by Chris Doyle | Feb 27, 2015
Greetings!
It’s cold outside. Scary weather is all around us, with differing reports on how it should affect the OKC metro this weekend, and other regions of the country are getting hit hard with snow.
This means it’s a great time to stay inside and read the latest edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen. Here’s my take on six timely topics. Enjoy!
- The Dress
Good grief people! Who cares? Seriously? I had no idea 20+ million people were obsessing over the color of a dress in a photo.
My first awareness of this social media frenzy was last night, while getting ready to watch the Thunder-Suns game (I don’t want to talk about it). I thought it was a dress that my cousin’s daughter owned because she was my only exposure to it, at the time. I concluded the dress was white and gold, and I moved on.
Then at halftime, I take a further screening on Facebook and, to my utter amazement, I could not believe the level of attention that was given to this dress. The morning talk shows are fixated on this dress and the number of people all over the world who are discussing it.
Isn’t it amazing? Yes, it’s ridiculous, but the high level of communication about a dress in Scotland (I think?) going around the world as the current most popular social media topic in less than a day is astounding.
Dear Christians, we should be challenged on how to make the Gospel span a similar course. I think we would agree the greatest message ever given to mankind deserves an even greater influence than that of the fascination of debating the color of a dress. May God enlighten and equip us to make it happen… and soon!
- Adrian Peterson, the Vikings and the NFL should reconcile
One of my favorite words is reconciliation. I love what it means and its results. The feeling of being reconciled is awesome. It is an extreme relief of a heavy burden.
But it’s not easy to occur. It takes a process over time – sometimes years, for others a lifetime, to experience reconciliation.
I usually emphasize reconciliation around Christmas time, as my favorite Christmas carol “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” mentions it – “God and sinners reconciled” … even now I’m pumped thinking about that lyric.
Now that the court has ruled in favor of Adrian Peterson, allowing for the running back to be reinstated to play in the NFL, I believe the best result in all of this is for all parties to reconcile. Peterson is sorry for what he did. The Vikings have said they would welcome him back. The NFL appears miffed by this decision, but I believe it would be best for the commissioner to reprieve Peterson.
Move on, bury the hatchet, let bygones be bygones.
Yes, there will be critics. Yes, there are those who will make an emphasis on the concerns of child abuse, which is a serious matter and not to be taken lightly or remised. Peterson admitted he went beyond what was appropriate in the handling of his son, and I think he has been duly penalized. Many will disagree.
But I don’t want to see someone punished because of the overbearing influence of public opinion that is ignited by bitterness and a vindictive spirit. Instead, I desire reconciliation. It’s one of the best reflections of the Gospel.
- SBC Annual Meeting getting a new look
The Southern Baptist Convention is in need of a resurgence. Chris Forbes addressed his concerns about the SBC last summer in his piece “What happened to the Southern Baptist Convention?”
It appears current SBC President Ronnie Floyd is taking the concerns seriously that Forbes and others have voiced and making numerous appeals to Southern Baptists to attend this year’s annual meeting in Columbus, Ohio, June 16-17. According to Denny Burk, Floyd also is revamping the meeting’s program to make it more attractive and is including panel discussions of pertinent issues.
I plan to attend the SBC meeting this year. I will be curious to see if Floyd and other SBC leaders will be successful in impacting the largest Evangelical Christian religious denomination.
- Russell Moore speaks on Reparative Therapy
As part of the new look at the SBC Annual Meeting in June, a panel discussion will be featured titled “The Supreme Court and Same-Sex Marriage: Preparing Our Churches for the Future.” One of the panelists will be Russell Moore, who is the president of SBC’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC).
If you are not familiar with Dr. Moore, I believe he is the one of the best communicators of our time in addressing social issues from a Biblical perspective. His calm, respectful, objective delivery is excellent, and he is well equipped to discuss matters that are challenging the Church today.
I had the privilege of hearing Moore at the ERLC Conference last fall. Of the many topics he tackled, one that seems to be hot right now is on Reparative Therapy. Go to this link and listen to Moore masterfully articulate his perspective on this concerning issue.
- Be watching for War Room
If you are a fan of the movies Facing the Giants, Fireproof and Courageous, then you will be excited to know the creators of those Christian films have another one coming out in August called War Room.
These movies have always impressed me. Some may not consider them to be of the level of Hollywood’s box office hits, but their entertainment value sticks and can make a difference that would surpass all Oscar-winning shows.
Those of you in Oklahoma, I am aware of some special screenings happening in April. I will tell more in weeks to come. In the meantime, go to the official site of War Room to learn more about the movie.
- Macyn’s Marvelous Manuscript
I end this week’s DHD with a shout out to Macyn Neuschaefer. This third grader wrote an essay titled “Color Blind Friends” about her friendship with Gabrielle. She was recognized at a recent Thunder game and received a trophy for being a “Thunder Black History Month Hero.”
Her essay is powerful. I read it multiple times and was inspired every time. And I also liked it because Macyn said she and Gabrielle have birthdays close together, and mine is pretty close to theirs!
Here’s a video recapping her experience, but pause it to read her essay. I hope it inspires you too.
by Chris Doyle | Feb 26, 2015
Kevin Costner does a good job in his latest movie McFarland USA. The Oscar winner plays a high school coach named Jim White who is running out of job opportunities. Bad coaching experiences in his past have caused him and his family to move to a California community that consists mostly of Latino American “pickers.”
It’s a rough start, but White tolerates his situation and makes a connection with seven boys who impress him with their ability to run with endurance. Taking much effort to convince the boys and the school’s leadership, White starts a cross country team while having no experience coaching track.
His coaching approach is unorthodox but definitely entertaining to watch. While other coaches have stopwatches, White uses a kitchen timer.
He also faces challenges with his family (forgets his daughter’s birthday) as well as with the families of his runners. But he overcomes and is willing to do what it takes to bond. There’s even a pleasant surprise that combines a special birthday celebration for his daughter with the heritage of his neighbors – one of the film’s highlights.
The turning point of the movie was a convicting moment for me. What White does to bond with a particular family is impressive and humbling. If he is willing to go to such levels to relate in order to get boys to run in a cross country meet, what should I do to help people experience Jesus and grasp the powerful message of the Gospel?
Based on a true story, McFarland USA is an inspiring tale. Some may say there’s a predictability element, but it’s enjoyable nonetheless. Rated PG, the movie has some language and alludes to gang activity. There’s also some aggressive family confrontations and a suicide attempt.
However, the positive messages far surpass the negative aspects, including the emphasis of family and community. There’s also a scene showing the boys praying together at a meet.
My recommendation list is not very long of current film releases, but McFarland USA would rank high compared to what is currently in the theaters. Go watch and be inspired.
Photo credit: Disney
by Chris Doyle | Feb 20, 2015
Greetings!
We’re ending the week with another edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen. Here’s my thoughts on six current topics:
1. Rob Bell
This guy is a mess. I am confused with what he thinks Christianity is. I guess he believes it’s whatever offers positivity vibes and would be accepted in today’s culture. But at times, I think he enjoys being controversial too. He proved both aspects when he had his talk with Oprah and said the church is “moments away” from accepting so-called same-sex marriage.
“For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to right teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever they want to hear. They will reject the truth and follow strange myths” (II Tim. 4:3-4 NLT).
The Apostle Paul spoke the truth when he shared this forewarning. Matt Moore gives an excellent response to Bell’s remarks about the church.
2. OKC Thunder mega-trade
Yesterday was a crazy day for NBA fans and especially for Thunder fans with the league’s trade deadline being observed. Within the final half hour, the Thunder traded Kendrick Perkins and Reggie Jackson and got multiple players who gave the team a much better outlook for not only making the playoffs but possibly advancing pretty far.
Both Perkins and Jackson were contributors to the Thunder’s success in recent years, but they both were a concern this season. Actually, Perkins has shown progress since he was no longer the regular starting center, and I thought he would be in a good position for the Thunder to re-sign for maybe a two-year contract with a much lower salary.
Jackson had his moments early this season, and I was beginning to think, with the Thunder looking healthier, playing better and now having more promise to make the playoffs, issues between Jackson and the team could smooth themselves out by the end of the season.
Neither scenarios came to pass, but it appears these two players leave with opposite regards from the team and most fans. Perk has some flaws, but he demonstrated loyalty to the team, even after he found out he was traded, giving a shout-out on Twitter to Oklahoma City and his Thunder teammates. Jackson leaves with a bitter taste, and even more reports are surfacing about how he had major clashes with the Thunder.
“Choose a good reputation over great riches, for being held in high esteem is better than having silver or gold” (Prov. 22:1 NLT).
3. ISIS beheading Christians
I don’t know if anybody pointed this out, but I thought it was quite interesting that within a two-week span of President Obama attempting to point out historic flaws that occurred in the name of Christianity as a justification for what ISIS represents of the Muslim world, the video was released of the beheading of 21 Egyptian Christians.
I can’t add any more than what well-known Christian leaders have already said, including Franklin Graham and Richard Land. But Brian Hobbs gives a great perspective.
4. Brian Williams
So much has been said, mostly in jest, about Brian Williams’ false report about his coverage of the war in Iraq. But there have been many unfortunate results in the aftermath, including his six-month suspension (which I think will become a permanent dismissal) and the postponement of his daughter’s wedding.
Once again we see how a “little sin” can turn into much greater unexpected consequences. It is a humbling reminder for myself.
And once again, I refer to Brian Hobbs and a powerful prayer he shares on Brian Williams’ behalf.
5. Exposure on upcoming BGCO conference
The Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma is hosting a valuable conference March 9-10 at Quail Springs Baptist Church in Oklahoma City. The Communications Team, of which I am a member, has been promoting this event because we know it will reveal important information and discussions about an issue that needs to be addressed in today’s churches.
I already mentioned an element of the issue in my first point of DHD – so-called “same-sex marriage.” The overall issue could be described as a rapidly growing perspective of sexuality and how the church and Christians need to respond.
An independent publication plans to report about the conference and asked for comments from BGCO about it. Here’s a statement that was submitted:
“The BGCO’s upcoming conference on ‘The Gospel, Sexuality and the Church’ was specifically designed with Baptist pastors and ministers in mind. The event, which requires paid registration, is creating interest among church lay people and others, as well, who may register. In bringing well-known voices like Dr. (Albert) Mohler and Dr. (Russell) Moore to Oklahoma, as well as local ministry leaders for the breakout topics, we believe this event will equip Christians to speak and relate well to people around us with biblical clarity. Our hope is to lead our churches and their members to embrace biblical standards of sexuality and respond to others, including those who may disagree with us, with kindness and conviction.”
I will be curious to hear how the publication presents its own take on the conference.
6. McFarland, USA
I end this week’s DHD with a movie I’m curious about seeing, possibly this weekend. Kevin Costner stars in McFarland, USA as a high school track coach who leads a team of young Latino Americans in California. It’s based on a true story, and I like what I have read so far about the film.
It’s rated PG and seems to have a similar feel to movies like Million Dollar Arm and When the Game Stands Tall. That’s all I have right now on the show, so stay tuned as I may have a review about it next week.
by Chris Doyle | Feb 12, 2015
Greetings!
Happy Valentine’s Day! I confess, this day isn’t high on my list of holidays. Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving even St. Patrick’s Day rank much higher. But I do plan to observe what this day represents with my wife, as we are planning a weekend getaway.
Love is a complicated, mysterious, misunderstood entity. It would even be more clouded and confusing, if one were to see the movie “50 Shades of Grey” (or so I’m told) which comes out this weekend. Fulfilling sexual lust, especially through acts of bondage and abuse, is a horrible misrepresentation of love, but it is unfortunate how many today seem to think love can be demonstrated in a gross sexual nature. These people are sadly mistaken.
As Christians, we know the greatest example of love. Contrary to what Whitney Houston used to sing, the greatest love of all is “that someone would lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). A more elaborate description of love can be found in I Cor. 13.
Therefore, in this week’s Doyle’s Half Dozen, I present six movies that relay a much better message of love than “50 Shades.” Now, please understand, some of these movies may not fully meet your standard of approval. Some have other flaws, such as profanity and adult situations, but from my recollection, even if from one particular scene, I drew a better reflection of love.
- “Places in the Heart”
Sally Fields plays a widow during the Depression, having to survive and keep her family and close friends together by fielding cotton with the help of her friend Moze, played by Danny Glover. You want to see real love in action? Just watch what Sally Fields does in this Oscar-winning performance.
- “Good Will Hunting”
Okay, okay. Please hear me out. Yes, I know it’s Rated R. Yes, I know it is loaded with profanity. But I’m only going to point out one particular scene. Robin Williams plays Matt Damon’s counselor, and they are talking about Will (Damon) having a date with this girl who he said is “perfect.” This is a great exchange between two tremendous actors, but I love the key line that Williams gives:
“You’re not perfect, sport, and let me save you the suspense: this girl you’ve met, she’s not perfect either. But the question is whether or not you’re perfect for each other.”
Also, the commitment that Williams’ character expresses about his wife passing away, remaining faithful to her the 18 years of their marriage, giving up six years of his job in order to care for her… yes, there are problems with this movie, but this portrayal of commitment to his wife isn’t one of them.
- “Seabiscuit”
This is another movie that I’m just pointing out one scene. Overall, I think the movie is great, but here’s the scene of emphasis:
Jeff Bridges plays the owner of the famed race horse Seabiscuit. In a scene with Tobey Maguire, the jockey, Bridges is asked by Maguire for some money. This is a breakthrough situation because Maguire has a very rough past, doesn’t get along well with most people, and for Maguire to ask his boss for money is a demonstration of humility that has not been seen yet in the movie. Bridges is willing to give him the money and asks how much he needs. Maguire requests $10. Bridges gives him $20.
You want to see an example of God’s love and grace on the movie screen (Eph. 3:18-22)? There you have it.
- “To Kill A Mockingbird”
Atticus Finch is considered by the American Film Institute to be the greatest film hero character. The powerful defense attorney, respected by many in the community shares this powerful, wise line:
“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”
Finch’s willingness to be fair and objective and defend for what is right is an excellent example of love.
- “Julie & Julia”
This creative movie is partially about Julia Childs, played by Meryl Streep, and her time in France with her husband Paul, played by Stanley Tucci. The love and commitment Paul demonstrates to Julia is strong and simply expressed in this great line that he uses to describe her:
“You are the butter to my bread and the breath to my life.”
- “Fireproof”
“Finally he mentions a Christian movie!” – you were just thinking.
Yes, “Fireproof” is a great movie and would be an excellent replacement over “50 Shades.” More than I want to share from the plot, a great example of faithful love is what happened behind the scenes.
Kirk Cameron stars as a man who is struggling with his marriage. Eventually, he and his movie wife reconcile and express their love with a passionate kiss. In order to stay true to the character as well as true to his wife in real life, Cameron went beyond what would be expected and was filmed kissing his actual wife who subbed in for the scene.
So there’s six examples. I’m sure you may have another alternative movie option. If so, please share!
by Chris Doyle | Feb 2, 2015
I thought I’d strike while the iron is hot with a DHD follow-up to the Super Bowl. You’ll notice half of my “nuggets” involve the popular commercials that most people prefer to watch over the game.
- Commercial Condensation
First of all, I was impressed with the overall presentation of the 61 unique ads that were shown during the Super Bowl broadcast. I shared my concern in last week’s DHD that the NFL should consider having more family-friendly ads during the Super Bowl in order to improve its reputation.
With more commercials emphasizing dads over beer, I’d say that alone is well above my expectations. I’ll give positives and negatives about the Super Bowl ads in the next two “nuggets.”
- Positive Promotions
McDonald’s, Snickers and the Budweiser puppy were three of the commercials I found favorable. McDonald’s basically giving back to customers by having them do “acts of kindness.” Snickers spoofing the Brady Bunch, and yes, the cute puppy makes it back home with help of his Clydesdale friends “shooing” away a mean wolf.
Dove, Toyota and Nissan inspired the relationships of Dads and children. Another Toyota ad and a Microsoft ad used inspirational themes by featuring people with prosthetic legs. Coke encouraged positive language on the internet, and Always challenged viewers to think about the phrases we use, emphasizing ones that demean girls.
The one that made me think the most was the one titled “Listen” that emphasized the No More domestic violence campaign. I had to re-watch it to catch the woman giving a cryptic message to the 911 operator. It definitely gave a powerful message.
- Adverse advertisements
The ones I did not find favorable were T-Mobile’s ad with Kim Kardashian flaunting her body, Victoria Secret’s, Turbo Tax’s Boston Tea Party and the Ted 2 movie commercial. The Fiat commercial with the old man losing his “blue pill”… all I can say to that one is “Good grief.”
The Nationwide ad showing the kid dying early was a major downer too. The Loctite ad and the “Om” commercial with Jeff Bridges were just plain weird.
Overall though, it was a pretty tame slate, given this is a secular event. As I said, it gave a reflection that the NFL is making a conscientious effort to have more positive messages.
- The play of the game
The play that won it for the Patriots is one that will be remembered forever. Defensive back Malcolm Butler snagging the Russell Wilson pass at the goal line was amazing. The rookie’s impressive INT surpasses the unbelievable catch by Seattle wide receiver Jermaine Kearse that was two plays earlier. Also, Butler well surpasses other well-known defensive backs when it comes to doing interviews.
I join the many who questioned Seattle’s play calling at that pivotal moment. With some time to think about it, though it was not as crucial, the Seahawks faced another gutsy move before halftime. Instead of taking the conservative route of settling for a field goal in the final seconds, Head Coach Pete Carroll rolled the figurative dice, went for the touchdown and struck gold. Instead of being down four points, Seattle knotted the game at intermission and took the lead early in the third quarter.
All of this to say, the difference between being the goat and the hero has a miniscule criteria.
A friend recently posted: “It is always the person not in the predicament who knows what ought to have been done in it.” -Charles Dickens
- Russell Wilson shows character in loss
I’ve shared how I am impressed with Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson. He boldly professes his Christian faith. He also demonstrates good sportsmanship and character when he loses.
“For me, I keep my head up though,” said Wilson. “I know that I prepare and I know I get ready. I know I play my heart out and I know the rest of the guys play their heart out. So when you do that, you can’t worry about it too much. You just have to focus on what you can do to keep everybody together in terms of mentally and spiritually with it, and just keep staying after it.”
- The demise of ‘Deflate-gate’?
Now that the New England Patriots are Super Bowl champions, what will become of their fate involving “Deflate-gate”? From the looks of things, most have given the Pats a pass. Perhaps it was “overblown.”
My guess is if the NFL does not make a statement about the Patriots’ footballs within a week, this will be swept under the rug. Our fickle society may not think any more about it.
However, from an overall operation aspect, my guess is the Patriots will be under the proverbial microscope for a long time. It may be over for now, but only time will tell if this issue comes back to haunt them.