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‘The Star Thrower’ and the Difference You Can Make

In 1978, author Loren Eiseley published an essay called “The Star Thrower.” It recounts a beach walk by a narrator...

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42: The Inspirational Story of Baseball Pioneer Jackie Robinson

Posted on by Anne A. Simpkinson

In 1947, there were 16 teams and 400 players in Major League Baseball. 399 of those players were white; one was black. 42 is the inspiring true story of that one black player, Jackie Robinson, who broke through the color barrier with courage, stubbornness, self-control, talent and faith.

Prior to ’47, blacks played professional baseball but were relegated to the Negro leagues. Jackie Robinson was offered the opportunity to move up to The Show by Brooklyn Dodgers owner Branch Rickey (played by Harrison Ford in the movie)—a move that sent shockwaves not only through the sport but through the culture as well.

The film traces Robinson’s relatively brief minor league career and his initial season in the majors, focusing primarily on the intense racial hatred and bigotry he encountered in the clubhouse, on the field and in his life. The movie offers up example after example of the physical and psychological intimidation he encountered, ranging from humiliating slights such as being bumped off a flight to threats against his life.

Perhaps the heart of the movie is the scene in which Phillies manager Ben Chapman (Alan Tudyk) hurls epithets and racial slurs at Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) when he’s at bat. The vitriol riles Jackie, as intended, and he flies out. Barely containing his fury, he walks back to the underground alley between the dugout and the clubhouse where he lets fly his anger and frustration. Enter Branch Rickey who encourages him to turn the other cheek. “We need you to win,” he says, appealing not only to the man of faith but to the competitive and talented baseball player.

The movie also explores why Rickey would want to kick up such controversy by breaking the color line. At first, he demurs, talking about how it’s not an issue of black vs. white, but the fact that “every dollar is green.” Of course, we later find out that there’s a deeper and more humane reason that he’s willing to endure the firestorm of racism he’s ignited. There’s something troubling him, something on his conscience that he wants to rectify through giving Robinson the chance to play in the big leagues.

Robinson was a pioneer, not a saint. He was a gifted baseball player who would not “go away,” would not be denied the opportunity to play at the highest level. The impact of Robinson’s accomplishment is telegraphed not too subtly in the film by the triumphant swelling of the music track in far too many scenes. Still 42 is an inspiring film because it reminds us of the power one individual can have to create major societal change.

Warner Bros., the studio who produced the film, has also built a website especially for pastors and ministry leaders. Focusing on the role of faith in the life of Jackie Robinson, it provides sermon notes, ministry resources, and film clips for educational activities.

So whether you’re a fan of America’s favorite pastime or not, go see 42. You’ll be shocked and embarrassed by the bigotry, yet inspired by the man who stood firm on his dignity and his faith and grew into a true hero.

3 Days in Kaua’i: A Spiritual Travel Adventure

Posted on by Brooke Obie

More than 2,500 miles off the coast of California is the awe-inspiring island of Kaua’i, Hawai’i.

Boasting lush, majestic mountains, clear blue waters and one of the most famous and pristine coastlines in the world, Kauai’s wondrous natural beauty demands attention, stillness and gratitude. It’s the perfect place to find spiritual solace.

After a very long flight into Kapa’a from the mainland, I spent my first day in Kaua’i at the aptly named Grand Hyatt resort. Not only is it the largest resort on the island, it’s ANARA Spa is an incredible facility. A lomi lomi (healing hands) massage in an outdoor private cabana with classical sounds of Kaua’i playing in the background was just what I needed to get my mind body relaxed and ready to experience all that the island had to offer.

My first adventure was sailing and snorkeling with Kauai Sea Tours’ Catamaran tour along the Nā Pali Coast. Instantly recognizable for its deeply ridged green and red mountains, cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and azure blue waves, the Nā Pali Coast can only be experienced by helicopter or boat (though parts are accessible on some hikes). The Catamaran tour got me pretty close to the coast and sliding down the Catamaran boat’s water slide into the ocean to begin my snorkeling adventure was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip.

BOOK A TRIP TO SUNNY PORTUGAL WITH GUIDEPOSTS

The Catamaran was topped on day 2 by Island Helicopter’s tour. Leaving from the main airport, Island Helicopter takes passengers over the island in 90 minutes, including Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) and the Nā Pali Coast, which are jaw-dropping from above. But what sets Island Helicopters apart from all other helicopter tours on the island is that it lands at the base of the twin waterfalls made famous in the opening credits of Jurassic Park. Passengers hike a short distance to Jurassic Falls, take photos and try not to get drenched while drinking in the thrilling experience that is likely to be a trip favorite.

If helicopter tours are not your style, there are still plenty of activities and waterfalls to explore. With Princeville Ranch Adventures, you can ride horseback through the jungle and have lunch and a leisurely swim near a waterfall on the ranch’s 2,500-acre property.

I stayed at the Westin in Princeville on the North Shore, which was close to all of these activities. Perfect for families or groups for short or longer stays, the Westin resort offers full-kitchen suites so you can grocery stop in nearby Hanalei. One of my favorite meals on Kaua’i was just up the road from the Westin at the St. Regis resort. Every evening, the St. Regis offers a champagne toast for dining room guests who can watch the sun set from its stunning balcony.

While Day 3 in Kauai was significantly less action-packed, it was my favorite day. Getting out of tourist mode, I met and talked with locals at a famous little church in Hanalei, Wai’oli Hui’ia Church. Built by American Christian missionaries in 1834, the church initially banned the native Hawaiian practice of hula as pagan. The Hawaiian language was banned on the islands after the Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown in 1893. Wai’oli Hui’ia Church is contributing to efforts taking place across Hawai’i in the past few decades to revitalize Hawaiian language and culture. They now incorporate hula into worship services and sing hymns in Hawaiian. I visited Wai’oli Hui’ia on a Wednesday night during choir rehearsal and interviewed their choir director, Naomi Yokotake. One of her family members has lead the choir there for uninterrupted generations of the church’s history. Naomi shared how important it is that their pastor, Kahu Alpha Goto, wanted them to honor their culture and share their history by dancing Christian hula. (Check out our interview here.)

READ MORE: 5 WAYS TO HEAL IN GUANACASTE, COSTA RICA

To top it all off, the church’s wonderful pianist and her choir member husband invited me to dinner at their house and let me nap there while I waited for my long flight out–a gesture so lovely and so full of Aloha that when I boarded my plane, I felt like I was leaving home instead of returning to it.

One of the greatest ways to connect with God is to simply open your eyes. All of the people He placed in front of me on this trip made my experience exponentially better and full of peace and joy. Beautiful people, an incredible place and a willing spirit are the perfect ingredients for a true encounter with God away from home. –Brooke Obie, Senior Digital Editor

Brooke Obie visited Kaua’i courtesy of the Kaua’i Visitors Bureau. The places and activities featured are her favorite experiences from the trip.

31 Classic Movies to Watch in April on TCM

Posted on by Brett Leveridge

This month, Turner Classic Movies is holding its annual 31 Days of Oscar festival, but this year, there’s a twist: TCM is featuring more than 350 films that were Oscar-nominated, as they usually do, but they’re airing them in alphabetical order, A to Z.

We’ve decided to offer our own take on 31 Days of Oscar: We’ve picked one TCM offering for each day in April (plus the 1st of May), so here are 31 movies we think you’ll enjoy that are airing on Turner Classic Movies (TCM) in April 2021.

’23 Blast’: Tackles Faith on the Gridiron [REVIEW]

Posted on by Jessica Toomer

23 Blast is the latest faith-based sports drama to hit the big screen. The film, inspired by real-life events, follows the story of Travis Freeman, a high school football star from a small town in Kentucky who saw his life come to a screeching halt after an eye infection permanently stole his sight. What followed was a story of courage, faith, friendship and the will to overcome that will leave audiences inspired long after they’ve left the theater.

The movie, directed by Dylan Baker and starring Mark Hapka, Alexa Vega and Bram Hoover—who helped pen the script—achieves this goal despite lacking some of the benefits of other sports-themed films with big studio backings. Don’t worry: there’s plenty of football to love in this film—down-to-the-wire motivational speeches, Hail Mary plays and tough-as-nails coaches all make an appearance when the camera’s focused on the field.

But what makes 23 Blast really stand out is the commitment of its lead actors and their obvious investment in doing justice to the real Travis Freeman’s tale. Hoover, the actor who plays Freeman’s troubled, heart-breaking best friend, Jerry Baker, hails from the same town as Freeman and admitted he felt the pressure when co-writing and starring in his friend’s incredible story. “There’s a greater responsibility when you’re telling a true story,” Hoover told Guideposts.org at the movie’s premiere. “There is a lot more responsibility to tell things the right way.”

Hapka took on that responsibility with a humbled sense of determination in his portrayal of Freeman. Carrying the film on his shoulders, the audience journeys with Hapka as he transforms from popular school athlete to disabled recluse and, eventually, hometown hero; his performance is comical and often tear-jerking, as it should be.

Vega gives the film heart, playing Freeman’s best friend Ashley, whose goal of getting her friend to push past his disability and get back out on the gridiron is one you’ll root for. The director’s wife, the fantastic Becky Ann Baker, also makes an appearance in the film as Freeman’s mobility coach who doles out tough love and compassionate encouragement in equal measure.

For his part, Freeman acknowledged that while the film does take certain liberties with his story, it does a good job of sending his desired message. “It’s not the Travis Freeman story, but it is a movie inspired by events in my life,” Freeman told Guideposts.org.

The film stays true in its depiction of the importance of Freeman’s faith-life, because “It’s a huge part of Travis’s life,” Hoover shared.  “It’s the thing that kept him going. God had a plan for Travis so we definitely wanted to show that in the film.”

Freeman, who makes an appearance in the film, is happy with the result. “It really does a great job of capturing the spirit behind my story.”

It’s that spirit that Hapka predicts will stick with people after the credits roll. “I hope that people who are having hardships in their own lives, that have their own limits that they put on themselves, whether it’s because of a disability or whatever, that it helps put things in perspective,” Hapka said. “I hope that they leave motivated.”

23 Blast is out in theaters now. 

22 Classic Movies to Watch in March on TCM

Posted on by Brett Leveridge

While we’re still being asked to isolate at home for our own sake and the safety of others, a classic motion picture is the perfect way to spend a late winter or early spring evening. From thrillers and mysteries to popular, award-winning musicals, here are 22 movies we think you’ll enjoy that are airing on Turner Classic Movies in March 2021.

21 Classic Films to Watch on TCM in November 2021

Posted on by Brett Leveridge

With colder weather upon us and the holidays just around the corner, an evening of classic movies with the family is just the ticket. Here are 21 movies airing on Turner Classic Movies this month that you’ll want to watch (or record for later viewing).

20 Favorite ‘Guideposts Classics’ Stories

Posted on by The Editors

As Guideposts celebrates its 75th anniversary, here are 20 classic stories from inspiring authors, actors, astronauts, singers and broadcasters that have proven to be reader favorites over the years.

Corrie ten Boom on Forgiveness
In this story from 1972, the author of The Hiding Place recalls forgiving a guard at the concentration camp where her sister died.

Ernest Borgnine’s Inspiring Good Friday Vision
The acclaimed actor recalls a divine vision he received while filming a scene for Franco Zeffirelli’s acclaimed 1977 miniseries Jesus of Nazareth.

Al Roker on the Miracle of Childbirth
The Today co-anchor shares that he and his wife, who very much wanted to have a baby, relied on faith and hope to see them through what would be an emotional and spiritual journey.

Tim Conway on Answered Prayer
The beloved funnyman shares a tale of childhood faith and answered prayer in a story he wrote for Guideposts in 2007.

Robert Duvall on Faith and Inspiration
The Oscar winner reveals how playing a preacher in the 1997 film The Apostle impacted his spiritual life.

Perry Como on Faith, Family and Prayer
In this story from 1953, the crooner and television star reveals how important faith was to his life and his career.

Michael Landon on God’s Blessings
The award-winning actor and director shares how he came to understand that he had a special talent–and it wasn’t acting.

When Buzz Aldrin Took Communion on the Moon
In a story published just over a year after he walked on the moon, the Apollo 11 astronaut reveals that the first liquid poured and the first food eaten on the moon were communion elements.

Ray Bradbury on Celebrating God’s Gifts
The accomplished science fiction author shares how an encounter with a sideshow performer convinced him to embrace the gifts God had given him.

Fred Rogers on a Grandfather’s Love
Television’s “Mr. Rogers” recalls the man who helped him believe in himself in this story from 1980.

Doris Day Finds Harmony in Faith
In 1958, with her career at its peak, the actress, singer and animal-rights activist shared the sense of calm that faith brought to her life.

Beverly Garland on Faith Conquering Fear
Actress Beverly Garland shares a quote that taught her the importance of faith and self-assurance.

Paul Harvey on Submitting to God
One of America’s best-loved broadcasters shares the discovery that made his life complete.

Jimmy Stewart on ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
The two-time Oscar winner takes us behind the scenes of perhaps the most beloved Christmas movie of all time, 41 years after its initial release.

Agnes Moorehead on Why She Read the Bible
In 1965, when she was a regular on the popular series Bewitched, the Emmy-winning actress revealed the importance of the Holy Book to her life and her career.

Andy Griffith on God’s Grace
The beloved actor shares how he came to rely on God’s grace and the love of his wife as he battled a mysterious illness.

Danny Thomas on Prayer and Promises
In this story from May 1981, the actor and comedian recalls how an answered prayer led him to found Saint Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Johnny Cash on Overcoming Addiction
The country music legend recalls his struggle with drugs—and the Bible verse that inspired his recovery—in this story from 1970.

Luciano Pavarotti on Making the Most of God’s Gifts
The world-renowned tenor shares how he came to embrace the gift God had given him.

Gloria Gaynor on Finding Faith
In this story from 1998, the two-time Grammy winner shares how, though she had achieved great success in her career, there was something missing until she learned who Jesus really was.

For more inspiring stories, subscribe to Guideposts magazine.

15 Fun and Festive Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

Posted on by Kaylin Kaupish

Whether you’re hosting dinner and want to add something new, or you’re invited to a celebration and want to bring a side dish that gets all the guests talking, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of unique recipes – some from celebrities like Ina Garten, host of Barefoot Contessa – will liven up your Thanksgiving table! Try them out and share some of your special recipes with us.

13 Inspiring Movies, TV Shows and Performances Nominated for a Golden Globe

Posted on by jtoomer

The 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards highlight some of the most inspiring movies, TV series and performances from this past year. Tearjerking family dramas, war heroes, magical musicals, brilliant mathematicians and even an alien arrival — they’re all on the nominee list. Here’s a breakdown of the series, films and performances that took our breath away and left us feeling inspired.

12 Prayer Labyrinths from Around the World

Posted on by Kaylin Kaupish

Labyrinths have been used as a prayer tool by Christians for hundreds of years, since they emerged in churches in the twelfth century. Unlike mazes, a labyrinth’s shape has a distinct beginning and end—a path that leads towards the center, then back out again. People use labyrinths to guide their prayers or meditations as they walk, to help them with reflection and spiritual healing. Labyrinths are found all around the world, in parks, churches, hospitals, universities, and more. Here are a few of the most beautiful ones…

12 Best Advent Movies to Get You in the Holiday Spirit

Posted on by Kaylin Kaupish

As the weather gets colder, curling up on the couch with some hot cocoa and a good movie can be a great way to get in the Christmas spirit. And the Advent season (the weeks leading up to Christmas) is the perfect time to watch them. Because each week of Advent has a different theme—hope, love, joy, and peace—you can choose your holiday movie every week based on the theme! Here are the best Advent movies to watch this holiday season.

READ MORE: Advent Candles and Holders Perfect for the Advent Season

Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.

Advent Movies About Hope

Emilia Clark and Henry Golding in Last Christmas an advent movieLast Christmas (2019)

After surviving a life-threatening illness, Kate—a once aspiring singer—feels hopeless, working a dead-end job as an elf at a Christmas shop. Then she meets a happy-go-lucky man named Tom, who is determined to show her why life is meant to be lived. Rated PG-13, Last Christmas stars Emilia Clark, Henry Golding, Emma Thompson, and Michelle Yeoh. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

White Christmas (1954)

Two soldiers-turned-performers named Bob and Phil are on a mission to bring hope to their old commander, Major General Thomas F. Waverly. With the help of a sister act named Betty and Judy, the four performers set out to put on a Christmas show and save the Major General’s failing Vermont Inn. This romantic musical stars Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

The Holiday (2006)

Iris from London and Amanda from Los Angeles are two women at the end of their ropes, so they decide to switch homes for the Christmas season. Then things get complicated when they each meet a local man who sweeps them off their feet. Will Iris and Amanda get some newfound hope during their holidays? The Holiday is rated PG-13 and stars Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, and Jack Black. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

READ MORE: 10 Interesting Advent Facts That You May Not Know

Advent Movies About Peace

Scene from A Charlie Brown Christmas as an advent movieA Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

This classic Christmas short never gets old. Charlie Brown finds himself depressed as the holiday season approaches. So, he takes over as director for the Christmas play, hoping the job will bring him some peace and cheer. But are plays, presents and shiny trees really what Christmas is all about? A Charlie Brown Christmas (rated G) stars the cast of the Peanuts and is based on the comic strip by Charles M. Schulz. Available on Apple TV.

The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)

Learn the true story behind one of the most classic Christmas stories of all time. Charles Dickens is a struggling writer who needs to write his next best-selling book to avoid financial ruin. As ideas come to him through the real world, his fantasy world filled with vibrant characters comes to life as well. Will Charles finish his book, A Christmas Carol, and finally know some peace? The Man Who Invented Christmas (rated PG) stars Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer, and Jonathan Pryce. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

The Snowman (1982)

Settle into your couch and take in the gorgeous animation and soothing music of this peaceful Christmas film. A young boy wakes up one morning to freshly fallen snow and spends his day building a snowman. Then that night, his snowman comes to life and takes him on an unforgettable journey through the sky. The Snowman is rated G and a re-released version of the film includes an opening narration by David Bowie. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

READ MORE: A One-Word Christmas Prayer for Inner Peace

Advent Movies About Joy

Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn Star in Netflix's The Christmas Chronicles 2 an advent movieThe Christmas Chronicles 1 & 2 (2018 & 2020)

Go on two fun-filled journeys with the first and second Christmas Chronicles movies. The first follows brother and sister Teddy and Kate as they try to capture Santa Claus on film. The second continues with Kate, now a cynical teenager, as she goes on a new adventure with her mother’s boyfriend’s son, Jack. The Christmas Chronicle films (rated PG) star Darby Camp, Judah Lewis, Jahzir Bruno, and Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn as Mr. And Mrs. Claus. Available on Netflix.

READ MORE: Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn Talk About Believing in Santa

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

“Every Who down in Whoville liked Christmas a lot. But the Grinch who lived just North of Whoville did not…” See the Dr. Seuss classic like never before with this hilarious film directed by Ron Howard. The Grinch hates Christmas so much, that a small Who girl is determined to help him feel some joy during the holiday. This film is rated PG and stars Jim Carrey as The Grinch himself! Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

Elf (2003)

Nothing says joy like a Christmas elf, and there’s no elf more joyous than Buddy. After learning that he is actually human, Buddy travels from his home in the North Pole to New York City to meet his real father. Will his dad accept Buddy’s quirky ways? Will Buddy be able to get his dad to truly enjoy the Christmas season? Elf is rated PG and stars Will Ferrell, James Caan, and Zooey Deschanel. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

Advent Movies About Love

Denzel Washington in The Preacher's Wife an advent filmThe Preacher’s Wife (1996)

Henry is a husband, father, and pastor who is trying to help his community in New York City and save his church from financial ruin. But as he tries to help everyone, Henry neglects his son and wife, Julia. After praying to God, Henry meets a charming angel named Dudley. Will Dudley be able to help the family get closer, or will his growing feelings for Julia get in the way? This Penny Marshall classic is rated PG and stars Denzel Washington, Whitney Houston, and Courtney B. Vance. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

Love Actually (2003)

This Christmas romantic comedy follows people all over the city of London, navigating the many tribulations of love and marriage. As the movie says in its opening, “If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaky feeling you’ll find that love actually is all around.” Love Actually is rated R and has an all-star cast, including Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightly, and more! Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

Little Women (2019)

Find the true meaning of sisterly love in this film based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic book. The four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Amy, and Beth—each have their own dreams and desires, but it’s always family that they return to when life gets hard. Greta Gerwig’s heartwarming film (rated PG) stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Timothée Chalamet, Laura Dern, and Meryl Streep. Rent or Buy at Amazon.com

What Advent movies will you and your family be watching this holiday season?

READ MORE: What Is the Meaning of Advent?