"INFINITE GIFT: What Does it Mean to You?" directed by Robert Hatch, Direction Films, $14.95, 57 minutes
Seminary students are profoundly touched as they experience a lesson that changes their view of the Savior’s Atonement in Robert Hatch’s new film, “Infinite Gift: What Does it Mean to You?”
Following a heady discussion on the parable of the sower, a group of teenagers — all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — are left perplexed and confused about the Savior’s atoning sacrifice for them. Each youth is faced with unique struggles and trials that put a strain on his or her individual relationship with God.
Seeking to help the class grow and better understand the powerful gift of Jesus Christ’s Atonement, their seminary teacher arranges a meaningful demonstration using doughnuts and pushups to bring the Savior’s infinite sacrifice and eternal love to life.
Whether they are dealing with pornography addiction, family fighting, abuse, loneliness, bullying or pride, the students begin to see that through God’s love and Jesus’ mercy, no obstacle is too great to be overcome.
Hatch’s movie is a fluid telling of a popular LDS story. While the characters' issues are not deeply explored, their problems and concerns are relatable and meaningful. There is an element of reality that will likely make this video applicable to almost any family or group.
Although some of the emotional moments are a bit overdone, the film is poignant and moving. There is a tender sense of care as this sacred topic is addressed in a simple but compelling context.
This movie lasts just under an hour and could easily be used as part of a family home evening lesson or a youth activity. While it focuses on the lives of teens, the message of the movie will likely affect any viewer looking to gain a deeper understanding of his or her personal connection to the Savior’s Atonement.
Melissa DeMoux is a stay-at-home mother of six young children who lives in West Valley City, Utah. Her email is mddemoux@gmail.com and she blogs about her adventures in motherhood at demouxfamily.blogspot.com.