Jan 18, 2006
Jan 5, 2006
College Football...gotta love it!
What a great bowl season we had this year. Great games and an awesome National Championship game.
The Ducks performance was the only downer. We should have won. We played poorly and sadly I have to point to the coaching staff and their decisions.
As for the rest of the top games, wow, Ohio State really impressed me in the Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame, the Buckeyes are impressive. The Sugar Bowl, it looked like after the end of the first half that they would both score 60 points, amazing offenses. It was a fun first half of football. Of course they slowed down in the second half and it was a battle to the end.
All of the BCS bowls were battles, the Orange Bowl, wow! Three overtimes! The missed field goals, the intensity was great, I was sure glad Kevin Kelly came through with his third chance to win the game. I am not sure he would have lived to old age if he would have missed another. Paterno and Bowden are the two winningest coaches in D-I football battling it out for over 4 hours (79 years old and 76 years old respectively). It was cool to watch.
Then there came the Rose Bowl for the National Championship. I was saying before the game, this is the most significant football game of the century. Texas and USC, all the stories to be told, wow. Texas ranked number two all season, had an amazing year, routing most all of the teams they came up against. After the game commentators were asking if Vince Young (runner-up Heisman candidate) might be the best quarterback ever! He is amazing, he ran for 200 yards and He threw for 267 yards, in the Rose Bowl for the National Championship! This Young’s second year in a row winning the Rose Bowl, his combined yardage and amazing …. 839 yards in two Rose Bowls.
"That," USC coach Pete Carroll said, "is an extraordinary football player."
"Vince is truly one of the great competitors to ever play college football," coach Mack Brown said Wednesday night. "He has got a tremendous amount of confidence. He just exudes that confidence."
And the USC Trojans … Matt Leinart comes back passing up tens of millions of dollars this year to go for his 3rd National Championship in a row. He was the Heisman winner in 2004, the top player in the whole nation. This year Reggie Bush, running back for USC, wins the Heisman and he deserved it he is like no other, he runs by defensive players like they are 7th grade girls. Two Heisman winners on one team playing for their 3rd National Championship, guarding a 34 game winning streak, they had not lost since 2003!
Now the game, wow, they battle to the final seconds. There was no way to know the final outcome until the buzzer rang. Intense. Wow. That was fun.
The Ducks performance was the only downer. We should have won. We played poorly and sadly I have to point to the coaching staff and their decisions.
As for the rest of the top games, wow, Ohio State really impressed me in the Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame, the Buckeyes are impressive. The Sugar Bowl, it looked like after the end of the first half that they would both score 60 points, amazing offenses. It was a fun first half of football. Of course they slowed down in the second half and it was a battle to the end.
All of the BCS bowls were battles, the Orange Bowl, wow! Three overtimes! The missed field goals, the intensity was great, I was sure glad Kevin Kelly came through with his third chance to win the game. I am not sure he would have lived to old age if he would have missed another. Paterno and Bowden are the two winningest coaches in D-I football battling it out for over 4 hours (79 years old and 76 years old respectively). It was cool to watch.
Then there came the Rose Bowl for the National Championship. I was saying before the game, this is the most significant football game of the century. Texas and USC, all the stories to be told, wow. Texas ranked number two all season, had an amazing year, routing most all of the teams they came up against. After the game commentators were asking if Vince Young (runner-up Heisman candidate) might be the best quarterback ever! He is amazing, he ran for 200 yards and He threw for 267 yards, in the Rose Bowl for the National Championship! This Young’s second year in a row winning the Rose Bowl, his combined yardage and amazing …. 839 yards in two Rose Bowls.
"That," USC coach Pete Carroll said, "is an extraordinary football player."
"Vince is truly one of the great competitors to ever play college football," coach Mack Brown said Wednesday night. "He has got a tremendous amount of confidence. He just exudes that confidence."
And the USC Trojans … Matt Leinart comes back passing up tens of millions of dollars this year to go for his 3rd National Championship in a row. He was the Heisman winner in 2004, the top player in the whole nation. This year Reggie Bush, running back for USC, wins the Heisman and he deserved it he is like no other, he runs by defensive players like they are 7th grade girls. Two Heisman winners on one team playing for their 3rd National Championship, guarding a 34 game winning streak, they had not lost since 2003!
Now the game, wow, they battle to the final seconds. There was no way to know the final outcome until the buzzer rang. Intense. Wow. That was fun.
Dec 16, 2005
Black History Month?
I love it when guys like Freeman and Cosby tell it like it is. Two of my favorite actors (well Cosby plays himself most of the time) call racism "racism" and it is those who cry about it who are promoting it the most.
Freeman criticizes black history month
NEW YORK (AP) — Morgan Freeman says the concept of a month dedicated to black history is "ridiculous." "You're going to relegate my history to a month?" the 68-year-old actor says in an interview on CBS' 60 Minutes to air Sunday (7 p.m. ET). "I don't want a black history month. Black history is American history."
Morgan Freeman notes there is no "white history month," and says the only way to get rid of racism is to "stop talking about it."
60 Minutes via AP
Black History Month has roots in historian Carter G. Woodson's Negro History Week, which he designated in 1926 as the second week in February to mark the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
Woodson said he hoped the week could one day be eliminated — when black history would become fundamental to American history.
Freeman notes there is no "white history month," and says the only way to get rid of racism is to "stop talking about it."
The actor says he believes the labels "black" and "white" are an obstacle to beating racism.
"I am going to stop calling you a white man and I'm going to ask you to stop calling me a black man," Freeman says.
Freeman received Oscar nominations for his roles in 1987's Street Smart, 1989's Driving Miss Daisy and 1994's The Shawshank Redemption. He finally won earlier this year for Million Dollar Baby.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Find this article at:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2005-12-15-freeman-racism_x.htm?csp=27&POE=click-refer
Freeman criticizes black history month
NEW YORK (AP) — Morgan Freeman says the concept of a month dedicated to black history is "ridiculous." "You're going to relegate my history to a month?" the 68-year-old actor says in an interview on CBS' 60 Minutes to air Sunday (7 p.m. ET). "I don't want a black history month. Black history is American history."
Morgan Freeman notes there is no "white history month," and says the only way to get rid of racism is to "stop talking about it."
60 Minutes via AP
Black History Month has roots in historian Carter G. Woodson's Negro History Week, which he designated in 1926 as the second week in February to mark the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
Woodson said he hoped the week could one day be eliminated — when black history would become fundamental to American history.
Freeman notes there is no "white history month," and says the only way to get rid of racism is to "stop talking about it."
The actor says he believes the labels "black" and "white" are an obstacle to beating racism.
"I am going to stop calling you a white man and I'm going to ask you to stop calling me a black man," Freeman says.
Freeman received Oscar nominations for his roles in 1987's Street Smart, 1989's Driving Miss Daisy and 1994's The Shawshank Redemption. He finally won earlier this year for Million Dollar Baby.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Find this article at:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2005-12-15-freeman-racism_x.htm?csp=27&POE=click-refer
Dec 1, 2005
Ode to the Blue Bike
17 years of partnership
UO registration sticker
New lights
Scratched paint
Broken shifter leaver
Many miles between us
Rack with one blue pannier
Lock safely tucked in the pannier
Warn out tires
Customized seat with no cover
Gas saver and Bronco saver
Leg exercise and lung exercise
21 gears of which only a few were used
Replaced rims, tires, bars, stem, and seat
What will I hang the other pannier on?
I will miss you blue bike. Stolen 11/30/05
UO registration sticker
New lights
Scratched paint
Broken shifter leaver
Many miles between us
Rack with one blue pannier
Lock safely tucked in the pannier
Warn out tires
Customized seat with no cover
Gas saver and Bronco saver
Leg exercise and lung exercise
21 gears of which only a few were used
Replaced rims, tires, bars, stem, and seat
What will I hang the other pannier on?
I will miss you blue bike. Stolen 11/30/05
Nov 21, 2005
Already in heaven?
Tailgater discussion.
Before the big game...Damion and I (and Jessica Hyman's mom, Pat) were discusing the following verse and concepts surrounding the verse, what do you think?
Eph 2.6
"...[He] made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ..."
Note that this is speaking of those who have received God's grace through Christ and that it is in past tense. "Seated us with Him in the heavenely places."
So are our spirits already in heaven?
Where is heaven?
What is Paul's point?
Before the big game...Damion and I (and Jessica Hyman's mom, Pat) were discusing the following verse and concepts surrounding the verse, what do you think?
Eph 2.6
"...[He] made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ..."
Note that this is speaking of those who have received God's grace through Christ and that it is in past tense. "Seated us with Him in the heavenely places."
So are our spirits already in heaven?
Where is heaven?
What is Paul's point?
Nov 14, 2005
POLL: How much ($$) are you wearing?
Respond to the poll by adding up the amount all the clothes you are wearing cost.
How much money are you wearing? Put what ever things you are wearing, the brand and the cost of them. DONT FORGET SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, BRAS (for girls) AND SHOES! The add all the money up and find out how much your outfit costs. For gift items estimate what the cost was.
Examples:
Alex
$50 Nike golf Turtleneck
$25 Hollister Polo
$10 Union Bay T-Shirt
$2 Boxers from Marshalls
$25 Anchor Blue Jeans
$5 Official NBA ankle socks
$40 Puma's
TOTAL: $147
Andi
Abercrombie Vest: 120$
Hollister Shirt: 22$
Hollister wife beater: 15$
Abercrombie Jeans: 80$
V.S. bra: 35$
Nordstroms undies: 10$
Kswiss tennies: 70$
Socks: 3$
TOTAL: $355.00
How much money are you wearing? Put what ever things you are wearing, the brand and the cost of them. DONT FORGET SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, BRAS (for girls) AND SHOES! The add all the money up and find out how much your outfit costs. For gift items estimate what the cost was.
Examples:
Alex
$50 Nike golf Turtleneck
$25 Hollister Polo
$10 Union Bay T-Shirt
$2 Boxers from Marshalls
$25 Anchor Blue Jeans
$5 Official NBA ankle socks
$40 Puma's
TOTAL: $147
Andi
Abercrombie Vest: 120$
Hollister Shirt: 22$
Hollister wife beater: 15$
Abercrombie Jeans: 80$
V.S. bra: 35$
Nordstroms undies: 10$
Kswiss tennies: 70$
Socks: 3$
TOTAL: $355.00
Nov 3, 2005
Lori Gant's blog
My wife has given me permission to let you all know about her blog. It is good. Great fun with pictures.
www.l2gant.blogspot.com
www.l2gant.blogspot.com
Elk Hunting
As you might have heard…no elk were found. I had a great time in the mountains of Eastern Oregon with family and friends…and we saw literally hundreds of deer and two herds of wild horses.
Every year I go elk hunting (9 of the last 10 yrs) with my step-dad and his hunting partner/best friend and their boys. They both have sons named Mike and Mark who are almost the same ages. Plus, my brother Curtis and sometimes others such as my step-brother-in-law (my step-sister’s husband) also go. They are a great group of guys … we always have a good time.
We leave Portland early Monday morning driving 4-5 hours. We stop and have breakfast at some diner along the way and then set up camp when we arrive. Our tent is approx 16’ X 36’, it is an old army tent with a wood stove in it and other modern conveniences (gas stove, refrigerator, and generator to run lights and one sleep apnea machine). We often will spend a few hours cutting wood for fire wood that first day, as well. This year we brought wood.
Tuesday we scout the area for a few hours and then relax and enjoy God’s creation.
Wednesday is opening day…we get up between 4:30 and 5:30 eat some breakfast and then head out in search of the big game. We will usually stay out until dark on opening day.
Thursday – Saturday is much the same as Wednesday; however bad weather and lack of elk sign might cause the troops to shorten the day at both ends. Plus, lunch breaks become more frequent as the week progresses.
If no elk sign is found early in the week we will try other areas. This year we drove an hour south from our tent site two days to hunt the area between Cougar and Timber mountains. This was a nice area with the added benefit of having wild horses for us to enjoy observing. But no elk.
Sunday we clean up camp, pack up the tent and other gear into the pickups, have a communion service, and then shoot our guns at targets, before heading back to Portland.
Every year I go elk hunting (9 of the last 10 yrs) with my step-dad and his hunting partner/best friend and their boys. They both have sons named Mike and Mark who are almost the same ages. Plus, my brother Curtis and sometimes others such as my step-brother-in-law (my step-sister’s husband) also go. They are a great group of guys … we always have a good time.
We leave Portland early Monday morning driving 4-5 hours. We stop and have breakfast at some diner along the way and then set up camp when we arrive. Our tent is approx 16’ X 36’, it is an old army tent with a wood stove in it and other modern conveniences (gas stove, refrigerator, and generator to run lights and one sleep apnea machine). We often will spend a few hours cutting wood for fire wood that first day, as well. This year we brought wood.
Tuesday we scout the area for a few hours and then relax and enjoy God’s creation.
Wednesday is opening day…we get up between 4:30 and 5:30 eat some breakfast and then head out in search of the big game. We will usually stay out until dark on opening day.
Thursday – Saturday is much the same as Wednesday; however bad weather and lack of elk sign might cause the troops to shorten the day at both ends. Plus, lunch breaks become more frequent as the week progresses.
If no elk sign is found early in the week we will try other areas. This year we drove an hour south from our tent site two days to hunt the area between Cougar and Timber mountains. This was a nice area with the added benefit of having wild horses for us to enjoy observing. But no elk.
Sunday we clean up camp, pack up the tent and other gear into the pickups, have a communion service, and then shoot our guns at targets, before heading back to Portland.
Duck football
Its been a week and a half. Fans have gone through the 5 stages of the grieving process: denial, anger, depression, bargaining, and acceptance.
It was hard to accept that Clemens season was over. I feel bad for the guy. Ranked 5th in the nation as a quarterback, half way through the season, breaking UO records, right and left and was on the edge of some of the biggest records. He was after these records at this Oregon which has seen some “great” quarterbacks. What is going to happen in the draft? How will he fair? It is hard to say. That injury might have cost him millions $$$.
There are bright spots… other teammates are making great plays. Brett Haberly is a great story, walk-on junior from Cottage Grove who had seven tackles, including three for losses and one sack. Anthony Trucks, Patrick Chung, and Justin Phinisee also are playing great on defense.
Offense could be great, I believe Dennis Dixon has the athletic ability to lead this team to greatness. Two weeks to prepare was a blessing. Let’s hope he works well with D. Williams, and the running backs. Speaking of the running backs, it would be nice if we could exploit all the talent we have there too.
The 23rd-ranked (AP) California Golden Bears (21st, USA Today) come to Autzen Stadium to face No. 15 (AP) Oregon (13th, USA Today) in a regionally televised game on ABC, beginning at 12:36 p.m. Both teams are coming off a bye week as the Ducks are looking to win their fifth-straight game for the first time since 2002, while the Bears look for their second straight victory.
It was hard to accept that Clemens season was over. I feel bad for the guy. Ranked 5th in the nation as a quarterback, half way through the season, breaking UO records, right and left and was on the edge of some of the biggest records. He was after these records at this Oregon which has seen some “great” quarterbacks. What is going to happen in the draft? How will he fair? It is hard to say. That injury might have cost him millions $$$.
There are bright spots… other teammates are making great plays. Brett Haberly is a great story, walk-on junior from Cottage Grove who had seven tackles, including three for losses and one sack. Anthony Trucks, Patrick Chung, and Justin Phinisee also are playing great on defense.
Offense could be great, I believe Dennis Dixon has the athletic ability to lead this team to greatness. Two weeks to prepare was a blessing. Let’s hope he works well with D. Williams, and the running backs. Speaking of the running backs, it would be nice if we could exploit all the talent we have there too.
The 23rd-ranked (AP) California Golden Bears (21st, USA Today) come to Autzen Stadium to face No. 15 (AP) Oregon (13th, USA Today) in a regionally televised game on ABC, beginning at 12:36 p.m. Both teams are coming off a bye week as the Ducks are looking to win their fifth-straight game for the first time since 2002, while the Bears look for their second straight victory.
Oct 11, 2005
Youth Leaders Retreat south of Mexico City
The following is a portion of a e-newsletter I recieved from the Petersons, missionaries from our church:
Saul is one of the finest young Christian men we know. He entered the military to be able to study medicine and eventually use that for the Lord. About 6 months ago he felt convicted to leave the military and prepare himself for full-time Christian service. Saul shared that when he was in the military they would sleep with their weapon, learn how to take it apart and assemble it in the dark and carry it with them at all times. They knew it inside and out. He said for the next month he wants to do the same with his spiritual weapon (the Bible). He wants to spend as much time in the Word as he can and carry it with him wherever he goes, sleep with it, etc. "Why should we know a physical weapon better than our spiritual weapon?"
Please pray for these youth who attended [the Youth Leaders Retreat]. They have the potential to change the youth of Mexico and God believes in them just like he does in you and I.
TZOALLI'S BIRTHDAY
One of those who attended the retreat is Tzoalli who celebrated her 30th birthday a couple of weeks ago. Tzoalli works for Johnson & Co. here in Mexico and has a heart for evangelism. She has a sister who is a Christian but her brother and father are not. She has led several of her friends to the Lord and is working on others. This year she decided to give a birthday brunch for herself. But she didn't want it to be just a regular birthday party but an evangelistic one. So she asked some friends of hers who have a huge backyard if she could use it for the event. She invited half Christian friends and the other half non-Christian friends and family that she has been witnessing to. She asked all of her non-Christian friends ahead of time to be specifically praying for those who would be coming. She had a beautiful brunch catered with little place cards with scriptures on them. She had some friends sing some Christian music, she shared a testimony of what Christ had done in her life and she had Rodney share a short devotional thought.
It was a meaningful time and those who were Christians had a great opportunity to get to know those who weren't and share in a casual environment. Please pray for Tzoalli and her continued witness to her friends and family that she will see the fruit of her efforts.
Below are two pictures from the retreat plus a picture of Tzoalli sharing at her birthday brunch.
Your Partners in Ministry,
Rodney and Linda Peterson
Saul is one of the finest young Christian men we know. He entered the military to be able to study medicine and eventually use that for the Lord. About 6 months ago he felt convicted to leave the military and prepare himself for full-time Christian service. Saul shared that when he was in the military they would sleep with their weapon, learn how to take it apart and assemble it in the dark and carry it with them at all times. They knew it inside and out. He said for the next month he wants to do the same with his spiritual weapon (the Bible). He wants to spend as much time in the Word as he can and carry it with him wherever he goes, sleep with it, etc. "Why should we know a physical weapon better than our spiritual weapon?"
Please pray for these youth who attended [the Youth Leaders Retreat]. They have the potential to change the youth of Mexico and God believes in them just like he does in you and I.
TZOALLI'S BIRTHDAY
One of those who attended the retreat is Tzoalli who celebrated her 30th birthday a couple of weeks ago. Tzoalli works for Johnson & Co. here in Mexico and has a heart for evangelism. She has a sister who is a Christian but her brother and father are not. She has led several of her friends to the Lord and is working on others. This year she decided to give a birthday brunch for herself. But she didn't want it to be just a regular birthday party but an evangelistic one. So she asked some friends of hers who have a huge backyard if she could use it for the event. She invited half Christian friends and the other half non-Christian friends and family that she has been witnessing to. She asked all of her non-Christian friends ahead of time to be specifically praying for those who would be coming. She had a beautiful brunch catered with little place cards with scriptures on them. She had some friends sing some Christian music, she shared a testimony of what Christ had done in her life and she had Rodney share a short devotional thought.
It was a meaningful time and those who were Christians had a great opportunity to get to know those who weren't and share in a casual environment. Please pray for Tzoalli and her continued witness to her friends and family that she will see the fruit of her efforts.
Below are two pictures from the retreat plus a picture of Tzoalli sharing at her birthday brunch.
Your Partners in Ministry,
Rodney and Linda Peterson
Abigail Hope was born on October 10, 2005 around 2:15pm
Abigail Hope was born on October 10, 2005 around 2:15pm to Aaron and Heidi Earlywine.
For pics: http://earlywinefamily.blogspot.com
For pics: http://earlywinefamily.blogspot.com
Walden Media talks Narnia, C.S. Lewis
The following is an article about the upcoming Narnia movie:
Walden Media talks Narnia, C.S. Lewis
14 Sep 2005 by Paul Martin
Contributing sources: BPnews
Christians tend to think of Hollywood as a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah inhabited by the living dead. Indeed, evidence would indicate that the Sodom and Gomorrah part is pretty accurate. But its citizenry consists of all kinds, including those who desire to create family friendly films and those who even proclaim a relationship with the Almighty.
One such man is Micheal Flaherty, who, along with college friend Cary Granat, formed Walden Media ("Because of Winn Dixie"; "I Am David") six years ago. Their purpose was to make great films from celebrated literature.
(Actually, Walden Media is located in Boston, but then, there really is no Hollywood nucleus. The populous of the entertainment community resides throughout the world.)
Forming the film production company was a challenge, one not taken lightly by the company’s founders.
“We want to be the next great trusted brand for families, particularly for teachers, libraries and parents," Flaherty says. "And we have to deliver on our mission to use the film and the book to make learning more exciting for kids."
The Walden Media CEOs now face their greatest challenge and very likely their most rewarding contribution to the film world -- the making of "The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe."
Based on the best-selling children’s book by C.S. Lewis, the story concerns four children who discover a magical wardrobe that transports them into the realm of Narnia, a land inhabited by talking animals and many a life lesson. There, the children join forces with the courageous lion, Aslan, to defeat the evil forces of the White Witch.
“We go to a lot of teacher conferences, library conferences, curriculum conferences," Flaherty says. "That’s an opportunity for us to ask teachers and librarians what books their students are reading. And what books they want to see made into movies. The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe has always been at the top of the list.”
A step up from most children’s fables, the book and the film are full of Christian analogies and symbolism. What’s more, many churchgoers find that the story serves to open a dialogue between parent and child concerning the sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf.
Asked if this religious kinship raised eyebrows at Disney, Flaherty says, “No, no one ever separated out themes or characters from the book anytime we had a discussion about it. Everyone embraced it as a great story.”
With Disney embracing the Christian philosophy of C. S. Lewis, surely that means a filmmatic makeover.
“Well first, the film is the book, pure and simple,” Flaherty says. “So any themes in the book are there in the film. For me, the main themes are family and forgiveness. Those are the two great themes. I especially pay attention to them now that I have three children. What’s unbelievable is the friendships between the brothers and sisters in the story. And of course, the theme of forgiveness is beautifully incorporated.”
“There are a couple of educational guides on the site (Waldon.com) that parents can work on with their kids. Basically, it details how we brought the book to life. It also goes into some history behind The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe and its author.”
If Wardrobe fits moviegoers, will Walden Media embrace other projects by the author?
“I’d love to," Flaherty said. "One of our first projects was The Question of God, a documentary that examines the religious debate between Sigmund Freud, a life-long critic of religion, and C.S. Lewis, who became America’s most influential proponent of faith based on reason. Screwtape Letters is one of my favorite books and Mere Christianity was one of the most influential books in my life."
Walden Media talks Narnia, C.S. Lewis
14 Sep 2005 by Paul Martin
Contributing sources: BPnews
Christians tend to think of Hollywood as a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah inhabited by the living dead. Indeed, evidence would indicate that the Sodom and Gomorrah part is pretty accurate. But its citizenry consists of all kinds, including those who desire to create family friendly films and those who even proclaim a relationship with the Almighty.
One such man is Micheal Flaherty, who, along with college friend Cary Granat, formed Walden Media ("Because of Winn Dixie"; "I Am David") six years ago. Their purpose was to make great films from celebrated literature.
(Actually, Walden Media is located in Boston, but then, there really is no Hollywood nucleus. The populous of the entertainment community resides throughout the world.)
Forming the film production company was a challenge, one not taken lightly by the company’s founders.
“We want to be the next great trusted brand for families, particularly for teachers, libraries and parents," Flaherty says. "And we have to deliver on our mission to use the film and the book to make learning more exciting for kids."
The Walden Media CEOs now face their greatest challenge and very likely their most rewarding contribution to the film world -- the making of "The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe."
Based on the best-selling children’s book by C.S. Lewis, the story concerns four children who discover a magical wardrobe that transports them into the realm of Narnia, a land inhabited by talking animals and many a life lesson. There, the children join forces with the courageous lion, Aslan, to defeat the evil forces of the White Witch.
“We go to a lot of teacher conferences, library conferences, curriculum conferences," Flaherty says. "That’s an opportunity for us to ask teachers and librarians what books their students are reading. And what books they want to see made into movies. The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe has always been at the top of the list.”
A step up from most children’s fables, the book and the film are full of Christian analogies and symbolism. What’s more, many churchgoers find that the story serves to open a dialogue between parent and child concerning the sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf.
Asked if this religious kinship raised eyebrows at Disney, Flaherty says, “No, no one ever separated out themes or characters from the book anytime we had a discussion about it. Everyone embraced it as a great story.”
With Disney embracing the Christian philosophy of C. S. Lewis, surely that means a filmmatic makeover.
“Well first, the film is the book, pure and simple,” Flaherty says. “So any themes in the book are there in the film. For me, the main themes are family and forgiveness. Those are the two great themes. I especially pay attention to them now that I have three children. What’s unbelievable is the friendships between the brothers and sisters in the story. And of course, the theme of forgiveness is beautifully incorporated.”
“There are a couple of educational guides on the site (Waldon.com) that parents can work on with their kids. Basically, it details how we brought the book to life. It also goes into some history behind The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe and its author.”
If Wardrobe fits moviegoers, will Walden Media embrace other projects by the author?
“I’d love to," Flaherty said. "One of our first projects was The Question of God, a documentary that examines the religious debate between Sigmund Freud, a life-long critic of religion, and C.S. Lewis, who became America’s most influential proponent of faith based on reason. Screwtape Letters is one of my favorite books and Mere Christianity was one of the most influential books in my life."
Oct 6, 2005
Bridges of Reconciliation
Last night at Middle School Youth Group we talked about building bridges of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5 says we have been reconciled through Christ and that we are to be Ministers of Reconciliation.
The following story illustrates how Jesus builds bridges of reconciliation between people.
There were two brothers. Their father had a large farm and when he became too old to work, he called his sons to him. "I am too old to work anymore," he said. "I will divide my farm in half and give each of you one half. I know that you will always work together and will be good friends."
When the brothers first started farming on their adjoining farms, they were the best of friends and would share everything together. For years, they helped each other work the farms and even loaned each other equipment.
Then, one day there was an argument between the two brothers and they stopped speaking to one another. Things got so bad that one of the brothers took a bulldozer and dug a trench between the two farms so that a creek could run between them, creating a clear boundary.
For many years, not a word was spoken between them.
One day, one of the brothers was at his house when a carpenter came to his door and said, “I would like to do some work. Do you have any work that I can do?” The brother thought for a moment and then replied, “See that big pile of lumber over there by my barn? I want you to build an eight foot high fence out of it so I don’t have to look at my brother’s farm or even see his face anymore! I’m going into town and I’ll be back this evening.” The carpenter said he understood and would do his best.
When he came back that evening, he was shocked to see that the carpenter had not followed his instructions. Instead of building a high fence there, he had built a bridge over the stream. The man walked down to take a look at the bridge, and as he did, his brother walked toward him from the other side. His brother said, “After all the terrible things I’ve done to you over the years, I can't believe that you would build a bridge and welcome me back.” He reached out to his brother and gave him a big hug.
As the brothers had a happy reunion, the carpenter turned to go. “Wait,” the farmer said, “I have other jobs for you.” “No thanks,” said the carpenter as he hoisted his toolbox to his shoulder, “I have other bridges to build.”
Sometimes you and I have a disagreement with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When that happens, we often build a fence between ourselves and them. We stop talking to them. We don't want to see them. We don't want to be around them. That isn't what Jesus wants us to do. Instead of fences, he wants us to build a bridge of love between us.
Dear Father, we know it is your desire for us to live together in peace and harmony. Help us to love one another. Amen.
The following story illustrates how Jesus builds bridges of reconciliation between people.
There were two brothers. Their father had a large farm and when he became too old to work, he called his sons to him. "I am too old to work anymore," he said. "I will divide my farm in half and give each of you one half. I know that you will always work together and will be good friends."
When the brothers first started farming on their adjoining farms, they were the best of friends and would share everything together. For years, they helped each other work the farms and even loaned each other equipment.
Then, one day there was an argument between the two brothers and they stopped speaking to one another. Things got so bad that one of the brothers took a bulldozer and dug a trench between the two farms so that a creek could run between them, creating a clear boundary.
For many years, not a word was spoken between them.
One day, one of the brothers was at his house when a carpenter came to his door and said, “I would like to do some work. Do you have any work that I can do?” The brother thought for a moment and then replied, “See that big pile of lumber over there by my barn? I want you to build an eight foot high fence out of it so I don’t have to look at my brother’s farm or even see his face anymore! I’m going into town and I’ll be back this evening.” The carpenter said he understood and would do his best.
When he came back that evening, he was shocked to see that the carpenter had not followed his instructions. Instead of building a high fence there, he had built a bridge over the stream. The man walked down to take a look at the bridge, and as he did, his brother walked toward him from the other side. His brother said, “After all the terrible things I’ve done to you over the years, I can't believe that you would build a bridge and welcome me back.” He reached out to his brother and gave him a big hug.
As the brothers had a happy reunion, the carpenter turned to go. “Wait,” the farmer said, “I have other jobs for you.” “No thanks,” said the carpenter as he hoisted his toolbox to his shoulder, “I have other bridges to build.”
Sometimes you and I have a disagreement with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When that happens, we often build a fence between ourselves and them. We stop talking to them. We don't want to see them. We don't want to be around them. That isn't what Jesus wants us to do. Instead of fences, he wants us to build a bridge of love between us.
Dear Father, we know it is your desire for us to live together in peace and harmony. Help us to love one another. Amen.
Oct 3, 2005
Saved - the movie
Have you seen the movie "Saved"? I have read some reviews of it and am interested in seein it when it comes out on DVD.
Below is a review from www.theooze.com
LINK:http://www.theooze.com/articles/article.cfm?id=939
SAVED
by Adam Beach
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As an extremely sardonic and satirical critique of Modern Christian pop culture, the movie Saved has been largely scorned and ruthlessly ridiculed in Evangelical sectors for its merciless look into the shallow world of the modern evangelical movement. Yet, some Christians have reacted to the movie with genuine interest and inquisitive thought. When viewed in its entirety, Saved proves to be a valid and much needed satirical critique of the growing Christian subculture. The movie explores, comically and critically, the world and lives of students and teachers at a Christian private school, the American Eagle Christian School. It addresses Modern Christianity’s view on such issues as swearing, homosexuality, sex, adultery, smoking, non-Christians, worship, and speaking in tongues. Being a movie meant to critique, Christianity’s views regarding the aforementioned issues are mercilessly shredded throughout the movie. Many of these critiques are valid and accurate, but some are overstated. A valid critique is Christianity’s lack of tolerance of homosexuals. In general, the Christians in Saved are portrayed as being intolerant and abusive toward homosexuals, treating them as if they were inhuman and in need of “curing.” This is a realistic representation of Christianity’s view of homosexuals in modern day America. It is tragic to see so many Christians acting in condemnation and hate towards homosexuals, while turning a blind eye to such glaring issues as adultery, divorce, and premarital sex. The movie also factually shows Christianity’s refusal to acknowledge these ever present devastating issues. The fact is, Jesus said little to nothing regarding homosexuality, but rarely stopped talking about loving your [homosexual] neighbor as yourself and taking care of the poor. Another valid criticism in the movie is its portrayal of Christianity’s taboo concerning smoking and swearing. Both of these issues reveal little about one’s heart. It is pitiful that the church has wasted so much time, energy, and anguish on such external issues. Though Saved stands as an excellent critique of Modern Christianity, it did cross the line in few areas, such as worship, Christianity’s view of non-Christians, and prayer. The director of Saved demonstrates an obvious understanding of Christian pop culture, but does ease into comical error in these few areas. In nearly every instance of exaggeration or error, it is obviously for the purpose of comedy. Yet, this does not erase the fact the Christians were made to appear fairly shallow, goofy, and condemning in many scenes throughout the movie. It is because of these discrepancies that many Christians have discounted this fine movie as ludicrous. Unfortunately, many Christians will deliberately avoid seeing this film simply because their skin is too thin to take a healthy dose of valid comical criticism. Many Christians have sadly forgotten how to discern. Void of the ability to accept valid critique, the Christian church has been weakened. Christians need to have the wisdom to step back from their presuppositions, and honestly evaluate their actions and views. Saved is a perfect example of a reasonable but frank critique of modern Christianity, that would be widely accepted and evaluated by Christians if we had any desire to be honest and genuine in our walk with Christ.
Below is a review from www.theooze.com
LINK:http://www.theooze.com/articles/article.cfm?id=939
SAVED
by Adam Beach
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As an extremely sardonic and satirical critique of Modern Christian pop culture, the movie Saved has been largely scorned and ruthlessly ridiculed in Evangelical sectors for its merciless look into the shallow world of the modern evangelical movement. Yet, some Christians have reacted to the movie with genuine interest and inquisitive thought. When viewed in its entirety, Saved proves to be a valid and much needed satirical critique of the growing Christian subculture. The movie explores, comically and critically, the world and lives of students and teachers at a Christian private school, the American Eagle Christian School. It addresses Modern Christianity’s view on such issues as swearing, homosexuality, sex, adultery, smoking, non-Christians, worship, and speaking in tongues. Being a movie meant to critique, Christianity’s views regarding the aforementioned issues are mercilessly shredded throughout the movie. Many of these critiques are valid and accurate, but some are overstated. A valid critique is Christianity’s lack of tolerance of homosexuals. In general, the Christians in Saved are portrayed as being intolerant and abusive toward homosexuals, treating them as if they were inhuman and in need of “curing.” This is a realistic representation of Christianity’s view of homosexuals in modern day America. It is tragic to see so many Christians acting in condemnation and hate towards homosexuals, while turning a blind eye to such glaring issues as adultery, divorce, and premarital sex. The movie also factually shows Christianity’s refusal to acknowledge these ever present devastating issues. The fact is, Jesus said little to nothing regarding homosexuality, but rarely stopped talking about loving your [homosexual] neighbor as yourself and taking care of the poor. Another valid criticism in the movie is its portrayal of Christianity’s taboo concerning smoking and swearing. Both of these issues reveal little about one’s heart. It is pitiful that the church has wasted so much time, energy, and anguish on such external issues. Though Saved stands as an excellent critique of Modern Christianity, it did cross the line in few areas, such as worship, Christianity’s view of non-Christians, and prayer. The director of Saved demonstrates an obvious understanding of Christian pop culture, but does ease into comical error in these few areas. In nearly every instance of exaggeration or error, it is obviously for the purpose of comedy. Yet, this does not erase the fact the Christians were made to appear fairly shallow, goofy, and condemning in many scenes throughout the movie. It is because of these discrepancies that many Christians have discounted this fine movie as ludicrous. Unfortunately, many Christians will deliberately avoid seeing this film simply because their skin is too thin to take a healthy dose of valid comical criticism. Many Christians have sadly forgotten how to discern. Void of the ability to accept valid critique, the Christian church has been weakened. Christians need to have the wisdom to step back from their presuppositions, and honestly evaluate their actions and views. Saved is a perfect example of a reasonable but frank critique of modern Christianity, that would be widely accepted and evaluated by Christians if we had any desire to be honest and genuine in our walk with Christ.
Sep 28, 2005
Jesus Isn't Cool, Discipleship v. ???,
Is the church/youth group to entertain those who attend or is it to make disciples?
Are we to make disciples or converts or church members?
What does it mean to make disciples?
What is a Disciple of Christ? Answers will be given on Sunday night in a couple weeks.
I ran across a good article recently titled “Jesus Isn’t Cool” (http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=1219) and a good Blog in response (http://www.internetmonk.com/archives/2005/09/020017.html), with good comments and then a 30 minute podcast(?) (http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/the_white_horse_inn/Archives.asp) that even though I don’t agree with all these guys’ theology or even church methodology, they make some good comments about what the church is all about. And it’s not entertainment. Click on the broadcast titled “My Kids are Bored in Church.”
Some say, “What you win them with is what you will keep them with.” This means if someone becomes a Christian (or church member) because of a fancy presentation, concert, game night, or good snacks ... that is what they will expect the church to be, if it changes they are no longer interested.
What should our main things be?
The following is a paragraph from the “Jesus Isn’t Cool” article:
“One student … participated in his church’s “”40 Days of Purpose”” campaign, hoping that an exploration of Rick Warren’s popular book The Purpose Driven Life would help. Instead, he reached this conclusion: ““I don’t understand why you need God for a sense of purpose, self-esteem, or whatever … lots of people have that without God.”” This young man was on to something.”
What does he mean by this?
What is God calling us to be?
Are we to make disciples or converts or church members?
What does it mean to make disciples?
What is a Disciple of Christ? Answers will be given on Sunday night in a couple weeks.
I ran across a good article recently titled “Jesus Isn’t Cool” (http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=1219) and a good Blog in response (http://www.internetmonk.com/archives/2005/09/020017.html), with good comments and then a 30 minute podcast(?) (http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/the_white_horse_inn/Archives.asp) that even though I don’t agree with all these guys’ theology or even church methodology, they make some good comments about what the church is all about. And it’s not entertainment. Click on the broadcast titled “My Kids are Bored in Church.”
Some say, “What you win them with is what you will keep them with.” This means if someone becomes a Christian (or church member) because of a fancy presentation, concert, game night, or good snacks ... that is what they will expect the church to be, if it changes they are no longer interested.
What should our main things be?
The following is a paragraph from the “Jesus Isn’t Cool” article:
“One student … participated in his church’s “”40 Days of Purpose”” campaign, hoping that an exploration of Rick Warren’s popular book The Purpose Driven Life would help. Instead, he reached this conclusion: ““I don’t understand why you need God for a sense of purpose, self-esteem, or whatever … lots of people have that without God.”” This young man was on to something.”
What does he mean by this?
What is God calling us to be?
Sep 26, 2005
Ducks v USC
Well it started well. Just like I suggested.
USC was intimidated by Autzen, in my opinion. That didn't last too long.
Overall it showed we have a good team (when you count our stadium/crowd as part of our team). And USC is possibly the greatest ever.
Reggie Bush is amazing...its like he is a NFL player is playing with kids. The way he moved, wow! The way he would use hits to his advantage was awesome.
USC was intimidated by Autzen, in my opinion. That didn't last too long.
Overall it showed we have a good team (when you count our stadium/crowd as part of our team). And USC is possibly the greatest ever.
Reggie Bush is amazing...its like he is a NFL player is playing with kids. The way he moved, wow! The way he would use hits to his advantage was awesome.
Sep 18, 2005
Duck Football
So the Ducks pulled out a close one with 23rd ranked Fresno State on Saturday. That means we are 3-0.
Next week we play #1 USC at Autzen. That place is going to rock.
The Ducks need to score early to get the crowd going and then score in every quarter to keep them going, because no one in their right mind thinks of us as favored to win. But if they give us a little hope it is going to be fun.
I wish I could be there, no tickets though. And scalpers are probably asking top dollar. It’s on TV so I’ll get to see some of the excitement!
Next week we play #1 USC at Autzen. That place is going to rock.
The Ducks need to score early to get the crowd going and then score in every quarter to keep them going, because no one in their right mind thinks of us as favored to win. But if they give us a little hope it is going to be fun.
I wish I could be there, no tickets though. And scalpers are probably asking top dollar. It’s on TV so I’ll get to see some of the excitement!
Sep 17, 2005
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