I really appreciate your comments and your heart to even read and respond to my blog. While our worldviews may differ, and it would perhaps take pages to delineate them (or hopefully several conversations over coffee ), I’m most happy that we can engage each other and learn from one another as unique and special human beings. The only defense I will pose here to your assertions is that my writings are not some ruse to trap people into my beliefs. I do value my beliefs and don’t believe they are meant just for me, and so communicate them openly. But one thing I know is that God loves us enough to reach out to where we are, in our culture, in nature, in sacred writings, and, yes, even in books and movies. So, to me, the bridge between God and culture (movies, books) should be a cause for celebration, rather than a cause for some dark agenda–that the creator can be discovered in his creation, and within human creativity. I’m sure there is a vast complexity and creativity to you, too, Rafael. And, I celebrate that too. God bless and thanks again for your comments.

Cheers,
John

Thinking of the Bible as literature, I have sometimes heard people wonder at the purpose of fiction, but I believe that Jesus set the example when He taught using parables. Fiction can serve a noble and sometimes powerful purpose.

I am so very blessed by what God has done in your life. But, other than that I can see His hand and His heart in you. I am inspired and blessed by your walk and your willingness to get to the deeper things in life without fear. And to all those who have read your blogs and commented to you. I want to say that I know these things because I am your sister. I have seen the many miracles he has performed in your life.

With much love. Your Sis.

Much is said in the Bible about the Pharisees and Saducees and there tendency to overplay their devotion by ostentatious public displays of worship. It is really just a matter of degree.

Don’t get me wrong, I’d take you over “Reverends” Jerry Falwell and Jimmy Swaggart any day of the week (that’s not saying much, I know, but I’m just trying to make a point here), but it seems that you all, along with untold numbers of “Christians,” violate one of the most basic tenets of the very book you claim to follow.

Respectfully,
Rafael Ventura-Rosa

I love you John. Your brain power is awesome talent on loan from God. There’s a gentle calm in you. Thank you!

Jim

I’m sitting here weeping thinking of all my favorite movies and why they are my favorite. Usually it has to do with an ordinary guy thrust into a situation out of his control, or a sacrifice by the character for the good of the many.

Great blog brother!

Those ideas are something I constantly try to infuse into my own work (to varying degrees of success).

A.S. Peterson

Congrats John!

Some powerful films are Jean De Florette and Manon of the Spring. They are French films that tell compelling stories and are exceedingly well made.

God Bless!
Eric

It’s inspiring to think of ourselves as characters in this incredible story! Thanks for reminding us! Now, I have to go watch As Good As it Gets again…

Thanks for sharing brother!

Bless you..Lindi