Sheri McConnell: March 2007

Thursday, March 22

Amazing Grace ...

oh how sweet the .... (sound) SIGHT. just a little spin off on the old hymn.

I went and saw the movie "Amazing Grace" www.amazinggracemovie.com monday afternoon. For those of you who know me, one of my favorite things to do is hit up an afternoon matinee solo like. I find it a way to disconnect from the day to day stuff. Of course depending on what movie I actually see determines the ways I actually really do disconnect but, I most definately have an ability to get thoroughly engrossed in a fantastic story plot and stellar acting! Then again I also (at times) just love to go to fluff movies for the sake of a good laugh - comedic silliness value.

Well, in between trying to run a few errands (ive been cooped up in my house all last week pretty much - cause of this sickness that doesn't want to depart). I found myself in a local mall in Burbank - walking by the theatre and landed up right on time to check out the listings. I actually hesitated initially thinking I would rather hit up a brainless flick ... and honestly, most "christian" movies have elements of less than professional - low grade art. I find myself cringing through parts and thinking, now again I can see why we get mocked for our attempts at creativity. So, needless to say - I was somewhat wondering if this would be a waste of $8. In a last ditch decision (pretty much all the other movies had started) I thought what the heck "go for it". I grabbed a bit of popcorn and bottled water and found myself right in the middle of a smattering of people.


I really enjoy 'period pieces' not just for a story line but, the scenery and in a sense romantisized sense of adventure I very easily fall into. 'Pride and Prejudice' for example is a classic example for me in this.


The story begins. It is about a passionate young man named William Wilberforce, a British Abolitionist who burns with conviction for justice ... finds himself in increased influence within the british parliament yet, very simply and so profound to me early on in his life in his pursuit of justice towards the abolition of the slave trade wrestles with it best pursued through a single minded devotion to a calling of faith and ministry or political activeness? He loved nature, he loved animals ... he reminded me of my studys of St. Francis and the simplicity of life. He lived above (not in piety) the pulls of every day society - He was consumed and burning with passion for his mission. That was his sole focus. So much so, his friends had to help turn his face towards the possibility of marriage (which he really had no time for) but, eventually found a truly suitable "partner" in every way towards the cause of justice. From what I saw portrayed, a formidable force in that day.


Through a series of events he decides to walk his influence out with the political systems of the day and never lose sight of his love of the divine -true faith. So beautiful. He battled physical weakness ...tiredness...a long history of sickness yet, this did not hold him back. He was able to enjoy the blessing of a family and finally did win in his fight towards the abolition of slavery. He then went on to fight for many other causes right until his death.


This story so gripped me! Purely from an artistic eye - it was beautiful and done with excellency. No cheesy film quality here. Even the journey of the creation of this great old hymn was so fascinating!! The life of Albert Finney (creator of this hymn) is also portrayed in this movie with incredible 'grace' and honesty.


This historical story is so inspiring - I highly recommend worth seeing to all!


"Amazing Grace how sweet the sound who saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but, now am found. Was blind but, now I see." -Albert Finney
Sheri at 10:05 AM
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Monday, March 12

ENCOUNTER

I came home from Canada late last wednesday night. and right off the top have to say - my trip was flippin' phenomenal! In some ways it went way too fast and I wish that I was still there. and then of course in other ways, it is good to be home. I really miss Bailey (my lil' bichon) when Im away and in my travels have picked up some nasty virus. Im so sick right now ...hackhack...iiiiccckkkk....head...nose....throat.

I was invited to speak at the annual Senior High Wknd. hosted by Full Gospel Bible College in good ole' gopher worshipping Eston, SK. Believe it or not ...these are my old stomping grounds. Eston and I go waaaay back. I graduated from this College and have such a love for many friends who I find in those hallways to this day.

Senior High Wknd. is the College's recruitment wknd. and I have to say they do a F I N E job in making it a fantastic time for all! Good job all you out there!! Needless, to say I found myself with a mixture of excitement and yet nervousness all in one. I think the anticipation of seeing many people who I respect, like and some love dearly. A coming together of a variety of worlds for me-that is for sure! There were about 250 senior highers, 100+ college students, faculty, youth leaders/pastors ....etc. What a party!

So many laughs and crazy honest conversation with loved friends and peers. [love it] a reconnecting of souls in some senses. and then i made a few new friends - who i really believe are a beautiful gift from the Father. I love these kind of "Jesus connects". It felt good to be "home" in a way ...where it feels safe to just BE ME. Often times I think that we don't even realize that until we find ourself back in the midst of it.

From a Kingdom ministry perspective. OFF THE FREAKIN' CHARTS! seriously. I've only been hearing great reports back! 15-20 students made first time decisions to follow Jesus. Many many youth were getting stuff sorted, getting things right with Jesus and with others. Vision was being stirred. Healing was happening, deliverance was being encountered. all in all the KINGDOM OF GOD was BREAKING IN! Even now I am hearing stories of how students are fasting and seeking the Lord from the wknd. to find practical ways to discover mercy, pursue compassion and the justice of God in their spheres of influence. To discover their poor. Three nights in a row many of us were up to the wee hours of the morning just 'doin the stuff'. so good. soo good.

Thank you Jesus for showing up and makin it so real cause YOU ARE REAL!

I was speaking with one of my best friends today [teresa trask] and she articulated something to me which really stuck. She said "Sher, it sounds like the Lord was creating space for you to just BE YOU". It really struck me. Yes! Father ...THANKYOU. a precious gift just for my heart and much needed i might add.

I am sure that I could say so much more. But, I will leave it as this.
Those of you who read this and were there ... know that our time together were sovereign moments in time and that it is only the beginnings of so much more Kingdom.
Keep firing out the communicato -don't be strangers.
Let's hold together for those things we know are true and real.
Go and discover YOUR TRIBE. Ones you will give your life for to pursue faith, freedom and hope. Not just for yourselves -but for OTHERS!

Kingdom Encounter for Kingdom Discovery.
A path of true adventure!!
Sheri at 8:01 PM
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