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A few months ago Genee and I were invited to preview a movie that was to be released within the coming months. It was a new Christian film which chronicled the story of MercyMe’s lead singer (a popular Christian band). Quite honestly, I receive these type of invitations quite frequently from film promoters who are attempting to lock in the church’s significant financial support for their production. I usually turn down the opportunity for these type events. A busy schedule coupled with the fact that many “Christian” films leave much to be desired have led me to wait until the movie is released on video. However, Genee and I decided to attend the private screening for I Can Only Imagine and we had no regrets. In fact, both of us walked away commenting that it was one of the best movies we had ever seen. As our church will be viewing our own private screening during the weekend premiere of this film, note some of the main storylines which make this movie so impactful for our faith.
1. Fatherhood is magnified. All of us will readily admit that the impact of a father upon his family and children cannot be overstated. This film provides the frightening and powerful means by which a father can influence his family. The main character’s father is truthfully portrayed as a monster to his son. By Bart Millard’s (MercyMe’s lead singer) own account, his father terribly abused him as a young man and this abuse would detrimentally affect his life. However, the viewer will discover that the positive influence of a godly father pays tremendous dividends, even if that godly leadership is late in life. “The glory of children are their fathers” (Proverbs 17:6).
2. Redemption is available. While none of us is free of the need for forgiveness, the powerful transformation of a character in this film is certainly extraordinary. Hardened by our own experiences, most of us believe that there are some people whom God just cannot—or is unwilling—to change. However, this film correctly reflects upon the promise of hope in Jesus Christ—there is no one beyond the grace of God. “Where sin increased, grace increased all the more” (Romans 5:20).
3. Forgiveness is needed. This film rightfully portrays the struggle common to us all in the matter of forgiveness. There are awful things done to us with which we find very difficult to forgive. As the main character in this film battles against the urge toward bitterness, the viewer will undoubtedly be challenged with his/her own need to receive and grant forgiveness. In an age in which so many movies are feeding our thirst for revenge, this film truthfully offers the freedom that is found only in forgiveness. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).
4. Dreaming is encouraged. While our culture has shamefully placed an emphasis upon the escape of fantasy, the practice of understanding and following the dreams God has for each of us is encouraged throughout the Scriptures. The main character of the film courageously chases the dream which God planted inside of his heart. Through hard work, setbacks, and a persistent faith, we will discover that God’s unfolding plan for our lives will be greater than anything we would have attempted on our own. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).
Make plans today to attend this private screening of I Can Only Imagine. You will be entertained…but even more, your faith will be encouraged!
Jason