| I received that video as well. Mine did not come in the mail, but was hung on the front door of my home in a bag that not only contained the video, but a bag of microwave popcorn as well. This is part of a nationwide project that is attempting to get the video into every home in America. According to their web site, www.Jesusvideo.org, over six million of these videos have been distributed to date. If you haven't received the video, you can also view it on their web site if you have the right plug-in and at least a 28.8 modem. The project started in 1992 and their first distribution was in early 1993. The videos are made available to church organizations, community groups, and private contributors for $5.00 each. According to their web site, one man even paid to have the video mailed to every home in his state. The opening credits of the movie indicate that it is based entirely on the book of Luke in the New Testament. It covers the life of Jesus from conception, to crucifixion, to assention into heaven. As a movie, I found it to be rushed and disjointed. To be fair, this might be due in part to the fact that this is a special edition print and it has been edited down to 83 minutes from the original movie and these problems may be the result of that editing. But I still found the acting to be flat and one-dimensional. As an inspirational work, I felt it fell short there as well. Brian Deacon, who plays the part of Jesus, came off more like a cult leader than the Son of God. (Please keep in mind that I am only referring to the movie and I don't mean to imply in any way, shape, or form that Jesus was a cult leader. So please don't send me any angry replies.) On the whole, the movie never rose above the level of one of those "The Story of Jesus" books for children. The movie ends with what we referred to as an "altar call" in the church I attended as a child. It is basically an invitation to pray and to accept Jesus Christ as your savior. They even provide a suggested prayer. But, if you will forgive the cliche, I think they are preaching to the choir. If you are already a follower of Christ, you'll probably enjoy the movie. If not, there isn't much here that you probably haven't seen or heard before. I was raised in what is called a "Holiness" church. That is to say a church that believes in the Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While I no longer attend, I still respect these beliefs whether I agree with them or not. So I also respect the good intentions of those responsible for distributing this tape. At least no one came knocking on my door trying to force their views down my throat and I didn't have to get out of the tub to answer the phone. It was simply delivered and left up to me if I wanted to view it or throw it out. So, while it may have offended some who are not of the Christian faith, it was less bothersome than the average telemarketer and their motives were certainly more altruistic. And even if someone who is not of the Christian faith was disturbed by this distribution, perhaps it reminded them to spend a little time reflecting upon their own beliefs whatever they may be. And in the words of Martha Stewart, "That's a good thing."
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