Driving down McBean Parkway, the Edwards Theatre has been showing a plethora of faith-based films just in time for Resurrection Sunday. I have not seen this many God-inspired films flowing out of Hollywood in a great while (if ever). A minor miracle, when you think about it.
“Son of God” offered a poignant portrayal of Jesus’ road to the cross. Patrons exiting the movie theater were wiping tears due to the heart-wrenching depiction of Jesus’ final steps to pay the ultimate price. But joy comes in the morning – and in the mourning.
“Noah” was next to flood the silver screen. Although highly rated among Hollywood critics, it takes a complete detour from the biblical account. Oh, well; at least the name and the flood were in line with Bible. That’s Hollywood.
Coming soon, the New York Times best-seller, “Heaven is For Real,” promises to reveal the same sincerity as the book. Based on a true story, a 4-year-old dies on the operating table but is revived minutes later. His accounts of being with Jesus, John, his grandfather and unborn sister make a believer out of the hardest heart. Doors open in time for Easter Sunday.
For those who’d rather have a good debate (how can you argue with a – year-old, right?) “God’s Not Dead” takes on a college professor determined to crush all theories about God. One student would rather take a failing grade than abort the class, and reaches an unexpected destination, notwithstanding moments of “road rage” along the way.
Traveling through the SCV, there are 68 religious organizations rostered on Yelp, including many churches prayerfully anticipating visitors and new community residents. Recently, Soul Surfer Bethany Hamilton caught a wave to Santa Clarita during “The Road” series at Real Life Church. According to church officials, more than 10,000 people heard the “Soul Surfer” describe her journey which included “gnarly” waves and competitions, the shark attack that resulted in loss of her left arm, and saving herself for her husband (7 months a newlywed), encouraging other young people of the benefits of purity. It was a stop that made waves in Santa Clarita.
Most churches will offer Good Friday and Easter Sunday services. At the summit of celebrations, the faithful take the road less traveled atop Vasquez Rocks for a portrayal of the Christ’s death on the cross and his resurrection. This 5 a.m. sunrise service and reenactment hosted by several local churches is probably the ultimate mountaintop experience along Santa Clarita’s road to Easter.
Perhaps our paths will cross somewhere on the road to Easter as we celebrate the One who bridged the gap from heaven to earth. Joy comes in the morning, for He is risen indeed. Have a happy and blessed Easter. God loves you – John 3:16.
Gloria Locke is a Santa Clarita resident and producer of “SCV-Arts & Entertainment,” which airs Fridays and Sundays on SCVTV.

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3 Comments
Nice article, Gloria. I enjoyed reading the turn out for Real Life Church’s event and the tie-in to what is happening in SCV. It directs your readers not only to the One who loved them enough to pay the ultimate sacrifice for them, but also to how they could plug into other local believers.
Well done!
Thank you so much Debbie! Your comment means so much. It is my prayer to serve and Share Christ’s Vision through the arts. Thank you for the encouragement and for sharing. SCVNews is a big part of The Road:)
All the best, SCV-Arts & Entertainment
I think that gods real and he loves me. He died for us all he saved us. The devil should face that you don’t need the world to be happy no one does be gratefull of what you have .love god he loves you. Gods the best doctor if god brings you to it he will also bring you though it too he can help you all. One time when I was sick very sick I called out for marry she said every thing will be ok then 10 mins latter I felt good I did NOT feel BAD I felt like I was so peacefull I took a nap then woke up and felt even better! God IS the best ever doctor try it he really helps a lot marry too.and if know this you should cause I’m only 8 so pray I do and a little redneck I love camo if you give me camo I love you until the end like god. You don’t have to bea surtain age to pray love god and do many other things.