 Commandments” and “Touched by an Angel.” The “Iesodo” series also features the voice of Erin Bethea (“Fireproof,” “Amazing Love”) as Maggie. For more information, visit http://www.iesodo.com.

About Capitol Christian Distribution: Capitol Christian Distribution is the market leader in Christian and Gospel music distribution, and also represents a diverse range of chart topping Christian films and books, reaching the US Christian specialty and general retail marketplace and physical and digital retailers in more than 50 countries around the world.  


*Except for my review, most of this is from the Iesodo press release. 

The War On Christmas

The War On Christmas, edited by Bodie Hodge.

Filled with family get-togethers, office parties, breaks from school, decorating the tree, and more, Christmas is a time of peace and love. So why has so much controversy clouded this sacred holiday? It has become ground zero in an ongoing culture war where Nativity scenes are mixed, Merry Christmas becomes Happy Holidays, and even the word "Christmas" is considered by some as offensive. Find the truth about Christmas and the Christian's response to a culture that seems to be declaring war. (Publisher's Description)

 My Review: Beautiful pictures, along with short chapters that cover a wide range of topics within the story of Christmas, and filled a lot of background and detail make this an interesting book for those who want much more clarity on what the Bible says. On the other hand, some of it was repetitive and could get a bit boring. Perhaps it is simply because I learned the story of Jesus from the Bible and have always realized that the songs, movies, cartoons, etc. are a creative retelling rather than a factual documentary. There were bits of info scattered among the chapters that I found interesting, but nothing that I found mind-boggling. I had also hoped it would delve a bit into the current issues over the religious and secular symbols associated with Christmas and why so many are determined to ban the mention of Christmas from the public arena. However, since this was a project from Answers In Genesis, it would be unfair to fault them for not putting an emphasis on that aspect. It was good book, but not great.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Handlebar. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

When Ashes Are All That Is Left

Courtesy: Pathlight Entertainment

A sleepy Texas town's nativity is burned to ashes by a former U.S. senator and the media swarms, starting a national debate; pitting the town, the senator and a minister's family in a fight ending in sacrifice.

Beyond the Farthest Star has a storyline that revolves around a nativity that was burned by an angry senator...leaving it in ashes, but there are more than the literal flames in this film. There are the flames of jealousy, mistrust, abuse, depression, loneliness, and rage that threaten to consume these multi-dimensional characters. Some are smoldering embers that threaten to deaden the emotions, but others shoot off sparks that reignite and cause fresh fires that threaten to consume and destroy.

Yet, sometimes fire is not meant to destroy. 1 Peter 1:7 tells us, "These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.". (NLT) Sometimes people are destroyed by the fires that rage within them, but there are times we go through other virtual fires in order to refine and strengthen us. As we are reminded in the film, God will "...give unto them beauty for ashes..." (Is. 61:3, KJV)

 This film touches on topics like

• Separation of Church and State
• Teen depression and Self Harm
• Abortion / Sanctity of Life
• Priorities of Life - Leaving a Legacy
• The Importance of Marriage Vows
• Fathers

A great idea is to buy DVDs as an outreach for those whose lives are affected by some of the issues above. There are teens feeling depressed or suicidal, people struggling with marriage issues, or men wanting to be a better father. Or, this is ideal for anyone who is letting their dreams die and need to know that there is hope to be found. You have heard that "A picture is worth a thousand words", so a movie will speak volumes!

• Like BTFS on Facebook 
• Beyond The Farthest Star on IMDb 
• Beyond The Farthest Star website 
• Follow @beyondmovie on Twitter 
• Subscribe to the BTFS YouTube Channel

BEYOND THE FARTHEST STAR is a tremendous film. Hope From The Heart calls it, “Dynamic! A great story of restoration and a gateway to address difficult issues and brokenness!" Richard Propes, The Independent Critic says, “ Inspired. It's refreshing to watch a film that so successfully infuses faith into the frequently harsh realities of life... without turning its faith into a greeting card sentimentality." And multi-Dove Award-winning artist Crystal Lewis said after watching with her teen daughter, "This film shows that there is hope, that restoration and redemption can come out of the darkness, and that beauty truly can be found among the ashes."  

Democratic Senator Burns Nativity - National Debate!

A DEMOCRATIC SENATOR DESTROYS A TOWN SQUARE’S NATIVITY AT CHRISTMAS. That is the opening segment of a new novel being released through Zondervan/HarperCollins by acclaimed authors, Bodie and Brock Thoene. It begins a national debate as the national news media and a civil liberties group descend upon the sleepy Texas town. The story is unfortunately genuine as it highlights the ongoing struggle with religious freedom in America.... Especially at this time of year. The novel is based on the controversial faith-based film, BEYOND THE FARTHEST STAR. The film releases this March in Dallas but the e-book will be available starting December 18th, with the novel following soon.

Stories similar to this are happening all over America NOW. As I read through several yesterday, I could not help but compare it to the events in BTFS. I believe this book calls attention to the attack of religion and the demise of Christmas as we know it!

In fact, currently there is an intense story in the little town square of Athens, Texas as the Wisconsin group, Freedom from Religion attacks this small town. Here is the Fox Dallas report- http://www.myfoxdfw.com/dpp/news/national-group-wants-courthouse-nativity-scene-removed-120711 <http://www.myfoxdfw.com/dpp/news/national-group-wants-courthouse-nativity-scene-removed-120711>
 
Athens is about 30 minutes from where the story in the novel and film take place, and it is interesting to see the actual events and compare them to the fictionalized ones. You can see the vision behind the story of BEYOND THE FARTHEST STAR and how the burning of the nativity inspired the story...



For further commentary on how truth and fiction are meeting in Texas, Bodie and Brock Thoene are available, as well as independent filmmakers Andrew Librizzi and Benjamin Dane.  The author’s nearest Fox Affiliate is Santa Barbara Channel 24 KKFX. The filmmaker’s is Dallas Fox KDFW Channel 4. To schedule an interview, or to gather additional info, please contact Ben Robinson of Robinson Creative Inc. at the following links:


286 Grand Ave. Suite 238
Southlake, TX 76092
p. 817.748.5057 X-101
f. 817.416.7833
w.RobinsonCreativeInc.com

Outdoor Nativity Set review

Recently I was given the opportunity to review an Outdoor Nativity Set. I wasn't sure how difficult it would be to put this together, but I can assure everyone that is was simple! Keep in mind, that I can't even put together a jigsaw puzzle that has more than 24 pieces (and that is a struggle! My brain in not wired for those things!). In less than 5 minutes, though, I had put together this beautiful Nativity set. I have a link to an instructional video, but was excited to do this on my own.

Last night, set against the backdrop of evergreens, with the snow flurries swirling about, I was able to enjoy this simple, but beautiful reminder of why I celebrate Christmas. I really wish the snowflakes had shown up in the photo. :)

This is made from marine grade plastic this is lightweight, but durable. That means it is also easy to move. Assembled it is: 46.5" Wide x 50" Tall x 23" Deep.  My family assembled it on the porch, due to the rain, but took it apart so I could see for myself how easy it is to assemble and maneuver to the best location to showcase my new nativity. So, I can assure you that when it is time to put it away after Christmas, it is very easy to disassemble and store neatly until needed the next year. There is no worrying about finding a space for bulky figures.


For your convenience, here is the website address page links:
Outdoor Nativity Sets website
Outdoor Nativity Sets on Pinterest
Outdoor Nativity Sets on Facebook
Follow @OutdoorNativity

Not only can you order the basic set, but there are additional pieces also available for purchase. They have angels, shepherds, wisemen, a camel, a donkey, and a calf. Check out their page and get started on YOUR collection.

Company Info:

Launched in 2010, Outdoor Nativity Sets builds outdoor holiday decor products that can be shipped UPS and broken down for easy storage for the rest of the year. We offer a high quality AMERICAN MADE product at an affordable price.

	401 Capitol Court, Ocoee, FL 34761
	855-553-4946 ***********************************************************************************************

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products orservices mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

UPDATE: Dec. 21,2014
This is the 4th year my church has used this display and it still looks fantastic.

Andrew Prine

 Andrew Prine is cast in Beyond The Farthest Star as Senator John Cutter. Now that he is no longer an active member of the Senate, he is refurbishing the sleepy town of Leonard, Texas for his wife. Pledging to restore it's crumbling main street, the powerful former US Senator knew he had the little town of Leonard in his grasp.  However, despite his outward appearance as a public servant, there is a dark side to the senator. In a pivotal scene that is sure to spark conversation and conflict, Senator Cutter is the one responsible for burning the Nativity!







It will be very interesting to see how this is played out on the screen! He isn't about to allow some TV evangelist want-to-be to draw away the citizens or his wife with empty promises of faith. He was willing to do anything it takes to accomplish his goal. What IS the secret he knows that can destroy the Wells family?

Andrew Prine as Senator John Cutter

Andrew Prine has such an illustrious, enduring acting career on stage and in movies and television that I honestly could not decide which of his roles to list. He has over 173 roles listed in his credits and the list of film legends he has worked with is incredible! Mr. Prine is definitely a man of many talents and I am eagerly anticipating to see his performance as Senator Cutter.

To learn more about Andrew Prine, go to the following links:

Andrew Prine  Official Website
Andrew Prine on IMDb
Andrew Prine on Facebook

Remember to LIKE his upcoming film Beyond the Farthest Star on Facebook

 **************************************************************

• Reserve your Tickets on Seatzy 
• What Is Seatzy?
• Like BTFS on Facebook 
• Beyond The Farthest Star on IMDb 
• Beyond The Farthest Star website 
• Follow @beyondmovie on Twitter 
• Subscribe to the BTFS YouTube Channel
• View the BTFS trailer here.

 

 

             

Christmas Controversy

         Although I live in an area where Christmas and public displays featuring Christian symbols are not only accepted, but usually expected, each year there seems be more more controversy surrounding the "offensiveness" of Christmas. Everyone who is reading this knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am of the Christian faith. If you aren't aware, I hope to make it more clear in the future. My point of view is shaped by my faith in Jesus Christ and my unwavering belief in the Bible. So, while I try to be open-minded and willing to listen to others, bottom line for me is trying to be the person I believe Jesus would have me to be. I am often a failure, but it is my goal.

The following link is to a news story I recently watched about Christmas trees causing psychological harm to non-believers. My first response was, "What?!?" Click on here for God Discussion. Read the article and watch the video for yourself. I really would like to hear the opinions of others. I guess I have never thought about a Christmas tree being a Christian symbol. Personally, I don't have a tree up this year, but I am going to be home alone. I think they are beautiful and enjoy looking at them, especially at night with only the lights on the tree glowing. But the tree itself does not make me think any more or less about Jesus. Actually it seems to be one of the less controversial aspects of Christmas. Even non-believers seem to have no problem with a decorated tree...or so I thought. I am also including a link to an article about Biblical, pagan, and secular symbolism concerning Christmas Trees. This link will also lead you to other articles surrounding Christmas symbols and beliefs.

Separation of church and state is an issue that continues to be debated. One of the scenes in the upcoming film from Pathlight Entertainment, Beyond The Farthest Star , is the burning of a nativity by a US Senator. Watch writer/director Andrew Librizzi talk about the film's  burning the Nativity scene.





Some have told me that they find that such a scene in a faith-based film to be offensive. Most change their minds and agree that the dramatic statement can and will lead to discussion. I think that keeping things hidden in the dark or refusing to acknowledge them are wrong. Some within the church have become so afraid of offending either fellow believers or non-believers that we timidly huddle together in silence. I don't know how this scene will eventually play out on screen, but I applaud the decision to address the matter. Personally, I have seen many things on public property that I found to be offensive, but none that tempted me to commit arson. But, I digress, and the point I am hoping to make is that the very name Christmas seems to shout that it commemorates Christ.

I don't see Hanukkah, Kwanza, Festivus, or whatever winter holiday anyone else chooses to celebrate being protested. It would never cross my mind to do so, nor do I protest those who prefer to focus on Santa, reindeer, & presents. Actually the excessive gifts and materialism does bother me, but I don't begrudge people celebrating however they want. The hype of the season makes me feel more isolated and left out than any particular symbol that may be publicly displayed. It is all I can do to keep my mouth shut when I hear, what to me is the bizarre question of, "Are you ready for Christmas?" I never know how to answer.

I realize that it is extremely doubtful that Jesus was born this time of year, but that is a side issue for me. I celebrate the fact that God came to earth as a man to sacrifice Himself in atonement for my sins every day. However, December 25th is when those who have placed their faith and trust in Him choose to celebrate His birth. Am I simply not acknowledging protests of other faiths? Again, the area I live in is not very culturally diverse. Baptist vs Methodists is to be more likely than Christian vs (fill in the blank). I am not one of those who goes ballistic if you choose to wish me a Happy Holiday rather than a Merry Christmas. I don't care if you refuse to say anything to me. However, I do object to unfairly targeting symbols of the Christian faith during the time chosen (for whatever reason) to celebrate the birth of our Messiah. If you don't believe, just don't celebrate it......do not tell me that I can't because you disagree with my belief.