I’ve joined in for the A to Z challenge this year which runs from April 1st to the 30th. My choice of theme is Music from Favorite Films. I’ll be sharing the songs in order of film title and will write a little about my thoughts on the movie as well.

I’ve probably seen this movie twenty times and never tire of it. In Fireproof, Caleb (Kirk Cameron), a fireman, is struggling with his marriage to Catherine (Erin Bethea). Caleb’s been quite selfish and refuses to help pay for house improvements because he’s saving to buy a boat. He also expects Catherine to maintain everything around the house even though she also works as a hospital administrator.

It’s all just added stress for Catherine as she struggles to help her parents because her mom has recently suffered a stroke.

It gets to the point to where Caleb and Catherine have little respect for one another and argue constantly. Catherine bursts–she can’t take it anymore and asks to leave the marriage. In a heated argument, Caleb agrees with her.

Caleb expresses his feelings to his father and tells him the marriage is over. Of course, Caleb blames Catherine for everything–never accepting responsibility–stating that she’s the entire problem. His father’s heartbroken by it and encourages Caleb not to give up the marriage. He sends him a book in the mail titled The Love Dare (a 40-day devotional) in attempt to help save them.

At first, Caleb reluctantly agrees to try the devotions in the book, but he’s uncommitted and just goes through the motions every day–not putting any heart into it. As time moves on, he begins to take it more seriously, but will it be enough to save the marriage?

This movie is very close to my heart. Marriage isn’t always easy. I suppose every marriage has its ups and downs, but being married to a fireman can be even more difficult; I’ve learned a lot over the years being married to one. Divorce rates are sadly much higher amongst those in the career.

The problems Caleb and Catherine face in the movie aren’t uncommon either. Luckily, I’ve never been on the brink of divorce with my husband and can’t imagine the devastation. How beautiful though, that with everything Caleb is going through, he has a mother and father who love him and will do anything to help. They don’t just love Caleb, they love Catherine as well, and see both sides. They’re supportive and never take one side over the other. The strong family connection in the movie is heartwarming and one of my favorite themes.

“Love in its truest sense is not based on feelings, but a willingness to show thoughtful actions, even when there seems to be no reward.”

This is a Christian movie that’s faced a lot of criticism and isn’t for everyone. Because I’m a Christian, I didn’t view it as propaganda like many negative reviewers express. I’ll be honest and say that my husband didn’t like the movie and thought it was quite cheesy. For me personally, I find the movie inspiring; it makes me want to be a better wife and a better person in general. It’s touching, comical at times, and teaches a positive message.

In addition to the movie, I’ve also read the book, and the first devotion instructs to refrain from saying anything negative to your spouse that day. Who couldn’t benefit from that?

“The first part of this dare is fairly 
simple. Although love is communicated
in a number of ways, our words often
reflect the condition of our heart. For
the next day, resolve to demonstrate
patience and to say nothing negative
to your spouse at all. If the temptation
arises, choose not to say anything. It’s
better to hold your tongue than to say 
something you’ll regret.”

You’ll have to watch the movie to see how this first devotion works for Caleb…

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My song choice for this movie is “While I’m Waiting” by John Waller. This video pairs up with the movie, sharing scenes, but it doesn’t spoil anything.

Lyrics:

I’m waiting 
I’m waiting on You, Lord 
And I am hopeful 
I’m waiting on You, Lord 
Though it is painful 
But patiently, I will wait 

I will move ahead, bold and confident 
Taking every step in obedience 
While I’m waiting 
I will serve You 
While I’m waiting 
I will worship 
While I’m waiting 
I will not faint 
I’ll be running the race 
Even while I wait 

I’m waiting 
I’m waiting on You, Lord 
And I am peaceful 
I’m waiting on You, Lord 
Though it’s not easy 
But faithfully, I will wait 
Yes, I will wait 
I will serve You while I’m waiting 
I will worship while I’m waiting 
I will serve You while I’m waiting 
I will worship while I’m waiting 
I will serve you while I’m waiting 
I will worship while I’m waiting on You, Lord

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Image credits:

• filmfisher.com
• IMDB
• Usa.newonnetflix.info

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Thanks for checking out the A-Z challenge. Do you like this movie? Are you doing the challenge this year? Share your links in the comment section below if you’d like. Have a great week!

❤ Mischenko