Besides attending church over the Easter weekend, we caught the new movie release with Mark Wahlberg and Mel Gibson called, Father Stu. It is a true story about a Stuart Long, and I highly recommend it.
The story is inspirational, and its message reminds us that God can use all of us, no matter how messed up or broken. Stu is always striving to find something big in his life. He boxed until he was injured, and then he got the idea he would become a movie star in Hollywood. He lived in Montana at the time, but he drove out with just a few clothes and enthusiasm.
You quickly learn that Stu doesn’t do anything half way. No, he goes all in! I admired that from the get go, even though what he was trying to do was insane. He meets a Catholic girl, and he wants to date her. Originally, that is his motivation for going to church, but God had other plans.
Stu is lost with a drinking problem and bad temper, both of which got him into jail on more than one occasion. He came from a broken home where his parents were numb from the death of Stu’s little brother. Things go from bad to worse when Stu crashes his motorcycle. He should have died, but he didn’t.
At this point, he was in classes to convert and become a Catholic. He always had genuine questions and was a hand full for the teachers. Yet, his spirit was stirring. Both the Mother Mary and Jesus spoke to him, saying he lived because he had a purpose: to become a Priest. He embarks on that journey despite the hurdles. Remember, he goes all in! His girl friend is shocked by his decision, and well, his family thinks he’s gone off the deep end.
As he devours the word of God and allows the love of God to enter his heart, he is changed. Just when he is about ready to become a Priest, he learns the devastating news that he has an incurable disease. I’ll let you watch the rest of the movie because you have to see it, hear it and feel it. The emotions are high, but the hope is strong. He doesn’t give up but instead says, “Don’t pray for an easier life but the strength needed for a difficult one.”
I laughed and cried…a lot. I wasn’t the only one. I heard sobs from some people, and I praised God for such a heart-warming, faith-based movie touching people’s lives. What better time to release this than Easter weekend! Jesus died for every single one of us, and because of Him, we are set free for eternal life.
His love shouldn’t stop with us, and like Stu, we should have a burning passion to tell others: You ARE loved! Besides all the ministry Stu conducted on behalf of God and the church, his own family was influenced and changed by his faith. Let us remember that there are those who are desperately seeking something better, but they may not know what it is or where to find it. BE that witness; BE that light and share the hope that is found is Jesus Christ. Help them understand that they, too, are loved by God.
This movie removes any doubt that any of us can be used for God’s work, no matter our condition physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually. We simply must be willing and open. Is God knocking at your heart’s door? Is He prompting you to get involved in a ministry or outreach? Perhaps a coach can help you discover your God-given talents and abilities and help you find a place to serve. I’m not just a professional and business coach but also a life and wellness coach certified in spiritual behavior and gifts. Let’s chat!
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