Titles: Heaven and Going Home (DVD format)
When they pop Heaven into their DVD players, Homecoming fans will immediately notice that this isn't business as usual. The DVD begins with a montage of Christian personalities expressing their thoughts about what Heaven will be like. As the program proceeds, the music becomes a backdrop to more comments about Heaven, some humorous, some serious, all inspiring. It may take a few minutes to realize that the comments are the focal point of these videos, with the music fading in and out to enhance what each narrator is saying. Few songs are complete performances.
In addition to Homecoming regulars like Janet Paschal, Bill and Gloria Gaither, Mark Lowry, Eva Mae Lefevre and Buddy Greene, individuals like Jack Hayford, Sheila Walsh, Evie Karllson, William Greathouse, Ron Mehl, Zig Ziglar, Steve Brown, Suzanne Jennings, and many others offer thoughts. Eva Mae's comments are amusing as she speaks about her life mission to keep Bill Gaither on the "straight and narrow." She says, "When I get to Heaven, I'm gonna start all over again, aggravating him." Joni Eareckson Tada is particularly inspiring as she speaks of her greater desire for a new heart than the freedom of getting out of the wheelchair she must use for her earthly body.
Musical highlights include Stephen Hill's soulful version of "When They Ring Those Golden Bells," the Isaacs' slow and smooth harmonies on "Oh Come, Angel Band," George Younce's deep felt narration on "I Couldn't Begin To Tell You," and Jake Hess' classic "Beautiful Isle of Somewhere." In one sense, this video is like a crescendo, with anticipation building until we reach David Phelps' stirring rendition of "No More Night" at the end.
As with many previous Gaither releases, Heaven has a companion product. Going Home is presented in the same format described above, with the music more or less taking a back seat to the comments of Homecoming regulars and many guests. There's plenty of music for your enjoyment, but again, the songs sometimes fade in and out as the interviews play. Some footage of one of Billy Graham's sermons is included in this video. Anne Graham Lotz is also featured telling a story about a missionary being reminded of the ultimate homecoming. Where Heaven builds to a grand climax, Going Home concludes with a more reflective mood. After Mark Lowry sings "Home Where I Belong," George Younce finishes the video with a recitation of "Should You Go First," while the choir hums "Beyond The Sunset."
Some Gaither videos are showcases for great performances. These two have their share. What sets Heaven and Going Home apart, though, is the overwhelming sense of inspiration, worship, and anticipation of our ultimate goal.
Artists: Bill and Gloria Gaither and their Homecoming Friends
Label: Spring House Music
Producer: Bill Gaither
Rating: 5 stars