Every moment of every day we are at some kind of crossroads making decisions that may seem insignificant. Sometimes looking back, we realize that a series of insignificant choices has landed us on a path we never expected to travel. I had one of those AHA! moments today, as I reflected on a movie I saw back in March of 2010. It was one of several sparks that awakened a desire in me, that eventually evolved into an online ministry focused on the love and grace of God.
It all started back in February, when the Youth Leader at my church asked me to attend the Youth Pastors Summit held at Universal Orlando Resort early in March. Part of the deal was a free pass to the theme park, and I am a roller coaster junkie, so I couldn’t resist! One of the other freebies at the Summit was a screening of a movie titled “Lord, Save Us From Your Followers.”
A very special man, Dan Merchant, had a question that haunted him. “Why is the Gospel of Love dividing America?” So he followed his heart, and for 4 years traveled across America wearing a silly white jump suit covered with bumper stickers, and asked anyone and everyone to just talk with him about Christians, and their view of Christianity. It is far more than open and honest, and it is not anything that you would expect. In his review, Oregonian columnist, Steve Duin, refers to “Lord, Save Us From Your Followers” as “a peace offering not a battle cry.”
What Dan learned is at times shocking, at times painful, and quite often just hilarious, but at the same time, it is the TRUTH that Christians need to hear and learn from. It is representative of a conversation we all need to have. “Lord, Save Us From Your Followers,” brilliantly packages this truth into a humorous, yet touching documentary, of Dan’s journey across America. Cameo appearances by a host of pop culture icons, politicians, newscasters, and outspoken theologians make it relevant and timely.
It takes great courage to put your whole self on the line, and make a commitment to embrace the truth with no preconceived notion of what the truth should be. It is from that perspective that true success is achieved. “Lord Save Us From Your Followers” has begun a conversation that exposes why people “out there” feel that the church is not relevant in their lives. It is a must see film for anyone who considers themselves a Christian, and for anyone who has tasted the disapproval of a judgmental church. Watch the trailer now!
Lynn! As always, you continue to (blow me out of the water) with your writing. It has both creativity and inspiration. I am sure that those who have not seen this movie yet, will definitely do so, as a result of your excellent presentation.
Great writing Lynn!! Very creative and formatted nicely.
Wow Lynn! Great post and the video finished it off beautifully. This is something that everyone can benefit from. Thanks for sharing:)
This is absolutely wonderful, Lynn. You have done it again. This makes me want to run and get the movie now. I know it is going to be as interesting as it sounds. Thank you for sharing this wonderful presentation.
That was just an amazing article – I really enjoyed and thanks for sharing and love the way that you added the video
It’s posts like this that keep me coming back and checking this site regularly, thanks for the info!
Aw, this was a really quality post. In theory I’ d like to write like this too – taking time and real effort to make a good article… but what can I say… I procrastinate alot and never seem to get something done.
Nice site, nice and easy on the eyes and great content too.