Better Than I Deserve

A cheap life

"There is a common, worldly kind of Christianity in this day, which many have, and think they have enough – a cheap Christianity which offends nobody, and requires no sacrifice – which costs nothing, and is worth nothing. " -J.C. Ryle (Holiness, Baker, 1979, p. 204.)

In Junior High, I was given an opportunity to make and present a video for my class about the French and Indian War or write a report on the subject. The obvious choice was to have fun and act in a fun video than do actual research, so my group chose that option. I have to write about the experience because it changed my life forever.

I used a VHS camcorder, red food coloring, BB guns, and some cheap suit coats from Goodwill. My classmates acted out their parts as indians and soldiers; we actually had some action and narration. I was so proud then, but looking back- the video was so cheesy! (I think I only got a B- on it.) But this was no family video. It was not for personal amusement. It was my first time holding a video camera in a situation where I was in charge of a creative production. After that day, I began experimenting with the camcorder making short films- sometimes several times a day. I was every character from every movie I loved, then my own characters- though the common storylines were driven by cheap and violent action sequences. (I'm sure my mom wondered why our family went through ketchup so fast) Each spontaneous creation was a delight to show my friends and family. I remember actually mixing a tape when I was 14, using the Mission Impossible soundtrack. I had to cue my video up to the right spot, and then play the tape and movie simultaneously for the music to match the action. Since those days, I have had the privilege of using video on variety of projects for Grace E-free's children's ministry, promoting church events, and enhancing video news at Des Moines Area Community college's student newspaper.

Here is a compilation video I threw together in 2007 from some of my earlier videos:

I am starting film school in about a month for the purpose of learning how to make quality films. I want to be able to pursue any job related to the film industry.

Last year, while thinking about future job possibilities and whether I would attend Full Sail University, it was hard not to imagine the best. The average income of a film director is between $40-$100 thousand a year- those who can produce blockbusters have fame, money, and cool cars. It seems silly, but I wanted that. I wanted the best life here on earth for myself and my family. The ideal house. The best car. College funds for my future kids. My own film studio. Professional video equipment for my church. These are not necessarily bad things- but my motivation was personal happiness, and I know better than that.

You see, something happened to me years ago, and I will never be the same. More important than the day I shot my first movie is the day I was rescued from the bonds of sin and death. When I put my faith in Christ, I agreed to be purchased by his blood and live under his direction. I was a dead man walking, without any hope of life with God, but he died on a cross for me and took the punishment for my sins. Then he offered this hope to me that I could never deserve, and I traded in a cheap life for one that requires so much more of me, but one that gives me the greatest of blessings. I am in a personal relationship with the Creator of the Universe who is to be praised forever. Yet, even with this immense realization I find myself tempted by the things of this world; by a cheaper imitation of life.

"You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."
-1 Corinthians 6:19b-20

I was bought at a price, and now my existence is for serving the One who gave everything for me. I believe we are to use our spiritual gifts, talents, and experiences to magnify the God's glory in everything we do. Why would I want to go back to the way things were? It would mean exchanging eternal riches for trickets that will one day burn. I will pursue film because I enjoy it and can point people to God, but no matter what occupation I have, no matter where I am, no matter who I am around- everything I say and do is a reflection of my Savior's triumph over death. My life should shine like the stars in the sky!  Hold me to it. Expect this from me. My Jesus most certainly will.