Red One: Movie Review

A Festive Delight: "Red One"

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a heartwarming and action-packed film? "Red One," directed by Jake Kasdan, is a delightful addition to the Christmas movie genre. Starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, this film brings together a perfect blend of humor, adventure, and holiday magic. Here's why "Red One" is a must-watch this season.

A Unique Take on Santa Claus

"Red One" reimagines the beloved figure of Santa Claus in a way we've never seen before. J.K. Simmons portrays a bench-pressing, snickerdoodle-cookie-loving Santa who is under the watchful eye of the Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority (MORA). This modern twist on Santa adds a fresh and exciting dimension to the character, making him relatable and endearing to audiences of all ages.

Stellar Performances

The film boasts an impressive cast, with Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans leading the charge. Johnson plays Callum Drift, the head of North Pole security, who is contemplating retirement after centuries of service. Evans portrays Jack O'Malley, a renowned hacker who unknowingly sells information revealing Santa's location. The chemistry between Johnson and Evans is electric, and their performances bring depth and charm to their characters.

Engaging Plot and Action-Packed Scenes

"Red One" takes viewers on a globetrotting adventure as Callum and Jack team up to rescue Santa from the clutches of the winter witch, Gryla, played by Kiernan Shipka. The film's plot is engaging and keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The action scenes are well-choreographed and visually stunning, adding to the overall excitement of the film.

Heartwarming Themes

At its core, "Red One" is a film about faith, redemption, and the true spirit of Christmas. Callum's crisis of faith and his journey to rediscover the magic of Christmas is a central theme that resonates with viewers. The film also explores the importance of teamwork, friendship, and believing in the impossible. These heartwarming themes make "Red One" a perfect film for the holiday season.

Visual Spectacle

The film's visual effects are nothing short of spectacular. From the high-tech North Pole metropolis to the magical snow globes, "Red One" is a feast for the eyes. The attention to detail in the set design and special effects adds to the immersive experience, making viewers feel like they are part of the adventure.

Conclusion

"Red One" is a delightful and heartwarming film that captures the magic of Christmas in a unique and exciting way. With stellar performances, an engaging plot, and stunning visuals, it is a must-watch for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. So grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the festive adventure that is "Red One."  I watched it with my nephew and we enjoyed it. While it has some swear words and comedic violiece, it is a fun movie to watch over the holidays. You won't be disappointed!

Santa is Real: St. Nicholas of Myra

We all grew up hearing about Santa Claus.  He is said to visit homes on Christmas Eve and brings presents to children.  Did you know he was real? Well not in the "jolly elf" sense, but as in a Saint.  

St. Nicholas of Myra is the man that is represented by the caricature "Santa Claus."  Born around 270 or 342, St. Nicholas was the Bishop in Myra which is in modern-day Turkey.

He lived the Christian virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity well.  He would secretly go to homes and leave bags of coins and food for the poor.  People would leave their shoes outside so he could drop a coin into them.  He was known as the "Wonder Worker" for the many miracles Our Lord granted through him.  The name "Santa Claus" comes from the Dutch, "Sinter Klaas."  

As a bishop, St. Nicholas defended the orthodoxy of the Catholic faith.During the Council of Nicea in AD 325 convened by Emperor Constantine, Arius who was a bishop spoke against the divinity of Christ claiming that Christ was inferior to the Father. He argued that Christ was not God and was more like a demigod. Arius attacked the divinity of Christ. This idea came to be known as Arianism and was condemned as heresy in the council. However, prior to this condemnation, St. Nicholas condemned the heresy in a more physical manner. As Arius spoke, St. Nicholas rushed towards him and punched him. St. Nicholas could not contain his anger upon hearing the heresy being spewed by Arius. Constantine and the other bishops present were shocked and they stripped Nicholas of his faculties as a bishop by removing his pallium and confiscating his book of Gospels. Legend has it that while he was imprisoned, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Lord Jesus Christ visited him asking him why he was there. Nicholas replied that he was imprisoned because he loved Christ because Christ is His Lord and God.  Jesus then gave back his book of Gospels and the Blessed Virgin Mary placed his pallium back on. Upon hearing of this miracle, Constantine and the other bishops reinstated Nicholas' faculties as bishop.  The bishops at the council then sided with him and condemned Arius.  This is why in the Nicene Creed we recite of Christ that He is,

"God from God, Light from Light, True God from True God, begotten not made, consubstantial with the Father.” 

Clearly, Arius was on "Santa's" "Naughty list."  Recently, archeological discoveries have confirmed that St. Nicholas did exist and that his remains are still among us. These remains are said to release perfumed oil. Relics in possession of several parishes, including to a priest were confirmed to date to the 4th century.  The verdict is in St. Nicholas of Myra was a real person.

During Christmas, families should reflect on this great man's life and virtues.  We should imitate his faith, hope, and works of love by giving to those in need.  Moreover, we should imitate his adherence to the faith and never accept heretical views that contradict revelation.

Christmas is about the Birth of Christ but is also a reminder that Christ must be born daily in our hearts.  We must carry out His words to Love God above all things and love our neighbor as ourselves just as St. Nicholas did.

We should help others, especially those in need.  We should give to others not to get something in return, but out of complete generosity and love.

His feast day is on December 6 which is the date he died in the year 343.  He is the Patron Saint of Children, Pawnbrokers, and Bakers.   

God, Our Father, we pray that through the intercession of St. Nicholas You will protect our children. Keep them safe from harm and help them grow and become worthy in Your sight. Give them strength to keep their Faith in You; and to keep alive their joy in Your creation. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Here is a nice website:  http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/home/

Source:

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/turkish-archaeologists-find-santa-claus-tomb-saint

http://www.theweek.co.uk/88811/santa-claus-tomb-discovered-in-turkey

https://www.rd.com/culture/santa-claus-tomb/

https://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/12/holidays-saints-religion-tombs-burials/

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2017-12/uoo-cab120517.php

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-5150629/Fourth-century-bone-belonged-St-Nicholas.html

https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/5077423/bone-fragment-from-st-nicholas-who-inspired-father-christmas-is-found-in-a-us-church/

http://www.bbc.com/news/education-42239197

http://www.newsweek.com/santa-claus-ancient-bone-owned-us-priest-confirmed-be-right-age-saint-nicholas-739626

http://www.foxnews.com/tech/2017/12/06/santas-bone-dates-to-time-st-nicholas-scientists-discover.html

Second Sunday of Advent

Last week, we were reminded that Jesus is coming. This week, we are reminded to prepare for His return.

In the first reading, we read of 'Jerusalem' and how God calls her to "take off your robe of mourning and misery" and "put on the splendor of glory from God forever." Jerusalem represents the people of God (2 Chronicles 6:6, Zechariah 1:16). In our case, the Church (Romans 12:5). We are called by God to remove all that holds us down and brings mourning and misery; namely, sin. Sin causes all kinds of problems (Romans 6:23, 1 John 3:4). Sin brings about fights which cause tension and discord (Isaiah 59:2, Romans 16:17). Sin brings about divorce which hurts love and children. Sin brings about fanaticism which brings about death and mourning via terrorism. Sin brings lust to relationships which brings misery and broken hearts. In a word, sin is bad. There is nothing good about it. We must remove it and replace it with "God's splendor." We have to "Put on a new self" (Colossians 3:10, Ephesians 4:24).  God will secure us with His light of glory.  His mercy and justice will accompany us as the reading tells us in the ending. We know what God is capable of. You reading this would not be here reading now if you were not a believer of God and became one because you saw God in your life. In response, we must be filled with joy at God's marvels as the Psalm for today tells us.'

The Psalm today reminds us of joy in God after God has rescued us. Israel suffered greatly. Jerusalem was conquered. However, God did not abandon His people (Deuteronomy 31:6). He was always there and brought them back to the promised land. Joy immediately returned to the people. The people saw how God truly cared for them and did not let their enemies triumph (Isaiah 40:11, Psalm 41:11). We too, today, must recall how God has rescued us in our lives. How He restored our fortunes and wiped the tears from our eyes (Revelation 21:4). In response, we pray and grow in faith as the second reading tells us.

In the second reading, we are reminded that God begins the "good work" in us and will complete it in anticipation for the day of Christ Jesus (Matthew 13:1-23). This is Advent in a nutshell, so to speak. God began His work in us. We allow this work to take hold as we become more receptive to God via the Sacraments. Advent is a period of preparing and waiting. We must let love increase in us as the reading states and be able to discern every perception to see if it has value or not (1 Thessalonians 5:21). This will ensure us that we stand blameless before Christ on the day of Christ.  This day of course refers to the last day when Christ returns to judge the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1).  We must make use of the Sacrament of Reconciliation during this time as we prepare. We must heed the call of repentance as we read in the Gospel today.

The Gospel starts by telling us of what was going on prior to Christ's birth.  We are told of those who were the political and religious leaders of the time.  This information is meant to give some historical perspective by telling us of the timeline. Next, we are told of John, the son of Zechariah who is in the desert and receives the word of God. Immediately, he goes about the region telling people to repent and be baptized. This fulfills the prophesy of Isaiah who wrote:

"A voice of one crying out in the desert:

“Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.Every valley shall be filled and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”

As stated before, Advent is a period of preparation. We must prepare the way of the Lord by making straight His paths. Jesus comes to our hearts so we must make sure they are clean and straight (Revelation 3:20). We must be blameless before Him when He returns. If during Advent and afterwards we are not going to confession, becoming more loving, kind and merciful, following the Church's teachings more, then we are not preparing the way for the Lord (Colossians 3:2, 1 Corinthians 13:1-2). I use the Advent wreath to remind me about how to prepare and what to work on.  This is my personal mediation:

Jesus told us in Luke 10:27 to love God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. To me, each candle on the Advent wreath represents each thing we must love God with.

• So I work on the first candle: love God with my mind. 
• Then the second: love God with my heart. 
• Then the third: love God with my soul. 
• Finally the fourth: love God with my strength and go out with that fortified strength and preach the Gospel. 

I do this as I prepare for the Lord's coming, not only on Christmas but on the day of Christ as it is described in the second reading. The 'circle' of the wreath reminds me that I have to keep preparing all year long (Philippians 2:12). The wreath does not end at one point but continues in a circular fashion reminding me that my personal preparation must be ongoing and must never end (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Let us heed the call of John and repent. Let us ask God to continue and complete that good work in us.  Let us set aside the garments of misery and mourning and ask God to put on us a new self that truly reflects His image (Genesis 1:27, Colossians 3:10, Ephesians 4:24). Today we celebrate St. Nicholas of Myra as well (see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2011/12/santa-is-real.html).  The man 'Santa Claus' derives from. He prepared for Christ well by being generous to others, especially the poor. His faith was so strong that he even physically (punched) knocked the living daylights of Arius who denied the divinity of Christ (Arianism). While I do not recommend physical violence against anyone, we should 'knock out' bad ideas from our lives as we prepare for Christ's second coming.  Come Lord Come!  


Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120615.cfm

Happy holidays..yeah right!.. it's MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Christ Jesus is the Reason for the Season, not Commercialism, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus and all these other distractions. Christ is the reason why we even get days off to celebrate, decorate and enjoy time with family and friends in December. It is unfortunate that other cultures choose the same time to celebrate their recent customs such as Kwanzaa and so forth. Even Atheists attempted to create their own "holiday" by adding to Festivus a few years ago which was a ridiculous attempt and childish I must say.


Christmas is the ONLY legal holiday, not Hanukkah or Kwanzaa.  This is not an attack on my brothers and sisters in the Jewish and African communities, so don't misinterpret please.  What I am trying to convey is that Christmas is the only day that is legally a holiday in the United States of America and therefore should be respected and treated in a unique way instead of pushed aside.  

It is so ridiculous how people try to change the words "Merry Christmas" to "Happy Holidays."  Some even have gone so far as to change the words to the song, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"  to "We Wish You a Happy Holiday."   This is an epic capital "SMH" or "Shaking My Head" trigger.  When Stupidity, Bigotry and Secularism mix, we get these results.  


Christmas is the official legal holiday so therefore it is: Merry Christmas.  If that offends anyone, then they need to get over it because it is the law. 


 There is no valid reason to ban Nativity Scenes in Cities or Towns, or use Snowmen, Wreathes and Santa Claus to replace Christ.  It is not "Snowmenmas," or "SantaMass,"  it is CHRISTmas.    

Jesus Christ, Son of God - Son of Mary took on the form of sin to save us from sin and ourselves. 

This is His Birth Date!   

Christians stand up for our Lord!   Say Merry Christmas, not Happy Holidays.  Remind others that Jesus is the Reason for the Season.  Do not be afraid!  




“I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God. - Luke 12:8-9




Let us allow Christ to continue to be born in our hearts at every moment and not forget that He will return like a thief in the night-unexpected.

Santa is Real!

We all grew up hearing about Santa Claus.  Did you know he was real?  Well not in the "jolly elf" sense, but as in a Saint.  


St. Nicholas of Myra is the man that is represented by the caricature "Santa Claus."  Born around 342, St. Nicholas was the Bishop in Myra which is in modern day Turkey.

He lived the Christian virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity well.  He would secretly go to homes and leave bags of coins and food for the poor.  People would leave their shoes outside so he could drop a coin into them.  He was known as the "Wonder Worker" for the many miracles Our Lord granted through him.  The name "Santa Claus" comes from the Dutch, "Sinter Klaas."  


During Christmas, families should reflect on this great man's life and virtues.  We should imitate his faith, hope and works of love by giving to those in need.

Christmas is about the Birth of Christ, but is also a reminder that Christ must be born daily in our hearts.  We must carry out His words to Love God above all things and love our neighbor as ourselves just as St. Nicholas did.

We should help others, especially those in need.  We should give to others not to get something in return, but out of complete generosity and love.

His feast day is on December 6.  He is the Patron Saint of Children, Pawnbrokers and Bakers.   

God, Our Father, we pray that through the intercession of St. Nicholas You will protect our children. Keep them safe from harm and help them grow and become worthy in Your sight. Give them strength to keep their Faith in You; and to keep alive their joy in Your creation. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Here is a nice website:  http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/home/