The Book of Daniel was one of the most poignant TV offerings of our time. It was prematurely canceled due in large part to pressure from the religious right.
Telling the story of an Episcopal priest and his family, it touches on a full compliment of social issues as the family struggles with "real" life from a context of faith. If the viewer can keep in mind that while it is unlikely, though not impossible, for one family to face all these issues at the same time, there are are family's, both in and outside the Church, that experience each of these issues...and often in combination with others--then this show can change your life or at least the way your view your life, faith, God and the Church in general. Like real life, it tickles the funny bone, tugs at the heart strings, and causes the brain to say "hhmmmmm?" Throughout the family's struggles and joys Daniel, the priest speaks with Jesus...not just in traditional prayer to the unseen deity, but Jesus actually appears to Daniel... seated in the car next to him as he drives to and from appointments...over his shoulder in the mirror as he prepares for Sunday morning worship...even walking in the park. The character of Jesus and his conversations with Daniel (apparently offensive to some Christian mindsets) are at the heart of the show. It is here that Daniel explores his own questions of faith (also offensive to some). It is here that we see a true and real relationship between Jesus and one of his "flock." It is here that we see the Jesus of the Bible...caring, witty, smart, teacher, savior...at least the way I, a not-always-humble (mainline denomination) pastor read and understand the Bible.
Watch this series! Give it chance! Let it work on your life! If it angers you...ask "why?" If it moves you, beg for the creators to continue the story. If you feel nothing...well...really ask "why?" I love this show!!
Telling the story of an Episcopal priest and his family, it touches on a full compliment of social issues as the family struggles with "real" life from a context of faith. If the viewer can keep in mind that while it is unlikely, though not impossible, for one family to face all these issues at the same time, there are are family's, both in and outside the Church, that experience each of these issues...and often in combination with others--then this show can change your life or at least the way your view your life, faith, God and the Church in general. Like real life, it tickles the funny bone, tugs at the heart strings, and causes the brain to say "hhmmmmm?" Throughout the family's struggles and joys Daniel, the priest speaks with Jesus...not just in traditional prayer to the unseen deity, but Jesus actually appears to Daniel... seated in the car next to him as he drives to and from appointments...over his shoulder in the mirror as he prepares for Sunday morning worship...even walking in the park. The character of Jesus and his conversations with Daniel (apparently offensive to some Christian mindsets) are at the heart of the show. It is here that Daniel explores his own questions of faith (also offensive to some). It is here that we see a true and real relationship between Jesus and one of his "flock." It is here that we see the Jesus of the Bible...caring, witty, smart, teacher, savior...at least the way I, a not-always-humble (mainline denomination) pastor read and understand the Bible.
Watch this series! Give it chance! Let it work on your life! If it angers you...ask "why?" If it moves you, beg for the creators to continue the story. If you feel nothing...well...really ask "why?" I love this show!!