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  • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Rewind

    Last year at Christmas time, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever came out in the movie theatres. I booked my tickets and brought my family to go see the movie and I absolutely loved it! I walked out thinking, “Finally, a Christmas movie that actually tells the Christmas story!” This year, it’s available to rent or own on Amazon Prime, and yes, I bought it immediately. If you’re looking for a film that’s fun for kids, meaningful for adults, and centered on Jesus, this one is a must-watch. Given how much I liked this movie and now that Christmas is coming up, I wanted to add this one to my blog and put together a family friendly bible study/ devotional for you to do.

    The story kicks off with the infamous Herdman family. These kids are the definition of chaos—they steal, lie, fight, and even set fires. They really are a nuisance to the Emmanuel town. The parents are not around and the kids basically do whatever they want. Other children are scared of them, and adults don’t know what to do with them. They are the outcasts of the town. But then they discover the church serves snacks on Sundays. Free food? They’re in. And while they’re there, they overhear talk of the annual Christmas pageant. Naturally, they bully their way into all the lead roles. The congregation is horrified. The kids are furious. And poor Grace, who volunteered to direct after Mrs. Armstrong broke both her legs, is left wondering how she’ll survive this disaster.

    Here’s the twist: the Herdman’s don’t even know the Christmas story. Grace walks them through Luke 2:1–20, and their raw, unfiltered reactions are both hilarious and profound. They’re outraged that the innkeeper turned Mary and Joseph away. They’re baffled by the wisemen’s gifts. And for the first time, the congregation sees the nativity through fresh eyes—eyes that aren’t dulled by tradition but wide open to wonder.

    The pageant rehearsals didn’t go well and no one knows if the pageant is going to be any good this year. At the last minute the Herdman’s show up—and what happens next is unforgettable. Their touching gift of a ham for baby Jesus instead of gold, frankincense and myrrh shows real sacrifice. The way Imogene looks at Jesus and actually cries with tears rolling down her cheeks brings emotion to the play for the first time in 75 years. The Herdman’s made the Christmas pageant the best one ever!

    This movie isn’t just entertainment—it’s a reminder that Jesus came for everyone, even the outcasts, even the Herdman’s. It’s packed with scripture, overflowing with heart, and it leaves you remembering that Christ is the reason for the season.

    So here’s my invitation: after you watch the movie, gather your family and dive into the 5-day devotional Bible study I’ve put together. Reflect, discuss, and let this Christmas be one where Christ truly takes center stage.

    Merry Christmas—and may your celebrations be just as surprising, heartfelt, and joyful as the Herdman’s pageant.

    Feel free to print the devotional using the download above. If you would like to purchase the devotional, visit the below link for your copy!

    https://www.lulu.com/shop/brittany-mcgaffin/the-greatest-christmas-pageant-ever-5-day-family-devotional/paperback/product-zmwzgrg.html?page=1&pageSize=4

  • Ruth & Boaz – Rewind #2

    If you thought the book of Ruth was dramatic, wait until you see the movie’s second half. Love, faith, and legacy take center stage, and the sparks between Ruth and Boaz? Let’s just say the screenwriters turned up the heat. While the biblical account keeps things subtle, the film leans into the romance—cue longing glances, grape stomping, and a few heart-thumping obstacles.

    In scripture, Ruth and Boaz’s budding relationship is paused by a legal technicality: another relative has first dibs on redeeming Ruth. In the movie, it’s not a family formality but a fiery antagonist named Syrus, whose threats and shady dealings keep Ruth at arm’s length. Whether it’s a distant cousin or a dangerous manager, love has hurdles—but in both versions, love wins. Ruth and Boaz tie the knot, and the audience breathes a collective sigh of relief.

    Now, let’s talk drama. The movie throws in a barn fire that threatens Boaz’s prized wine. It looks like disaster, but somehow—miraculously—the wine isn’t ruined. It’s better. God’s work at his best! Then Syrus storms into Naomi’s house, threatening Ruth. But Naomi isn’t having it. She grabs a shotgun (yes, really), and the police arrive just in time to haul Syrus away. With the villain out of the picture and the wine saved, Ruth and Boaz finally get their moment.

    Back in the book of Ruth, Boaz plays it cool and honorable. He meets with the other relative, lays out the facts, and they seal the deal with a sandal exchange. Strange by today’s standards, but totally legit back then. With the path cleared, Ruth and Boaz marry—and this time, there’s a baby.

    Here’s where the legacy kicks in. The movie ends with Ruth becoming a successful singer and co-owner of R&B Winery. It’s a modern twist, but it skips a major biblical milestone: Ruth becomes the mother of Obed, grandfather of King David, and ancestor of Jesus Christ. Talk about a legacy. Ruth and Boaz weren’t just a love story—they were part of God’s redemptive plan for the world.

    So whether you’re watching the drama unfold on screen or reading the quiet power of scripture, the themes remain: love that overcomes, faith that endures, and a legacy that echoes through eternity.

    Want to dig deeper? Download the study and explore Ruth chapters 3 and 4 with us. Let’s uncover the beauty of this story—one sandal, one vineyard, and one divine thread at a time.

  • Ruth & Boaz – Rewind #1

    Tyler Perry has officially gone biblical—and I was all in! His new Netflix film Ruth & Boaz takes a bold swing at reimagining one of the most beloved stories in scripture, and while it doesn’t stick to the biblical script word-for-word, it still delivers a compelling tale that’s worth watching. If you’ve seen it, I hope it sparked your curiosity to dive into the actual book of Ruth. Spoiler alert: it’s only four chapters long, but it packs a punch. The book of Ruth is only 4 chapters long, but it is packed with some great themes that are relevant to our everyday lives. It starts with loss and grief and moves into the power of hard work! Then in the second part of the movie and book of Ruth you will see the themes of love, faith and legacy.

    I have broken the attached study guide into four sessions covering all of these topics. First let’s start out talking about the loss and grief that Naomi is feeling. Naomi loses her husband and two sons—heartbreak stacked on heartbreak. In the movie, the tragedy unfolds through a carjacking. In scripture, the details are left out, but the emotional weight is the same. Naomi decides to return home—Israel in the Bible, Tennessee in the movie—and she tells Ruth to stay behind. Ruth, of course, isn’t having it. She’s loyal, fierce, and full of faith. She clings to Naomi like a lifeline and sets out on a new journey.

    Now here’s where things get interesting. Ruth rolls up her sleeves and gets to work. In the Bible, she’s gleaning grain in Boaz’s field. In the movie, she’s harvesting grapes. Either way, she’s hustling. And Boaz? He notices. Cue the slow burn romance.

    But Perry adds a twist—Ruth’s got pipes. She’s a singer tangled up in a toxic contract with a manipulative manager. That’s part of why she leaves her old life behind. The Bible doesn’t mention karaoke nights or viral videos, but the movie uses those modern beats to show Ruth’s courage and her desire for something more.

    One standout scene? Ruth belts out a song at a bar with her friend Lena, and Boaz is there to catch the moment. Sparks fly. But fame has its price, and that karaoke clip ends up in the wrong hands. Trouble’s brewing.

    So yes, the movie takes creative liberties. But the heart of Ruth’s story—grief, grit, loyalty, and love—is still pulsing underneath. That’s why I’ve broken the study guide into four sessions, starting with the themes of loss and hard work from Ruth chapters 1 and 2.

    Ready to dig deeper? Download the study and explore how this ancient story still speaks today—even when it’s dressed up in modern drama and a killer soundtrack.

    More on love, faith, and legacy coming soon in part two.

  • Redeeming Love Rewind

    Redeeming Love is finally streaming on Netflix, and if you haven’t watched it yet… what are you waiting for? Based on Francine Rivers’ bestselling novel (which is based on the book of Hosea in the Bible—yes, you read that right), this movie is a triple-layered storytelling sundae: Bible → Book → Movie. And somehow, it works.

    I read the book a few years ago and was completely hooked. Like, cancel-my-plans, stay-up-too-late kind of hooked. And while I’ll always be Team Book-Is-Better, the movie does a beautiful job bringing the story to life. So, if you’re not ready to commit to the novel’s page count, the film is a solid place to start.

    Let’s get into the heart of it. Michael is a Christian farmer looking for a wife, and God tells him—wait for it—to marry a prostitute named Angel. Cue the drama. Angel’s past is painful, and she runs from Michael not once, not twice, but at least three times. And every time, Michael gives her the choice to come back. No ultimatums. No guilt trips. Just grace.

    Sound familiar? That’s our story with God. We mess up. We wander. We chase things that leave us empty. And yet, God keeps inviting us back. He doesn’t force us—He wants us to choose Him. That choice? It’s the most important one we’ll ever make.

    If you were shouting “Angel, just stay with him!” at your TV, you’re not alone. But her journey—and Michael’s relentless forgiveness—mirrors the story of Hosea and God’s love for Israel. It’s messy. It’s heartbreaking. And it’s full of mercy.

    Each time that Angel came back, after she cheated on Michael with his brother-in-law, went back to prostitution, he accepted her back. He even washed her feet after the first time she left and wasn’t wearing appropriate shoe attire. It’s raw. It’s humbling. It’s straight out of the Jesus playbook. Would you do that for someone who hurt you? Michael did. And God does—for us.

    Michael’s love isn’t just romantic—it’s redemptive. It’s the kind of love that forgives betrayal, welcomes the prodigal, and chooses mercy over revenge. That’s the love God offers us. And it’s the kind of love we’re called to offer others.

    So… when’s the last time you thanked God for His mercy and grace? And when’s the last time you showed that same grace to someone who didn’t deserve it?

    If Redeeming Love stirred something in you, don’t stop at the credits. Grab your Bible and flip to Hosea. It’s tucked in the middle—easy to miss, but packed with truth. It’s not just ancient history; it’s a mirror to our modern hearts.

    To help you dive in, I’ve put together a 4-day mini study focused on marriage, redemption, and the messy beauty of grace. It’s designed to help you reflect on your faith, your relationships, and the biblical truths woven into the movie. Francine Rivers gave us the novel. Hollywood gave us the film. Now let’s explore what God gave us in Hosea.

    Ready to unpack what’s biblical truth and what’s creative liberty? Let’s go.

  • For the One – Rewind #4

    If you’ve ever wondered what fuels Brandon Lake and Phil Wickham’s passion on stage, the final moments of For the One make it crystal clear. It’s not just about music—it’s about mission. As the concert wraps, Brandon steps up and delivers a powerful call to action. He invites the crowd to open their hearts to Jesus, leading them in a prayer to become new creations, leave behind the old, and follow Christ for life. It’s not just moving—it’s monumental.

    And the impact? Absolutely jaw-dropping. The film captures one concert, but behind the scenes, Brandon and Phil traveled to city after city, and thousands said yes to Jesus. Thousands. That’s not just a tour—it’s a revival.

    The movie seals this moment with a verse that hits home:

    Romans 10:9 (ESV)
    Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

    So let me ask—have you accepted Jesus? If not, why wait? Today could be your turning point.

    One of my favorite parts of the concert wrap-up is when Phil shares stories of how their music has changed lives. One person brought their non-believing roommate to the show—and that night, they gave their life to Christ. That’s the kind of ripple effect you can’t plan for, but God orchestrates perfectly.

    It’s all FOR THE ONE For the one who saved us and the one who is lost out there. That phrase echoes throughout the movie, and honestly? It’s a mantra worth living by. Every song, every story, every city—they did it all for Jesus. And so should we.

    This isn’t about applause or spotlight. It’s about giving God every ounce of glory. We’re called to share the gospel, not stifle it. Jesus laid it out clearly in the Great Commission:

    Matthew 28:19 (ESV)
    Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

    So let’s go! Share the movie. Send clips of Phil and Brandon’s songs. Tell your story. Let people know that God loves them and that salvation is real, powerful, and available.

    Want to keep the momentum going? I’ve got you covered. The last two days of the devotional walk through four powerhouse songs from the film:

    • “This Is Amazing Grace” – Phil Wickham
    • “Honey in the Rock” – Brandon Lake
    • “Homesick for Heaven” – Phil Wickham
    • “Hard-Fought Hallelujah” – Brandon Lake & Jelly Roll

    Each song carries a message, and I’ve paired them with reflection questions and scripture to help you dig deeper.

    Bonus for the Younger Crowd

    Brandon and Phil’s concert isn’t just for grown-ups—it’s a blast for all ages. That’s why I created a tween/teen devotional with questions tailored just for them. Whether you’re leading a youth group or handing it off to your kids, it’s a great way to help the next generation connect faith with music and truth.

    Feel free to download the devotional or grab a copy using the SHOP button on the homepage.

    Let’s keep the revival going – FOR THE ONE!

  • For the One – Rewind #3

    Here we go—finally time to talk about the tattooed country boy who’s shaking up worship music with grit, grace, and a whole lot of heart. Brandon Lake isn’t just a voice on your playlist; he’s a story worth diving into.

    Like Phil Wickham, Brandon shares a powerful moment with his dad in the film—one that hits you right in the soul. His father, now in his 60s, calls Brandon the most influential person in his life. That’s not just touching—it’s legacy in motion.

    The songs that Brandon included in the movie around the time of him sharing about his family and music journey were “Count ‘Em,” “That’s who I praise,” “Gratitude” and “Love of God.” The devotional will dive into these deeper.

    Back in 2017–2018, Brandon hit a wall. Touring nonstop, chasing the adrenaline of the stage, he found himself in the grip of a panic attack. The spotlight had become a trap. That’s when he realized: he wasn’t built for city lights—he was made for open skies, quiet mornings, and the kind of peace that only comes from being close to God and grounded in nature.

    His honesty about anxiety and depression is a breath of fresh air in a world that often hides the struggle. But Brandon doesn’t just talk about it—he points us to the way through. He reminds us that when we’re weak, God shows up strong. That we don’t have to carry it all. We just have to step aside and let God take the lead.

    And then there’s the backstory—Charleston, South Carolina. A farm. A wife. Three boys. Ten years of faithful service as a worship pastor before anyone knew his name. Brandon didn’t rise overnight. He dug deep, worked hard, stayed faithful, and let God build something lasting.

    Now let’s talk tattoos. Brandon’s got plenty, and each one tells a story. In the film, we even watch him get inked. For him, tattoos are like songwriting—spirit-led, intentional, and always rooted in truth. A flower for beauty and new life. A skull to declare fearlessness in the face of death. His music carries that same tension: tenderness and toughness, reverence and roar. Just listen to “Gratitude”—soft and stirring, until that lion shows up towards the end and flips the whole vibe.

    Want to go deeper? We’ve got three days of devotionals waiting for you. Each one is built around Brandon’s songs—“Count ‘Em,” “That’s Who I Praise,” “Gratitude,” and “Love of God.” You’ll find reflection questions, scripture, and prayer prompts to help you connect the music to your walk with God.

    So go ahead—press play, open your heart, and let these songs remind you that God’s love is fierce, faithful, and always near.

  • For the One – Rewind #2

    Let’s talk Phil Wickham. In the movie, he’s the first to crack open his story—and it’s not just surface-level stuff. He shares his testimony, his struggles, and the winding road that led him into music. And just when you think it couldn’t get more personal, we’re invited into a tender moment between Phil and his dad, John, as they reflect on John’s baptism and Phil’s early years growing up in faith.

    The songs that Phil included in the movie around the time of him sharing about his childhood were “I believe” and “Sunday is coming.”

    One of the most powerful moments comes when Phil opens up about his vocal cord surgery. Phil talked about his struggle with his identity when he couldn’t talk, no less sing for 6 weeks. Phil wrestled with a big question: Who am I if I can’t sing? Through reflection and knowing who God is, his father, he realized no matter the circumstances, he is a child of God first and foremost. His identity is in Christ, not the ability that Christ gave him. This is inspiring for all of us. We are not who the world says we are, we are children of God. No matter what happens in this life, God loves us and we are his children. Nothing can take that away from us.

    It was interesting to hear more about Phil’s background and how he grew up in Southern California. His dad talked about how he was a part of the Jesus Revolution in the 1970’s and was baptized at the age of 15 —the first in his family. It’s crazy how John’s baptism and belief in Jesus led him to find his wife and ultimately to Phil being born. John’s decision impacted Phil, whose life and songs impact millions of others. One act of obedience echoed across generations. That’s the kind of ripple effect only God can orchestrate. Who knows that impact you and I could have as well with the power of Jesus on our side!

    So here’s the challenge: What kind of legacy are we building? What step of faith might God use in your life to impact someone else’s decades from now?

    Ready to go deeper? The download includes two days of devotions centered on “I Believe” and “Sunday Is Coming.” You’ll find scripture, reflection questions, and prayer prompts to help you connect more deeply with God through these songs.

    Let’s lean in, listen well, and remember—our identity is secure, our story matters, and God is always at work.

  • For the One – Rewind #1

    This time on Biblical Rewind, I’m diving into something a little different—a documentary-meets-worship experience that’s less “concert footage” and more “spiritual fire starter.” For the One, now streaming on Amazon Prime, captures the 2024 Summer of Worship tour with Brandon Lake and Phil Wickham. But don’t expect a typical concert movie. This isn’t just lights, music, and crowd shots—it’s a front-row seat to the heartbeat behind the songs, the mission behind the tour, and the Savior behind it all.

    From the title alone, you know what this film is about: Jesus. Every lyric, every prayer, every mile traveled—it’s all For the One. And that’s not just a catchy phrase. It’s the theme that echoes throughout the movie: “For the one who saved us and the one who is lost out there.” That’s the fuel behind Brandon and Phil’s ministry, and it’s what makes this film more than entertainment—it’s a call to worship and a call to action.

    I’ll be breaking this documentary down into a few posts, each with reflection questions you can use for personal devotion, family time, or group study. Whether you watch the movie solo or with your church crew, there’s plenty here to spark conversation and deepen your walk with Christ.

    Now, I didn’t get to attend the 2024 tour (still kicking myself), but I did catch the 2025 show in Cincinnati—and wow. Just wow. The energy, the worship, the unity between these two artists—it was like stepping into a praise party that heaven itself was hosting. What sets their concerts apart is how they perform together. No one headliner—just two worship leaders sharing the stage, singing each other’s songs, and lifting up the name of Jesus in harmony. It’s electric. It’s joyful. It’s unforgettable.

    Let’s talk about the movie itself. It kicks off with prayer—because of course it does. What better way to begin than by inviting God in? We get a behind-the-scenes look at the crew and artists before the lights go up. Phil and Brandon gather everyone to pray, confess, and even take communion together. It’s not just a team—it’s a brotherhood. The kind of fellowship that reminds you what church is supposed to feel like.

    One moment that really stuck with me: Phil Wickham opens up about how he’d been distracted by numbers—followers, ticket sales, crowd sizes. It’s a vulnerable confession, and it’s powerful to see how he used that conviction to refocus on Jesus. It’s a reminder that even worship leaders aren’t immune to the pull of performance over purpose. But grace steps in, and the spotlight shifts back to the One who deserves it.

    Brandon Lake shares how Christian concerts changed his life as a kid—and now he’s out there doing the same for the next generation. You can’t help but imagine the ripple effect. How many young hearts are being stirred toward Jesus because of these nights of worship?

    The first few songs in the movie set the tone: Brandon’s “Praise You Anywhere” kicks things off with high-octane joy, followed by Phil’s “Joy in the House of the Lord,” which keeps the celebration rolling. Then comes “Graves into Gardens” by Brandon and Elevation Worship—a powerful anthem that had the crowd’s hands raised and voices soaring.

    Want to go deeper? I’ve got you covered. I’ll be posting a series of devotionals that pair with the songs from the movie. Each one includes reflection questions, prayer prompts, and space to process what God might be saying through the music. Whether you’re watching the film or just listening to the playlist, these devotionals are designed to help you connect with Jesus in a fresh way.

    So grab your Bible, queue up For the One, and let’s worship—not just with our voices, but with our hearts, our questions, and our conversations. Because this isn’t just a movie. It’s a movement. And it’s all For the One.

  • The Chosen – Season 5 – Episode 8 Rewind

    It’s here—the final episode—and wow, does it deliver! After seven episodes walking through the Last Supper, this one opens with the final song sung at the table. I wasn’t sure if we’d revisit the Supper again, but instead, we’re swept straight into the Garden with Jesus. And honestly? That shift felt right. The tone changes, the tension builds, and things get real.

    Jesus heads out with Peter, James, and John, asking them to keep watch while he prays. Simple enough, right? Except… they fall asleep. Repeatedly. Three times, Jesus comes back to find them snoozing. Peter even gets called “Simon,” which stings—like a gentle but pointed reminder of his old self. You can almost hear Jesus thinking, Come on, guys. Just one hour.

    Meanwhile, the show gives us a peek into other corners of Jerusalem. Atticus and Pilate are deep in conversation—Pilate wants peace, Atticus wants Rome to look good. Claudia’s still haunted by dreams she can’t shake. And the religious leaders? They’re in full-on debate mode. Caiaphas pushes for Jesus’ arrest, but not everyone’s on board. Then, in walks Nicodemus with a dramatic entrance, trying to defend Jesus. It’s bold, it’s heartfelt… and it’s just too late. Judas has already made his move.

    Back in the Garden, Jesus begins to pray—and this is where the episode takes a powerful turn. He has three visions. The visions come from scripture, but creatively imagined for the screen as we don’t know for sure that Jesus had these visions while he was in the garden:

    1. Abraham and Isaac – Jesus watches Abraham prepare to sacrifice his son, only for God to provide a ram. The irony is thick: Jesus is about to be sacrificed, but no ram is coming for him.
    2. Valley of Dry Bones – Straight out of Ezekiel 37, Jesus stands among lifeless bones as God promises to breathe life into them. Resurrection imagery? Absolutely. It’s a quiet nod to what’s coming in three days.
    3. Joseph’s Comfort – Jesus is embraced by his earthly father. It’s tender, grounding, and deeply human.

    Then comes the moment we’ve been dreading: Judas steps out from behind the Roman guards and kisses Jesus. That kiss—so simple, so loaded—is the signal. The betrayal is complete. The disciples are stunned. We’re stunned. And just like that, the season ends.

    There’s a lot of scripture packed into this episode, and if you’re ready to dig deeper, the study guide has you covered. This is your last chance to dive into the Word alongside the season. I hope this journey has helped you grow—whether in your understanding of Jesus, your love for scripture, or your connection to God.

    Want the full study guide with bonus material? Grab it through the link attached. It’s been a joy walking through this season with you.

  • The Chosen – Season 5 – Episode 7 Rewind

    Let’s address the elephant in the room: if you’re squeamish about feet, this episode probably made you squirm. We’re not talking pedicures—we’re talking dusty, calloused, road-weary disciple feet. And Jesus? He got right down and washed them. All of them. That includes Judas—the guy about to hand him over. If humility had a face, this was it.

    The buildup to the Passover meal is full of intrigue. Jesus sends two disciples ahead with cryptic instructions involving a man with a water jar. Of course, it unfolds exactly as he says—because when doesn’t it? They find the house, and it’s ready for them, just as foretold. In a creative twist, the show introduces a boy named Mark who’s scrubbing graffiti off the walls: “Jesus Is Messiah.” Not exactly in scripture, but it’s a clever way to mark the spot—pun intended. Is this Mark the future gospel writer? Maybe. Maybe not. But the name drop doesn’t feel accidental.

    Then the episode takes a turn—a memory lane detour. We see several disciples caught in flashbacks as they journey to the supper, stirring up backstories we didn’t get in Season 1 and 2. Little James and Thaddeus (in the next episode) finally get their origin moment, while Zee, Nathanael, Andrew, Thomas, and Matthew each get emotional highlights that bring depth and closure to their stories. It’s not pulled from scripture, but it definitely adds some flavor.

    And then there’s Judas. His scene with his sister packs a punch. She tells him his name will be remembered forever—a prophecy of pride dressed up as praise. Of course, history took that sentiment and ran with it in the darkest direction possible. Caiaphas says Judas is the last of his line, destined to be forgotten. How wrong they both were. Judas would become one of the most infamous names in human history, etched into scripture—not as a hero, but as the betrayer.

    Ready to geek out a little? Dive into the study guide and explore the scripture that anchors this episode. You’ll spot the overlaps, catch the creative detours, and flex that spiritual discernment like a pro.

    The entire bible study is available for purchase at Lulu.com. See the Shop icon on the homepage or click the link below to purchase your own copy. https://www.lulu.com/shop/brittany-mcgaffin/the-chosen-season-5-bible-study/paperback/product-7k8k7g5.html?q=brittany+mcgaffin&page=1&pageSize=4