If your mind was a home, would you choose to live there? If your thoughts were visitors, would you let them in? Who would you ignore? Who would never make it through the door? 

Our brains are great at telling stories, again and again. Not all of them are helpful or true. We tend to stress over tomorrow or ruminate on yesterday, rehashing old arguments, fearing the hypothetical, obsessing over things that are out of our control. But it does not have to be this way. You can make your mind a better place in which to live. 

Recently, a friend of mine sent me a song by Ellie Holcomb. The words hit me like a flood of light into a dark, lonely room:

“Where can I go from Your Spirit? 
Where can I go from Your presence? 
If I go up to the heavens, You are there 
If I make my bed in the depths, You are there!”

These lyrics come straight from the Psalms, a book of songs and poetry in the Bible. This one says that God is everywhere, all the time. His presence is not restricted to a single place or state of mind. He is with me at church; He is with me at soccer training; He is with me on the drive to work. God is here when I am at my best, when I am my worst- and He is everywhere in between. He does not change and He never leaves. I knew this, cognitively, but my body had forgotten how close and how kind God really is. So, He used a song to remind me. 

There is a song in the Psalms for every situation: grief, joy, anger, gratitude, confusion—you name it. 

Several months ago, I sat down at the piano, feeling rejected after an awkward conversation. I opened my Bible to Psalm 57 and started singing the words.

“Be merciful to me, O God! 
Be merciful
For in You my soul takes refuge
In the shadow of Your wings
I will take refuge
‘Til the storms of destruction pass by.”

Within minutes, my heart was soothed.  

Another night, I found myself in a panic: tight chest, anxious mind. I picked up my guitar and started to sing Psalm 27: 

“The Lord is my light and my salvation: 
whom shall I fear? 
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?”

That night, I sang and sang and sang and each word drove the fear further away. 

Another day, a Psalm caught me mid-spiral. I was feeling frustrated when a song from the Psalms started playing in the back of my mind. It felt like an invisible hand slowly turned up the music until my anger subsided. 

When we feel frozen, frazzled or frightened, music cuts through the fog in a way that words alone cannot. It is tempting to turn to temporary fixes when life becomes unbearable. We can numb ourselves by scrolling through our phones, swallowing whatever the algorithm offers. Some of us overwork, others overeat, others oversleep or rely on other vices. We have a cornucopia of distractions at our fingertips, ready to alleviate our suffering. But where do we go when the numbness fades and the ache returns? 

The Bible is not an anesthetic. The Psalms do not shy away from pain. These songs cut right into the human heart, their words full of questions, complaints and desperate cries. They are also full of gratitude and beauty. There is no shallow comfort here, only rich, hard-earned hope and tear-stained cheeks. God gives us joy through the ache, instead of an escape.

Some of my dearest friendships have been deepened through conflict and hard conversations. The Psalms constantly teach me how to talk with God like a friend. They give me words to pray when I do not have any of my own. Many were written to be sung, not read. I love reading the Psalms but singing them weaves each word right into the fabric of my mind. 

The first chapter in the Psalms promises a blessing to anyone who delights in God’s instruction, thinking about it “day and night”. That person will become like a tree planted by rivers of water that produces fruit in its season. Its leaves will not wither and whatever he does will prosper. That is a bold claim to make right at the start of the book—one worth testing out. 

Does your life feel dry? Fruitless? Like you are withering away? Get a Bible, choose a section and chew on it for a while. Let it run through your mind, again and again. The Psalms are a great place to start, they are honest and hopeful, rich in comfort. I cannot think of anything better to have stuck in my head. 

Article supplied with thanks to Signs Of the Times

Kemy Ogendi wries from Central Australia. She is currently working on a handful of music projects in Alice Springs, one including several Psalms. You can listen to her music here.

Feature image: Supplied

Choosing Books That Meet You Where You Are…

As an avid reader, I often catch myself scrolling through articles suggesting what I should read next:
“Top 10 books everyone must read,”
“Classics you can’t miss,”
“Books that will change your life.”

However, I sometimes find myself struggling to get into the book at that time, or not quite connecting to the characters. I’m sure you’ve also had the experience of picking up a highly recommended book and finding it hard to read, emotionally flat, or even overwhelming. I have been reflecting on this process for a while now, and I don’t think this means the book is bad, and it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with me or you! It may simply mean that the book doesn’t fit where we are right now.

Reading is definitely not a neutral activity. When we open a book, we enter into a relationship with it. Books ask things of us: attention, imagination, emotional openness, and sometimes the willingness to sit with complexity or pain. Choosing a book thoughtfully can be a gentle way of practising self-reflection and self-attunement.

So I have decided that this year, rather than asking “What’s a good book?”, it might be more helpful to ask: “What kind of book would support me at this current moment in my life?”

Reading with emotional awareness

Before choosing your next book, I would therefore like to suggest taking a moment to pause and reflect on a few simple questions first.

1. How much capacity do I have right now?

Some books require emotional stamina. While others are more restful.

You might ask yourself:

• Am I feeling overwhelmed or fairly resourced?
• Do I have space for emotional depth and complexity?
• Am I tired, grieving, stressed, or seeking comfort?

When our capacity is low, a demanding or emotionally heavy book can feel like too much, even if we would enjoy it at another time.

2. What emotional tone am I able to sit with?

Instead of focusing on genre or ratings, rather consider the feel of a book.

Do I want something that feels:

• Gentle or reassuring?
• Absorbing and immersive?
• Dark but meaningful?
• Hopeful or light?
• Reflective and slow?

The descriptions or reader tags (like those on Goodreads and The StoryGraph) are helpful here, but because they give a descriptive sense of the emotional weather of a book.

3. What do I need from reading right now?

Different books offer different kinds of nourishment and can help fill up our cup in different ways.

You might be looking for:

• Company — feeling less alone with your inner world
• Escape — a break from your own concerns
• Meaning — reflection, insight, or coherence
• Soothing — something calming and predictable
• Stretch — a gentle challenge or new perspective

There’s no “right” reason to read. Needs change, and so can reading choices. Attuning to your needs more intentionally can help you find a book that is a better fit.

4. Do I want familiarity or something new?

At times we long for:

• familiar themes
• a known author’s voice
• a sense of safety and predictability

At other times, we may feel ready for:

• new perspectives
• ambiguity and questions
• emotional or intellectual challenge

Both of these focuses are valid. Paying attention to this can prevent unnecessary frustration or self-criticism when you just can’t finish a book!

5. Permission to stop

One of the kindest things you can give yourself as a reader is permission to stop reading a book that no longer feels right. Putting a book down is not a failure. It may simply mean that this book doesn’t meet you where you are right now. You can always return to it later (or not at all!).

Reading as self-attunement

Choosing books in this more emotionally attuned way mirrors a broader emotional skill of noticing your internal state and responding with care. Just as we learn to pace ourselves emotionally, we can also learn to pace our reading lives. When we choose books with this kind of awareness, reading becomes less about achievement and more about our relationship with the story and with ourselves. In this way, reading becomes a quiet way of listening to ourselves.

In therapy, we often notice that the stories, books and poems people are drawn to can reflect emotional needs, unanswered questions, or a longing for understanding and connection. Bibliotherapy is one way of working with this process more intentionally, using books and stories to support self-awareness, emotional regulation, and meaning-making. If you’re curious about how therapy might help you better understand your inner world, develop greater self-attunement, or find steadier ways of caring for your wellbeing, you’re very welcome to enquire about seeing one of the psychologists here at The Centre for Effective Living. We’d be glad to explore what support might be most helpful for you.

Feature image: Canva

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

William Shakespeare’s legend is almost as enthralling as his extensive work as one of the world’s most prolific and famous playwrights. Novelist Maggie O’Farrell taps into the family’s mythology with her 2020 book that addresses the grief experienced after the tragic death of their 11-year-old son Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe). Her fictional account unpacks the world the family lived in as Shakespeare developed his career in London during this era. 

Academy Award-winning writer/director Chloé Zhao (Nomadland) explores the beautiful and heartbreaking relationship between William (Paul Mescal) and Agnes (Jessie Buckley) in Shakespeare’s work. Despite opposition from their families, the pair developed a bond that endured through the trials and tribulations of that era. As their three children were born, Agnes worked to keep the family together as William worked in London at the Globe Theatre. The love shared by the couple and their children buoyed them through life until Hamnet died from plague. An event that drove a wedge through each familial relationship while inspiring William to write one of the most celebrated stage productions of all time. This homage to his son would prove to be a salve for the grief experienced by all of the family and allows the Shakespeares’ son to live on throughout history.

Jessie Buckley proves that she is one of the best actresses of this generation with a multi-layered, emotionally charged performance that sets a standard for all who come after her. Paul Mescal continues to grow from strength to strength as he humbly embodies the famed bard, but his work pales in comparison to that of his co-star. Yet, as the relationship unfolds with minimal dialogue and physical intensity, Chloé Zhao proves why she is a celebrated director, drawing outstanding acting from every cast member. Despite the minimalist setting that is best when it ventures into the surrounding wilderness, the attention remains on the central cast. Emily Watson proves her value as support, and each child provides the poignant components to showcase why Maggie O’Farrell’s story is brought to cinematic life. 

Hamnet is affecting, visceral, and long-lasting. The closing scene should be studied as a lesson in filmmaking that brings together the brilliant writing, acting and emotion. Fictional or real, this tale of a mother’s grief will wrap around your soul and tap into feelings that have lain dormant for years that need to be released from the locked rooms of the heart.

Reel Dialogue: We All Mourn Differently

“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” 1 Corinthians 15:55

You may have thought these words were penned by William Shakespeare, but it might surprise you to know that they can be found in the Bible. 

Death can be a sombre topic and should be handled respectfully. Still, it can also provide discussions of hope and assurance. Especially when Jesus is incorporated into the discussion, because through his story, he can prove that death does not have to be something to fear. 

Through Jesus’s work, His followers can be assured of where they will spend eternity, and this can provide hope for their future. He is the conqueror of death and gives an answer to the inevitable question, ‘What happens after we die?’ It is a better answer than any tree monster, other religion, or philosophy can offer. 

Passages to consider on the topic: Matthew 10:28, John 11:25, John 14:1-3

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Marty Reisman was considered one of the most recognisable table tennis players in history. A champion, an Olympic medal winner and consummate showman in the American traditional hardbat style of the game. Yet most people have never heard of him, except that writer/director Josh Safdie (Uncut Gems) saw enough in this unique athlete’s life to loosely base his film on it.

Marty Mauser (Timothée Chalamet) is a hustler with one goal: to become the world table tennis champion in the 1950s. Nicknamed Marty Supreme, his charismatic personality and evident skill with the ping-pong paddle got him to Europe to face the world’s best in the game. In his wake, he has left Rachel Mizler (Odessa A’zion) and wealthy, retired actress and socialite Kay Stone (Gwyneth Paltrow) to pursue his quest for fame and fortune. Yet upon returning home to New York, the realities of his choices leave Marty to decide what to do with the mess he left behind.

Not since Forrest Gump has so much attention been given to the world of table tennis. Josh Safdie and Timothée Chalamet’s production puts enough backspin on Marty Reisman’s story to make you yearn to know what’s going to happen to this train wreck. A character who draws you into the story like any good hustler with his charisma and charm, but once you’re in, you quickly determine that you’ve been swindled. Initially, things seem like a tale of inspiration and overcoming the odds to achieve greatness, until this young man proves to be the most narcissistic and unappealing character in cinema.

This is not to deny the production quality, as each cast member gives their best to invest in their roles, which centre on a ping-pong-playing egoist. Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Kevin O’Leary, and Tyler Okonma come along for this less-than-inspirational sporting story as they support Timothée Chalamet’s commanding performance. His commitment to learning the sport and playing was captivating. Still, there is hope that the story will deliver a forehand that propels this story arc back into something to be redeemed or edifying, but like any hustle, most parties involved are left with nothing of value in the end. A tale that has so much going on, outstanding efforts from all involved, but little to say and even less to celebrate as the credits roll.

Marty Supreme serves up a story of a young athlete with focus and drive, then delivers a topspin that leaves the audience feeling cheated by a hustle they didn’t expect or want. The quality of the film is undeniable, but the end result lobs the most insipid and selfish character of the year on screen. Not sure this is the legacy Marty Reisman would hope would be spun about his life.

What Do You Do With Selfishness?

Once the paddles had been laid on the table, the film left us with a discussion of selfishness, but, as mentioned before, there were surprising key attributes of some characters. As they were being set up for celebration, one attribute of their human character stood out. The reality of Marty Mauser’s life was that he had a strong personal drive that caused tension in all his relationships.

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others – Philippians 2:3-4 (NASB)

In this passage from a letter from the Apostle Paul, he compares selfishness to “empty conceit.” Selfishness can also be translated as vanity, arrogance, or merely having an overly high opinion of oneself. The opposite of selfishness is found in another letter from the writer of much of the New Testament, Philippians. He says that being united with Christ, having tenderness and compassion, being like-minded, having the same love, and being one in spirit and purpose is where you can find the solution to selfishness.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Women’s boxing can split the room among sports fans when it comes to the entertainment value it offers in the world of hand-to-hand combat. Yet if one woman were at the forefront of this sport and set the standard, it would go on to deliver for its fans, as Christy Salters (Sydney Sweeney) did. Animal Kingdom writer and director David Michôd brings the boxer’s story to the big screen, showing how fame and fortune can come with a cost, even when the athlete loves what they do.

Christy Salters grew up in Itmann, West Virginia, in the 1980s, and discovered she had a gift for boxing. Her skills catch the attention of a local promoter, who suggests she consider training under James Martin (Ben Foster), who sees the potential in this untrained fighter. As Christy trains and rises in the ranks of the burgeoning female boxing community, she must wrestle with her sexual identity and decide if she should get in a romantic relationship with her trainer. Once she gets the attention of mega-promoter Don King (Chad L. Coleman), the boxer’s career and the niche market for women’s boxing begin to take off. As her star rises, the champion starts to see that her husband/trainer is holding her back from her potential and her secret personal desires.

Sydney Sweeney delivers a career-best performance that plays against standard glamorous roles for which she is known. The Euphoria actress puts in the necessary hard yards as a boxer to be convincing in the boxing silks. She taps into the darker side of Christy Salters’ life, and her unexpected co-dependency on her abusive husband is played with disturbing effectiveness by Ben Foster. Their journey makes for compelling cinema for those fascinated by this sector of boxing and the history Salters played in getting women’s boxing on the map.

Unfortunately, the film’s biggest weakness is the personal character of Christy Salters. Understandably, her family history, the nature of the sport and her closeted sexuality play a contributing factor in her personality and demeanour. Still, as numerous characters in the film mention, she is hard to like. Despite Sydney Sweeney’s best efforts, there is little to like about the boxer, and the film’s attempts to make her story sympathetic and engaging fall short. In the end, Christy feels like a gut-punch at every turn of this story. Admittedly, she developed a resolve that can be otherworldly at times; this can’t make up for her lack of appeal as a person or as the central character of a movie.

Pride Causes A Knock-Out Punch

As this film unfolds, a familiar phrase will play in the minds of anyone who has watched the boxing pre-fight ritual. Christy Salters is the epitome of someone whose own hubris has taken over her life. Not that anyone deserves to be abused or rejected by their family. Still, her story proves that no one seems immune to the reality of the proverb, regardless of how successful life may be for the individual.

Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall. – Proverbs 16:18 (NLT)

Many may not know that this is a Biblical concept and that it lies at the root of mankind’s original sin. Every person, barring one, in history has or will succumb to this nasty human trait that remains at the heart of all of humanity’s failings. This metaphor for the human condition proves that pride is the problem in the story and that the escape from this vicious counterpart can only be found outside of ourselves. Even though the disastrous nature of pride is introduced in the Bible, this book also provides the means of escaping its influence. Humility is the antithesis of the vicious cycle of pride, exemplified by the person of Jesus.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition [rivalry] or conceit” – Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied

The cinematic landscape of 2025 has been a testament to Hollywood’s resilience. Following the aftermath of last year’s strikes, studios faced a noticeable hobbling in producing content, leading to some challenging seasons.

Yet, amidst this new reality, several films have truly stood out—both on the big screen and at home.

The Changing Tides Of Hollywood

As we eagerly await the full repercussions of the Netflix/Warner Bros. merger, the industry’s release strategy is clearly in flux. This year confirmed that the best cinematic experiences are no longer confined to one platform: Some of our top-rated films were found on streaming services. The cinema, however, still provided many excellent and memorable offerings.

Reel Dialogue’s Best Of 2025

While we wait for a few more end-of-season releases, the Reel Dialogue team is excited to share our favorites of the year and the best films in specific, crucial categories:

Blockbusters

The biggest, most spectacle-filled films that caught our eye the box office.

Family Films

The movies that captured the imaginations of all ages and provided perfect family viewing.

Films For Faith & Conversation

The stories that most effectively start a ‘Reel Dialogue’ about film, faith, and meaning. We look forward to sparking a great conversation with you.

Reel Dialogue’s Blockbuster Favourites Of 2025 (Not In Any Order)

• Hamnet
• F1 – The Movie
• Black Bag
• Wake up Dead Man
• Zootopia 2
• Train Dreams
• Predator: Badlands
• Roofman
• A House of Dynamite
• The Ballad of Wallis Island
• Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
• The Count of Monte Cristo

Best Family Films

• Zootopia 2
• The Bad Guys 2
• Kangaroo
• The Fantastic Four: First Steps
• Elio
• How to Train Your Dragon (2025)
• David

Best Films For Reel Dialogue Conversations

• Wake up Dead Man
• Hamnet
• The Life of Chuck
• The Unbreakable Boy
• Tinā
• The First Hymn
• Train Dreams

Did we miss any? Send us your thoughts… Who knows we might even add it into our list (or not).

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied

And how Three Wise Men and A Baby Breaks the Mould

The Christmas movie has become its own cosy little universe: twinkling lights, small towns, meet-cutes in snowstorms, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Viewers know exactly what they’re signing up for – and they love it.

But every now and then, a film comes along that keeps all the heart and comfort of the well-loved formula… while quietly bending the rules.

That’s where Three Wise Men and A Baby shines.

This film doesn’t just slip into the same old Christmas movie line-up – it stands out with a sharp, witty script, genuinely layered character arcs, and a rare, male-led emotional story that feels both fresh and deeply heartfelt.

The Classic Christmas Formula (and Why We Love It)

Before we talk about how THREE WISE MEN AND A BABY breaks the mould, it’s worth acknowledging why traditional Christmas movies have done so well over the years:

• A familiar structure: A big-city professional comes home, meets someone special, and rediscovers what really matters.
• A cosy setting: Snow-covered streets, decorated town squares, Christmas markets, and family homes filled with fairy lights.
• Emotional safety: No matter the obstacles, viewers know things will work out. Heartache is temporary; love and hope win.

This predictability isn’t a flaw – it’s part of the appeal. For many, Christmas movies are a seasonal comfort blanket.

But with so many films following a similar pattern, it takes something special for one title to truly stand out.

Enter Three Wise Men and A Baby: Same Heart, New Shape

On paper, Three Wise Men and A Baby sounds simple: three brothers are unexpectedly tasked with caring for an abandoned baby in the lead-up to Christmas. But instead of centring a romantic storyline, the film leans into family, brotherhood, and personal growth.

Right away, that’s a significant shift:

The primary relationship is between the brothers, not a couple.

The baby isn’t just a “cute prop” – he’s the catalyst for every emotional breakthrough.

Romance exists, but it’s not the only or even the main point of the story.

This reorientation gives the film a fresh energy. It still feels warm, festive and uplifting – but the emotional core is different and, in many ways, more surprising.

A Witty Script That Actually Makes You Laugh Out Loud

Christmas movies are known for sweet dialogue and heartfelt lines, but Three Wise Men and A Baby goes further with a script that leans confidently into comedy.

You get:

Quick-fire banter between the brothers, full of dry humour and sibling sarcasm.

Physical comedy, from chaotic nappy changes to sleep-deprived mishaps.

Self-aware moments that gently poke fun at the situation without ever mocking the genre.

The humour feels organic to the characters rather than tacked on. These aren’t perfect, polished heroes; they’re slightly messy, frequently overwhelmed, and often hilariously out of their depth.

That balance – heartfelt story plus genuinely funny writing – is one of the reasons you’ll keep coming back to this film, even when you already know what happens.

Character Arcs with Real Depth (Not Just Seasonal Sparkle)

One of the most impressive things about Three Wise Men and A Baby is how much character growth it packs into a light, festive story.

Each brother starts from a place of personal struggle:

• One is emotionally guarded or burnt out.
• Another might be stuck in a rut or feeling like a failure.
• Another is trying to prove they’re responsible and capable.

Caring for the baby forces them to confront those issues -not in a heavy-handed way, but through small, meaningful moments:

• Late-night feeds that turn into honest conversations.
• Frustrating mishaps that reveal old wounds between the brothers.
• Tiny victories (like successfully getting the baby to sleep) that build confidence and connection.

By the end of the film, it’s not just the Christmas tree that’s transformed – they are. And crucially, their growth feels earned:

They fail sometimes.

They argue.

They own up to past mistakes.

That level of emotional nuance isn’t always present in lighter holiday fare, and it’s a big part of why Three Wise Men and A Baby feels so satisfying.

A Male-Led Emotional Story: A Refreshing Shift in Perspective

Perhaps the most groundbreaking element of Three Wise Men and a Baby is how unapologetically it centres men having feelings – and doing so in a way that’s tender, vulnerable, and still funny.

In many rom-com movies, male characters are there to support the heroine’s journey. Here, the men are the emotional core:

• They wrestle with identity, expectations, and their place in the family.
• They learn to communicate better with each other.
• They’re given full permission to be nurturing, soft, and protective – without losing their humour or individuality.

The film normalises:

• Men bonding over caring for a child.
• Men admitting they’re scared or unsure.
• Men showing love through everyday actions, not just grand gestures.

In a genre that often leans on familiar gender dynamics, this is a quiet but powerful evolution. A Christmas movie can tell emotionally rich stories from different angles, without losing the cosy charm audiences love.

Same Familiar Heart – Just a Brighter Glow

For all the ways Three Wise Men and A Baby breaks the mould, it never forgets where it comes from:

• There’s still Christmas magic: lights, decorations, festive events.
• There’s still comfort: you know things will work out, even in the chaos.
• There’s still love: romantic, familial, and community love all woven into the story.

What makes this movie special is that it proves something important about the Christmas movie universe:

You can evolve the formula without losing the heart.

By blending a witty script, rich character arcs, and a male-led emotional journey,  Three Wise Men and A Baby shows that Christmas movies can be familiar and fresh at the same time – and that there’s plenty of room under the mistletoe for new kinds of stories.

Article supplied with thanks to GOOD.

About the Author: Sharon Fitness is a movie buff, foodie, dog lover and tv fan.

Feature image: Supplied (Publicity Image Supplied and Used With Permission)

Romance? Check. Minimal drama? Check. Christmas? Check.

Need I say more? Mary-Anne O’Connor has written my perfect novel!

Christmas Joy introduces us to a young woman, Miss Joy Parker, who has a vibrant, contagious love for life. 

Everywhere she goes, Joy exudes kindness and generosity and suffice to say, when Christmas time comes around it lifts her spirits even higher.

While she may not have much in the way of material possessions and wealth, and even though her employer seems determined to try and steal her sparkle, Joy doesn’t let that get her down as she continues to care for those less fortunate than herself.

Things take a turn for Joy when she is introduced to the new Earl of the village, and she finds herself pulled into the world of debutante balls, gossip, and scandal.

Will Joy be able to stay true to herself and her family values, or will she be caught up in the drama of high-end society and royalty, especially when the heart gets involved?

In a world where discouragement can easily creep in, having something festive and wholesome to get lost in is very important, and Mary-Anne O’Connor gives us that gift within these pages.

I highly recommend adding this to your Christmas reading list, or gift it to someone you know who loves getting lost in all-things-romance! It is an easy read that will leave you encouraged to step out and give to others, whilst taking note of all the wonderful things happening around you.

Psalm 118:24 (ESV) – This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

For combining all the elements I love in one package, I give this book 5 stars.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Publicity Image Used With Permission

A musical, animated adventure for the whole family!

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5)

When it comes to Biblical figures, after Jesus and Moses, the most recognised and celebrated individual would have to be David. His story is one of legend, and people of two faiths look upon it to this day with special admiration. Angel Studios has leaned into this hero of the faith by following up their recent Young David series with a unique musical take on the warrior king. 

Based on the accounts in the books of Samuel, David (Brandon Engman/Phil Wickham) is introduced as the youngest son of Jesse, a shepherd who was unexpectedly anointed as the next king of Israel. He becomes a folk hero for bringing down the Philistine champion, Goliath (Kamran Nikhad). Yet, as he grows in stature and legend, he fights and sings his way into history as the man after God’s own heart.

For fans of the Young David series and those who cherish films like The Prince of Egypt, David will satisfy your need for Biblical historical entertainment. Directors Phil Cunninham and Brent Dawes lead a team of animators who deliver a beautiful canvas to depict this season of the young hero’s life. For those who know David’s background, he was one of the biblical characters known for his musical prowess and strong leadership skills. This component of his background makes him a natural choice for a musical telling of his life. Songs and numbers that complement the storyline and will appeal to all who have enjoyed Disney’s retelling of classic tales, with notable musical scores to bring these characters to life. 

Actual theologians and even the armchair variety may take some issues with the timelines and accuracy of David’s years. While this may only be a short portion of his life, there are some noticeable exclusions and artistic license taken to move things along for the sake of a musical narrative. Still, none is offensive enough to detract from the Biblical messaging being offered to audiences through this animated adventure. People should encourage people to study the accounts of David, Saul and his family for themselves as they listen to the soundtrack in the background. 

David is a beautifully told account of one of Israel’s most celebrated kings and a hero of the faith. The animation is on par with any major film studio, and the musical score will provide excellent options for families on the ride home from the cinema. An animated account of history that is worth discovering for yourself in the words of the Bible to see the truly amazing story of this shepherd king’s life. 

What Should Parents Know About David?

Like The Prince of Egypt, this musical account adds an artistic spin on a familiar and celebrated Bible character. Go for the entertainment and then don’t miss out on the conversations that are to follow. By leaning into the story of courage, family, and commitment to God, this movie stands out as unlike any other animated film of recent memory. 

Why? Because it is based on a real historical figure, albeit imperfect, who is worth studying and knowing more about the God he served. 

Acts 13:22 – “After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ 

Where can you find the story of David?: 1 SAMUEL & 2 SAMUEL

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied

Where life is flawless and the drama is low-calorie.

When people choose films like A Little Women’s Christmas, they are looking for sweetness, a touch of hope, and to escape the realities of the real world. This upcoming release is a contemporary, faith-based reimagining of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved classic novel. A streamlined and glossy rendition that could be described as vigorously heartwarming. This retelling looks like those beautiful Christmas cards that depict this season as saccharine-sweet and will appeal to the devoted fans of this genre.

In this modern version, Jo March (Jillian Murray) is a celebrated children’s author who is attempting to rebrand as a Young Adult writer. She is challenged to go home to Tennessee for the holidays, hoping to be inspired by her family. In this world, there are fewer flaws and more perfect settings for love to flourish and for each sister to succeed. Meg, Beth, Amy and their friend Laurie are all there in an atmosphere where everyone gets their Christmas wish.

Not to say there isn’t romantic tension; this narrative element comes in the form of Jo’s editor, Fritz (Trevor Donovan), who is meant to babysit the author until she completes the book. The predictable but necessary twist is that he lies about his identity, pretending to be a travel writer. A story that is reminiscent of smelling Christmas cookies being baked in Grandma’s oven. That sweet aroma comes only this time of year, and the charm of these baked goods might make you forget about the woes of the world for a time, as romance and Christmas carols get added to the mix.

A Little Women’s Christmas is one more modern reworking of the March sisters’ lives and relationships. While they struggle without ever really tipping into genuine despair, the familiarity will appeal to those looking for the saccharine-sweet truth of the genre. In this world, where everyone’s skin is flawless, everyone has the perfect wardrobe, and no one seems to have ever worried about the credit card bill that inevitably comes in January. The rendition of Alcott’s classic tale offers viewers an escapist fantasy, polishing the rough edges to give it that idyllic Christmas shine.

Can We Find Faith at Christmas Time?

A Little Women’s Christmas is set in the world of faith-based themes. As the bond between the sisters is framed as a spiritual “cord of four strands,” their local community outreach genuinely depicts the Christian heritage behind the holiday celebrations. Unlike many Christmas movies that lean into gift-giving and Santa Claus, this story provides a wholesome choice for viewers to actively seek out the message of Christmas.

Does Jesus get a mention? Not overtly, except in song and church references. Still, this Christmas romance allows the audience to suspend reality and simply relax. This film takes a classic story, wraps it in the most beautiful of Christmas papers imaginable, and hands it to you with a big bow.

Don’t let this aspect distract you. For this, we recommend looking for the true meaning of Christmas by engaging with the stories of Jesus’ birth in Luke.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Feature image: Supplied