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posted by Daniel on 01/8/07

Set in the time of history surrounding Jesus’ life and ministry, The Robe is a story of Marcellus, the Tribune who Pilate commanded to carry out the crucifixion. This incredibly detailed novel is definitely ranked high among my favorite books.

Ever since the dreadful day of Jesus’ death, Marcellus was deeply disturbed with a conviction mysteriously linked with the robe. Yet, through his experiences with Justus, the stories he hears of Jesus, and finally an eye-witness account, he is slowly converted to Christianity. Yet it is not easy for a Roman Tribune to profess belief in Jesus without consequence. Eventually it comes to a conscious decision before all of Rome, the Emperor, and God!

5 Comments » | posted in Book Reports

posted by Jonathan on 01/8/07

Today David and I decided that it would be really exciting to dress up like knights. So we got a lot of cardboard and made helmets, shields, a battleaxe and a spear. Then we went downstairs and pretended to fight a great big battle! In the fighting that ensued, David got wounded but I came and rescued him right before the bad guys took the city. Then David and I assembled a huge army and recaptured it for ever. Creativity sure is better than being a couch potato!

7 Comments » | posted in The Bright Side

posted by James on 01/5/07

Christmas is one of the most enjoyable and challenging seasons to photograph. The feelings of peace, coziness, anticipation, and reverence are the invisible impressions I strive to create in my final works of art. This rarely comes by accident but is achieved through experience, forethought, and creative deliberation. Here are the highlights of Christmas 2006.

This Christmas tree is situated very stately before our living room fire place. The stone hearth, warm fire, and illuminated Christmas decorations enhance the splendor of the shining spruce tree. A narrow aperture and thus an extremely long shutter speed culminate in a comely composition.

There are many perspectives to the age-old and well loved manger scene. Rather than using the harsh exterior light of flash or strobe, I resorted to the warmth and softness of candle light to produce a traditional image telling the story of Gods great love and sacrifice. Everyone is there, from parents and wise men to shepherds and their flocks. A star of light was deliberately placed above Jesus’ head to add an implied message of life and meaning.

Here is the same manger scene, just a different perspective. Looking now from the interior of the stable, we now get the impression of closeness and a greater sense of admiration and reverence. The highlights and shadows play an important role in this picture.

Contrast is the key to this image. You can not easily see the house but its outline is visible because of the Christmas lights. What greater comparison is there that shows the contrast of a Christians light to the darkness of the world? Decorating our home with this symbolism has been a Christmas tradition for as long as I can remember.

This is a very simple composition but was fun to put together. The swirls of blue light on the surface of the blue bulb go together very well. Again, a narrow aperture, long shutter speed and a tripod were needed to make the light bulbs as a starburst.

Last but not least is another manger scene. This one is very simple. The procession of wise men and the informality of the shepherd with his flock make for a friendly and cozy representation of that special night. As I was still using candle light, it was difficult to keep the shadows from becoming too confusing. Instead, the shadow arrangement enhances the simplicity.

3 Comments » | posted in Photography

posted by Robert on 01/3/07

Today I flew up to Chicago, where I’ll be serving with IBLP this year. Though it is tough to be leaving my family and putting my business on hold for a while, I know the Lord is leading in this direction and I’m excited about the opportunities to serve Him through this ministry!

The theme verse that our family has had over the past month has meant a lot to me during this time: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)

I appreciate your prayers and will try to keep you updated on the exciting things that the Lord does over this next year. Keep seeking first His Kingdom!

7 Comments » | posted in Ministry Reports

posted by James on 01/2/07

This Christmas is one I hope never to forget! Everyone was here, from David to Donald to Dad. No one was missing. Even Grandma and Grandpa Brannon were able to spend the whole day with us.

Mom and Dad really went out of their way to surprise us too.  They purchased very useful gifts which we as a family will be able use throughout the entire year. From pencils and head lamps to several books and over 30 hours worth of messages on DVD, there was something for everyone. We will be learning all sorts of things about entrepreneurship, ancient history, prayer, Christianity in China, vocabulary, and much more! 

Mom and Dad really went out of their way to surprise us too.  They purchaced very usuful gifts which we as a family will be able use throughout the entire year. From pencils and head lamps to several books and over 30 hours worth of messages on DVD, there was something for everyone. We will be learning all sorts of things about entrepreneurship, ancient history, prayer, Christianity in China, vocabulary, and much more! 

As the photographer of the family, I had a fun time capturing the expressions of surprise and gratefulness. For me, this year’s Christmas was a meaningful time to witness the love that each family member has for each other and for Jesus Christ! 

3 Comments » | posted in Family News