The Way Home (DVD)

Usually I receive books through BookSneeze – the organization that I get to review books for Thomas Nelson, but this time it was different. A DVD came instead. The Way Home is a movie based on a true story of the Simpkins family going through life as so many of us do; busy, stressed and a little on edge. Just as they were finally taking that much needed family vacation with their three boys a horrible things happens. Joe, their 2 year old son, disappears. The Simpkins live in a very rural area with lots of trees, ponds and places begging to be explored by a little boy. Within minutes of realizing he was missing, emergency response teams were in place to come help search. Not only trained professionals showed up, but hoards of people from local churches, many that the family didn’t even know. During this stressful and emotional time for the Simpkins family they are shown love and support by friends, family and complete strangers who come to walk the land around the house in a close grip pattern. Hours go by with no leads, until one older man remembers where he used to go as a child. He heads that way and low and behold, Joe is there, scared and ready to go home. Needless to say, the family is thrilled, as is everyone there helping. A huge celebration is thrown and a new appreciation for family time is understood by all. This movie, while low budget and admittedly somewhat cheesy acting, it really made an impression about priorities and family bonding. It is worth a watch.

The Heavens Proclaim His Glory

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I signed on for the book The Heavens Proclaim His Glory, created and compiled by Lisa Stilwell. I thought maybe a nice little packet of photos of some stars and maybe a few facts stated here or there. From the moment I opened the package I was impressed. This was no small packet; rather it is a weighty hard cover book that with a very striking design. As you first page through it, you see the breathtaking photos of outer space. It truly is remarkable, not only the images themselves, but the fact that we have the technology to capture such sights. The vivid colors and amazing designs almost look as if some graphic artist spent their time on the computer editing a photo of the rainbow, but as you look closely at these images, you are left to gaze in awe at the incredible shots. Each page not only has something to catch the eye, but a Bible verse or an inspiring quote. You are given specific details of each photo, all the while thinking that this simply could not have “exploded” into being. This book helps to reaffirm my believe that God made this universe and that He is a God of beauty and majesty. I will no doubt be leaving this on my coffee table for others to see.