Jesus And Popcorn

This past weekend saw the release of the Son Of God movie to various theaters around the country. I took my youth group to see it this past Sunday during our fellowship time. I was thankful of the various conversations that came afterwards which was why I wanted to take them.  Famous TV producer Mark Burnett (Survivor) and his wife, actress Roma Downey (Touched By An Angel) bring to the big screen their adaptation of certain events displayed in the life of Jesus. They produced a TV mini series, The Bible, for the History Channel last year to rave reviews and big ratings as it covered many significant stories from the Bible. While much of the footage for the movie aired on TV there were some additional scenes added as well as some scenes removed. The mini series had an amazing soundtrack and a true big movie scope to it unlike anything before. It also showed a grit to it that made you feel like you were right in the stories as they happened. This movie branched out of the mini series to go along with the Easter season and has seen a great response at the box office. "Son of God opened in second place with an estimated $26.5 million, exceeding more than the $15-$20 million many claimed it would have. Even the distributor 20th Century Fox predicted $12-$15 million. There will always be a target audience to reach when doing these movies but most experts claim that it will always be a roll of the dice.

Now let me be very clear that if you are going to this movie to see all of the context as recorded as it happened word for word via the Holy Bible I regret to inform you that you will not see a lot of what was recorded. The movie itself runs at 150 minutes and is more or less a capsule summary of events in Jesus life. And you are not getting all of the Gospels in chronological order either so take note of that. So many times we hear and read about what all is left out of these movies, misinterpreted, or how they may be too contemporary, too traditional, too intense, too exaggerated, too Baptist, too Methodist, too Catholic, too religious etc. As a believer and a struggling at times but growing disciple of Jesus Christ let me just say to you don't be caught up in what the movie doesn't say or do. The very purpose of why Christ came to this world being born to die for our transgressions is indeed a part of this movie. The price was paid in His sacrifice so that we may have eternal life with Him. The fact that He was and is the I AM is stated. He shows his compassion and quiet confidence at times on the screen. And yes if you are not moved by the scenes at the cross then you probably don't get it and more or less this blog will not speak to you. Now sure we can go and pull out all of our complaints and point out whats missing from this film as most are doing. But in a way it's ironic how much like being in a church in today's culture, we only pull out what we want to hear and see done. We tend to take what benefits us and maybe tears down others and mix it into some kind of legalistic mojo we wear on our sleeves. A sad analogy is the fact that we as men struggle to listen in life especially if we are married. I hear my wife alot and many times very clear but I don't listen to what she is saying when in fact she is sharing something way awesome to hear. I challenge you to watch the movie and then come away wanting to dig deeper for yourself. The fact that there are some specifics that are indeed left out should make you want to do this. Go in all the Gospels and read with your own eyes the beautiful masterpiece that is painted. All answers are there. If you're not careful you may come away with more than you started with as far as your faith goes. I'm glad that we get this movie however in some ways a short version to view as an offering and testimony to what He, Jesus, himself did for us. And to celebrate not only what He has done in the past but what He is doing now  in our every day lives. Or even what He can do for us. For you.

Yes I know there may never be a perfect film or series documenting the Gospels. But see if I'm depending solely on what I see to believe or what somebody else tells me then my faith is weak. Faith is shared in the bible being defined in Hebrews chapter 11 by not only a definition but examples spread throughout God's Word. Faith is love in action as well. My faith is challenged to go deeper and hold tighter even if I can't see whats ahead of me. I trust in His will and His Word alone. I am thankful that I am not dependent on a movie or another book to show me the whole story. From an early age until now I am holding on to the truth that I as you can be or you have been saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. So go see the movie and then go back as I did and rediscover the whole story. His story. What He said and What He did. 

So maybe as you go to watch the movie for whatever reason that may be, while eating that bucket of popcorn there may be a moment that causes you to reflect or even celebrate who Jesus is to you. 

Snow, Earthquakes, Birthday fun, and Ric Flair

Well it's been over a week since my last post so this whole blogging experiment has started slowly but hey it's a new week and I have some time to share some thoughts. Again when I started this I had various ideas of what all I wanted to share. I obviously wanted to share about my faith and the applications that I feel others can gain from that faith. I also wanted to share personal stories as well as just random topics of daily interest whether it be current events or other subjects. I just wanted to treat it like a buffet not knowing what all you will get but knowing it will be something either insightful and/or entertaining. So hopefully I can get a few out this week. Today's will be one of those random posts so here we go.

We just came off of Valentine's Day and here in SC what we now refer as Winter Blast 2014. Over 6 inches of snow and ice added together causing for a whole week shutdown. And with that came some fun playing with my kids as well as by the end of the week having cabin fever. It was great to be together but we all needed some alone time by that Friday. And that day being Valentine's Day was great because I was able to take my wife out to eat and have some kid free time. But the exclamation point came in the form of an earthquake about 50 miles or so from where I live. The aftershock was felt that Friday night and sent a social media shock wave off in our area. The news outlets were quick to hit the air and let's just say that the initial interviews were of high entertainment value among the local residents.

My daughter Caitlin celebrated her 6th birthday this past weekend. Seriously time has to slow down a bit. This kid is growing more and more every day. She is too smart for her own good at times but such a blessing. We have a great bond that has grown. We are just a like which causes conflict at times but also is refreshing because I can see so much of me in her. Her birthday fell on Wednesday this year and she was able to be around my youth group that night. They sang Happy Birthday to her as well sang one of her favorite songs Washed By The Water with her. She also had a Frozen themed party at home during the weekend. So it was a great week for her and I think she was overly satisfied.

Later this week I am looking forward to seeing the Nature Boy Ric Flair in Spartanburg, SC. He will be appearing for an autograph and photo session. Not gonna go into a big spill now but maybe for one of next week's blogs but I am jacked up for this. I have been a long time wrestling fan as well as a Flair fan. Have had the chance to see him wrestle live in his prime and appear in his latter years. This will definitely be a bucket list moment for me so I hope to not be too goofy and make the most of it. Should be fun.

How bout some free entertainment? To show you how crazy the Collins clan can get I thought it would be cool to post one of our music videos that was a blast to do. A different version of the song Whole New World from Aladdin. Stellar Kart is the band that provided the remake and it's a lot of fun. Notice the Jasmine doll held by Caitlin during the song as well as my son Chase's Nascar like dance moves. Enjoy. 

Gonna leave this for now with the hopes of some more blogs this week. But had to get back on track and caught up to speed. Hope everyone has a blessed day and makes the most out of their time today.

Flappy Faith

Remember a little game called Angry Birds? Yeah that multi-million dollar sensation that dominated phones and computers alike. Remember when that was the rage? Well the last month has seen a new "bird" sensation take over and it's called Flappy Bird. Have you seen this and played it yet? Better yet have you slipped and said a few bad words while playing it or even threw your phone across the room? The game in itself doesn't wow you with it's state of the art graphics. Matter of fact hardcore video game fans have voiced their displeasure with the use of some familiar green tunnels that are similar to the 1980s classic Super Mario Brothers. 

Well the goal of the game is to direct this flappy bird in between a maze of small open spaces with a tunnel at the top and bottom of the screen. Just see my picture below if I'm confusing you. Well every time you succeed you get a point but if you touch the tunnels the game is over. Slight of hand and a steady eye can lead to success. But overall it has been a celebrated struggle by many of the users. It has led many like any arcade game to the repeated investment of hours to conquer new highs in this game. 
                                                          

Just this past weekend the creator Doug Nguyen announced that the app for his game would be dropped from all available app sites due to what he references an overwhelming demand on him. The game has been in high demand and has averaged $50,000 daily since it's take off. Not sure if it will be sold or brought back but it has been a phenom here in early 2014. And leads me to think about the following.

As crazy as it may seem there's a lot we can relate this game to when regards to our faith. Specifically our faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is defined in the scripture within the book of Hebrews chapter 11. Starting with verse 1 it says "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." The chapter itself has been dubbed the "faith hall of fame" chapter.
Following verse one are 39 verses that highlight various accounts of faith and it's effects displayed by those referenced in the Bible. Small, big and in between are covered and all with the knowledge that faith is sure and certain. It starts with believing in who God says He is and it book ends with believing in His promises meaning He will do what He says. If we trust and believe that He will fulfill these promises there lies the foundation to true faith. 
                                                                    

Jesus himself answered his disciples by telling them in Matthew 17:20 the power of true faith:
"Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

As a youth minister I see and hear many stories of faith struggles. Struggles to trust and be confident as a disciple of Christ. Trusting that taking a stand for Him can elevate your faith not crush it. Whether it's teens or adults even we all struggle with our faith foundation. Now flying a bird in between tunnels has been a frustration for many not because it can't be done but whether it be a lack of patience or an easiness to be frustrated the game itself has struck a nerve. I try to encourage my youth and others that our faith in Christ should be firm and secure with no doubt and no regrets. If he asks us to do something or an opportunity comes to share something we should answer to the call in faith. When He called me into Student Ministry I responded in faith having no idea what was ahead but knew He was in control. When I asked my wife to marry me I trusted in the fact she would say yes and it was God's will. So much I proposed in front of 3,000 people at a high school football game. And I could go on with other examples.

We tend to view faith like a honor system with God. Hey if I do and say for you then you can pay me back right? There is reward by trusting and holding a faith in Christ even in the most difficult times. But you see we grow as a people with limited patience. It has to be now or never. The time needed for growth and discipline is not desired yet we lash out at the lack of fulfillment due to having faith. In that chapter of Hebrews verse 6 hits it real clear the following:
                                                                                   

Now you may not be a believer but still you put faith in someone or something. You probably count it as a reward when something works for your good and also count it as a loss when otherwise working against you. But when have you searched His will for your life out to the point of pure relentless trust. And how many times have we dismissed true blessings as a coincidence or luk of the draw.

I would encourage you to read this Hebrews chapter and then reference the stories mentioned. Let it challenge and encourage you as it does me in my walk. Maybe it's time to let go of a Flappy Faith. Maybe it's time for a new game plan. Maybe you need to put your trust in the unknown rather than what you choose to see daily. Frustration aside it's a better payoff and just like that bird you can fly again.

The First One

Hello and Good Monday to you. This is a blog attempt by yours truly and I ask forgiveness for not having a better greeting but here we go anyways so bear with me. So I just decided to try this as a way if any to share my random thoughts, stories, revelations, wit, limited wisdom, and maybe some blessing to you the reader. That's a lot to uphold but I'm gonna try.

I'm sure if anyone reads this and does not know me they are now waiting on a detailed biography. Well that will come later with stories and other things. I really just thought this first blog would be totally random. However I will just let the record show that I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, husband, father, and a youth minister daily. Now if we don't know each other and that one little phrase frightens you or forces an unwarranted dismissal I simply ask to give me a chance to share who I am before you make an opinion. Now on to my thoughts for the day.
                                                      

Was there a football game on last night? The Super Bowl was on last night? Wow. Talk about a massive unexpected result of disappointment in the game itself. Now mind you I am speaking to it not being more competitive but not to diminish the two teams and their paths to get there. First off I'm an Atlanta Falcons fan (for the record) so I had no dog in the hunt. As a kid I liked watching John Elway and the Broncos. I have a lot of respect and admiration for Peyton Manning even though the praise he gained this weekend was quickly turned to criticism as we often do in life. He's a great QB and will be a hall of fame inductee when the time is due. He just ran into a buzz saw defense from the Seattle Seahawks, the youngest team in the NFL who played with hunger and spirit from start to finish. The best TEAM won the game as to say that perhaps the best player on the field didn't win. Russel Wilson is a solid pro QB and I have a ton of respect for him as a fellow believer in Christ using his platform. This could be argued as one of the most if not most impressive defensive performances by any team in a Super Bowl. The end result is pretty convincing.


As always the main hype for a Super Bowl is geared towards the commercials. And while overall I would say the entertainment value this year was not as good there was one that really got me fired up. Radio Shack with their ad featured several iconic celebrities from the 80s entering their store wanting to "take back their Radio Shack" and forcing you to watch the replay to see who all was in the commercial. From Hulk Hogan to Mary Lou Retton to Alf to Qbert to Ponch from the TV show Chips this was a trip for a guy who loves any and all things from the 80s. May have not been the overall winner but definitely was great seeing these icons for a one minute shout out to nostalgia.

I just recently took my family to Walt Disney World and had one of the best weeks ever. My wife Crystal and I who just celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary took our two children Caitlin who is 5 and Chase who is 3. My oldest niece Molly also went to help out with the kids and as a whole we just had some great memories. There is nothing like seeing things via the outlook of kids and this trip was no disappointment. Now I am the biggest kid you will meet and was just as jacked about Mickey as they were but seeing them react and just light up was the biggest blessing overall. The moment I remember most was during the fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom. Nothing beats watching a fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom. That night  as I watched my kids enjoy those fireworks especially the look in Caitlin's eyes, it was one of those great moments as a Daddy I will never forget. I had fun mind you but that was amazing. Thankful and blessed to have that and all the moments shared as a simple reminder that every moment spent with our children is precious and borrowed time.
                                   

I am a youth minister as mentioned earlier and I definitely have a passion for young people and their growth in the Lord. This week is a full week for us filled with lots of great uplifting music. We will be seeing the band Rend Collective on Wednesday followed by the annual Winter Jam concert in Greenville, SC featuring a full slate of artists. I love music. With what we or many label Christian music there is much variety which is a good thing since I like variety in styles. Just as in any music I can start out the day listening to the Beach Boys, mix in some Alabama, and end with Lionel Richie. I have an extensive library you would say. But I love gospel music and I love music that encourages, challenges, and demands my growth as a Christian while also giving thanks and praise for what He has done in my life. So I'm looking forward to this week of music. Did I mention I play bass in our church praise band? Yes music is awesome. As is serving and ministering to a great youth group. I have been blessed to serve them and we have some awesome fellowships.

Well being the first blog I have no idea how to end it. This has not been a central themed effort but just something to get started with. So I will leave you with a quote and some scripture maybe to help with your day. Thanks for reading and please help share with others. The best is yet to come.

Lee

""When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us."
~ Alexander Graham Bell

"Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death." 
                 -Proverbs 8:32-36