We’ve all got a little more time on our hands than expected lately, and TAB is hearing about lots of great options for Bible study, learning and fun. Here are a few ideas we wanted to share, starting with a unique nature documentary, “Night on Earth.”
Most nature documentaries film their animal subjects during the daytime. That way, the filmmaker can easily capture the unique characteristics and exquisite colors of the animals — and the viewer at home can follow the on-screen action without any confusion.
The new Netflix documentary “Night on Earth” turns this logic on its head, proving that a nature film shot in the dark can be just as entertaining.
The six-part original series uses the latest camera technology to record the actions of animals — lions and monkeys and everything in between — at night.
“Using new technology, we can see into the blackness to discover a hidden side [to the world],” the narrator tells us.
This documentary, though, is far more than a series filled with thermal images. Much of the documentary uses new low-light cameras that can film ultra-high definition in the dark, and in color. The result: stunning images of animals under the moonlight that (almost) appear as if they were filmed in sunlight.
We see lions hunt a cheetah. (The latter is just too fast.) We see lions hunt a giraffe. (It escapes too.) But not everything gets away. A mouse captures and kills a scorpion. (Honestly, I was just fine with that.)
“Night on Earth” gives us a peek at animals on the plains, in jungles, in cold environments, and deep in the sea.
It’s a unique celebration of God’s creation that will entertain you, yes, but also might lead you to worship and repeat the words of David: “On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate” (Psalm 145:50).
Here are a few more options worth checking out:
For adults and older children:
“Heavenquest: A Pilgrim’s Progress” (DVD, streaming) — It’s the backstory to John Bunyan’s classic story “The Pilgrim’s Progress” — and although not written by Bunyan himself, it’s a worthy companion. This 2019 film follows Evangelist as he travels from the evil Southern Kingdom to the peaceful Northern Kingdom. Along the way, he becomes a servant of the one true King. It contains inspiring allegory. Due to adult themes, this one may not be appropriate for young children. Unrated.
“Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” (DVD, streaming) — A journalist learns to forgive those closest to him after interviewing Fred Rogers of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The movie includes a magnificent performance by Tom Hanks, who plays Fred Rogers and perfectly copies his speech pattern and mannerisms. “Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” includes powerful lessons on kindness and forgiveness. It’s not 100 percent kid-friendly, but for older family members, it’s marvelous. The film has seven instances of mild language, none of it spoken by Rogers. Rated PG for some strong thematic material, a brief fight, and some mild language.
VidAngel is offering all its content free through at least March 29. This includes VidAngel’s original series “The Chosen” about the life of Jesus and his disciples, and “Dry Bar Comedy,” a standup comedy series featuring clean standup comedy.
For all ages:
Streaming Bible study resources — Your church may already provide a subscription to an online Bible study resource like RightNow Media, which offers a broad range of video-based Bible studies for adults and students, as well as content for kids. Many ministries are temporarily offering their content free to users now confined to their homes, so check websites of your favorites. For example. Ligonier Ministries is making its entire library free through the end of June. Find out more by clicking here. Share others with us at news@thealabamabaptist.org.
WMU is offering free missions discipleship resources for families. Every Wednesday at 2 p.m. Central time through the end of April, WMU children’s consultants Heather Keller and Zachariah Seanor will teach a GA and RA lesson on Facebook Live. Like WMU’s GA and RA Facebook pages and tune in to participate. More information and downloadable activities for children can do at home are accessible at wmu.com/children under “Free Missions Discipleship Resources.”
Minno is offering a free church-at-home experience for families, which includes music and Bible lesson videos ranging from 5-minute daily devotionals to longer videos from their collection. Included are “Buck Denver Asks What’s in the Bible?” a journey-through-the Bible series by VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer. Access the free content at gominno.com/lp/church-at-home. (TAB contributed)
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