A few weeks ago I started hearing about the new movie “The Rite.” My mom and Jim both told me about it and shared their mutual interest in seeing the film. After watching “The Exorcism of Emily Rose” I decided that my humble vocation as a wife and mom did not mesh with seeing images of demonic spiritual warfare like those depicted in that movie. In short: it freaked me out for a long time. I believe in Satan and reject evil, but I don’t need to see it manifested to get the point.
So, when they expressed interest in the movie I blew it off and said I would sit this one out.
Still, I wanted to do my homework and see what the angle was on the film. It turns out, the next day I received an invitation to an early viewing of the movie. Meaning, this would be a chance to report back to our listeners about the film before it opens. Was it going to be a drive-by Hollywood horror with no substance? Was it meant to inform, or confuse and frighten? God is not the author of confusion so my guard was up and my expectations were low.
After doing more digging I discovered the book was well received in the Christian community. It is highly regarded as a balanced, measured tone and “steady refusal to sensationalize the subject.” (-Beliefnet.com).
So, last Thursday Jim picked up the book for me and today (3 days later) I finished reading it. I am so glad I did. This book is exceptional in many ways and I highly recommend it. It’s not scary or gory or over-the-top. It’s informative, inspiring, and a reassuring reminder of the power that comes from Christ, Mary and all the saints and angels. The book shares Biblical, historical and theological facts and at the end, I felt like I had completed a boot camp of sorts in spiritual warfare. The book does include numerous descriptions of exorcisms but Matt Baglio writes in such a way that it’s not jolting or gratuitous. I am not sure what the Hollywood-ized version will offer, but I can tell you that the book is a must-read for all people, Christians and non-Christians. I am no longer afraid to see the film, and although I don’t expect it to live up to the book, I am “armed” and ready with the knowledge that the Almighty, All-Powerful God of the Universe is there.
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