Volume One, Issue 21 December 13, 2021

We desire to see everyone living in a healthy relationship with the Lord.

Joanna Snow Ministries is located in Downtown Mobile, and we love it!

It is that time of the year! Christmas shows are taking over primetime, and families might possibly gather around the television to stream their traditional Christmas favorites.

Now, I feel I should tell you that I don't watch a lot of movies. And I don't watch Hallmark. So I will probably be leaving out quite a few choices. This list is in no way complete, but I'll do my best. If you have any suggestions, please drop them in the comments below.

Best Black and White: It's a Wonderful Life. I was an adult before I watched George Bailey battle the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune and win under one unfortunate circumstance after another. Released in 1946, it's amazingly not dated, focusing on themes of love, family, and greed. George is a good guy who, near the end, sees himself as useless and better off dead. Then, finally, God sends him an angel who helps him see clearly. Discouraged George desperately needed a change of perspective, and he got one just in time.

Best Cartoon: A Charlie Brown Christmas. With apologies to Dr. Seuess' How The Grinch Stole Christmas (also a great Christmas offering), A Charlie Brown Christmas is one of the few programs that includes actual scripture. When Charlie Brown wails in frustration, "Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?!?" Linus steps into the spotlight and quotes from the book of Luke, recounting the birth of Jesus, our savior. 

Best Claymation: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. This may be the first Christmas movie I remember watching. No, it doesn't talk about the Baby Jesus. But I think I like it so much because it was a traditional must-watch when I was growing up. And that was during the days of no recording or skipping commercials. Instead, we got the TV Guide and made sure we were ready when it came on.

Best Comedy: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. You may best view this one after the magic of editing to remove some unnecessary vulgar language. But in this movie, through pratfalls and low comedy, Clark learns that Christmas gatherings don't have to be perfect. Even if lights don't work, trees catch fire, and dinner is overcooked, it is good to have family and friends around to enjoy the holiday.

Best Of this Century so Far: Elf. Yes, this one is very secular. There's no mention of Jesus at all. But I do love to watch Walter's hard heart melt and choose family over money. Buddy is very excited about all things Christmas, and I find it to be contagious. It's a happy movie that encourages spreading Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear. And, Bob Newheart is Papa Elf. Come on. 

Most Overrated: A Christmas Story. Please don't shoot my eye out! I know some people swear by this movie. The ugly lamp is everywhere, and cable channels play this movie on repeat Christmas Day. I've seen it only once, but there weren't enough laughs or meaningful moments to keep my attention.

One I've Never Seen but Want To: Miracle on 34th Street (1947) There was a remake of this one in 1994, but I haven't seen that one, either. Maybe I can mark this one off my list this Christmas.

Did I miss the mark on some of these? Do you have a movie or a category you'd like to add? Please drop a comment below. We would love to hear what you think!

And, as you enter this Christmas season, be careful not to get overwhelmed with busyness. Instead, gather some people around you, make some Christmas snacks, and watch a good movie. If it isn't already one of your traditions, maybe it should be.