What inspired your video series?
My friend suggested that I create a video series to complement the book with personal stories. I loved the idea, and my mind began spinning with possibilities. At that point, I had no idea what it would require.
Armed with a camera and a little lapel mic, I started to outline the scripts. That was the easy part. Even memorizing my outlines was not difficult. But then I started the process of film production.
My budget was $0 because I really wanted this series to be free and accessible to everyone. That meant it would be a DIY project. As I began to realize all the steps involved in producing these films, I quickly became overwhelmed. I think I was overwhelmed every day and night for about four months! No joke.
But I kept giving the vision back to God and praying “Lord, if this is Your vision, please make it happen!” God brought people and resources my way and step-by-step it took shape.
What do you envision for small group sessions?
I picture the leader gathering friends, meeting in a home, and definitely having food. After some fellowship, the leader calls everyone to the living room and starts the session by playing the corresponding video.
After the video, they read the background session aloud and start working through the questions. I envision everyone in the group having something to contribute and feeing affirmed in their faith and ability to comment on Scripture. I picture everyone developing a love for Bible interpretation as they work through each chapter.
Groups continue by discussing the questions and reflections at the end of each chapter together or wait till the following week to discuss the questions after reflecting on the passage.
The session ends with someone reading the prayer. It would be wonderful if participants also shared their prayer requests and concerns and prayed for each other.
Why are you giving away the video series for free?
I wanted to eliminate the obstacle of cost so everyone could benefit from my Bible study. I really wanted every small group leader to have these videos to help them start off the session and reduce the challenge of having to introduce the chapter themselves. It was important to me to have ad-free videos as well.
What did you learn in the process of writing and producing the videos and website?
Most surprising to me is that I learn so much code! I barely knew what code was before I started. Also, it’s amazing how much time and effort it takes to make a website look simple! I learned that I naturally do things “uber”—too much content and detail—and then I need to scale back and simplify. I'm trying to change that tendency going forward!
