Big Idea
This is Christmas done Veggie style. Anyone who is a fan of these fun loving vegetables will LOVE this wonderful DVD about the joys of giving and intertwining the story of God's love for humanity through giving. The story itself is about a boy who came to be known as St. Nicholas as he learned the art and joy of creative giving when faced with heavy political oppression. This sounds like a heavy story but it is filled with the zany antics of the veggies, fun and sing along (able) songs including "Silly Songs With Mr. Lundt" entitled "Donuts For Benny". There are plenty of extras on the DVD plus a wonderful short/introduction to Operation Christmas Child and a music video featuring Amy Grant and Matthew West.
I personally believe you cannot go wrong with this modern day tale of the legend of St. Nicholas. These veggies are guaranteed to make your child smile and also teach them the moral lesson of the joys of giving.
Rating: 5 Out of 5 pops.
3-2-1 Penguins! Escape From Planet Hold A Grudge
Big Idea
Big Ideas 3-2-1 Penguins never quite got the recognition the Veggie Tales received but this does not mean it is inferior in the least. These fun loving Penguins have been tickling the funny bones of children for close to a decade all the while teaching values and lessons that will last a lifetime. In their newest DVD the Penguins take journies with Michelle and Jason as they learn the importance of forgiveness, kindness and working together. This DVD features three shorts entitled "Do Unto Brothers", "Oh Mercy!" and "Between an Asteroid in a Hard Place."
Overall, my children enjoyed watching this latest DVD from the Penguins. Even though they may not have found a place in their hearts as the Veggies do they do enjoy the shorts on this DVD. Most of all they learned the valuable lessons on forgiveness and kindness to one another.
Rating 4 Out of 5 pops.
By Darin Hufford
Windblown Media
As a Pastor I meet countless people who have had negative experiences with Christianity. Unfortunately most of those people have experienced some sort of spiritual abuse by a church or individual or were just taught horrible things about God. Apparently this is a common thing since author Darrin Hufford has devoted an entire book entitled "The Misunderstood God" to help individuals who have experienced some sort of negative encounters with the Church or God's people. Hufford spends a good deal of time exposing some of the lies that we have been told about God and the Church and brings to light some truths that should be a healing salve to individuals who have turned their backs on him or the Church. Darin attempts to clear the air that God is this angry old man in heaven just waiting to send individuals to hell and instead paints a picture of a God who is loving, just and wildly in love with His children.
For me this was a decent read and one I will pass along to people I know who have had struggles with their faith. This book is perfect for individuals who may have been hurt by the church or in particular a Christian who imposed legalism onto them. The Misunderstood God should be a breath of fresh air for these individuals as they are shown the truth about a God who is proud of his children and loves them very much.
Rating 4 Out of 5 pops.
