Evan Almighty

The DVD of Evan Almighty is currently doing the rounds at church, and last night Margaret and I watched it, accompanied by Susannah & James.

I know the movie has been around for a while, but despite the best of intentions, I didn't get to see it before now.

My perspective on it- very funny and very clever. I loved all the little touches like the name of the Estate Agent is Eve Adams- lots of little Bible jokes. And I loved the way the animals followed him, especially the luscious marine fish in the tank in the Congressman's office (way overstocked by the way- there is no way you could keep that many fish for more than a day in that tiny tank!). Oh and the gopher wood jokes! :D

Theologically and practically it missed a couple of points but hey it's entertainment not theology! You can pick apart the "doctrinal" elements but here's the basic message- GRACE!!!!!

Grace has God redeeming Evan/ Noah through a project that is way beyond him.

Grace enables Evan to proclaim a message that seems stupid, yet is vital.

Grace rescues the mockers, knockers and sceptics.

God in his amazing grace knew that the dam would break on September 22nd and that one man was uniquely placed to launch a rescue mission.

The animals had me perplexed for a while. Why bring those animals from all over the place when they obviously would not rescuing until they arrived in that valley?Then I realised, it could only be an ark if it had animals- the intended occupants would only recognise the mission of the ark if it had the necessary animals already present!

So yes it's a great, fun movie, but with a wonderful message. And in a weird way, true to the meaning of the original story.