“10 Commandments From a Hollywood Producer”

When Calls the Heart

Do you know Janette Oke’s “When Calls the Heart” series on the Hallmark Channel? Last week I met the show’s creator and executive producer, Brian Bird. We were at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.  

I had supper at his table one night. God has called this humble man to serve as a Christian writer and producer in Hollywood.

In his keynote address, Brian Bird shared his "thou shalt" list for those who write, speak, and teach for Jesus.

I summarized his remarks below.

Brian Bird’s 10 Commandments

Thou shalt...

1. …know why before you figure out how.

Whatever your calling, strive to be the Michelangelo of your field. Be your best at whatever God calls you to do.

2. …speaketh a language they understandeth.

Christian jargon confuses the masses. Call it a handshake, not the right hand of fellowship.

3. …be in the business of loving people.

God hasn’t given up on those around us who don’t share our values.

4. …be part of the conversation.

What good is only talking with the choir? Ask great questions that drive others closer to God.

5. …respect the path to power.

There is no Hollywood conspiracy to destroy the family; as a business, its goal is big profits. Gatekeepers bring their faith (or lack of it) into the decision making process. Hollywood needs more Christian gatekeepers.

Q: “How did you let that line into your show?”

A: “You should see all the lines we kept out.”

6. …know the difference between excellence and mediocrity.

Art should express our thanksgiving to God. If you’re a musician, don’t just get good enough to be in a garage band. Get good enough to be in the symphony.

7. …tell great stories.

Our DNA is wired for stories. Christians have the story to tell. 

8. …copy.

Imitate, not steal. Painters should copy the master, but bring themselves to the canvas to surpass the master.

9. …leave the door open behind you.

Mentor someone. Help others through the doorway of opportunity.

10. …know that God was and is a writer.

John 1:1 – in the beginning was the Word. Be God’s typist.

What young person could you encourage to pursue excellence in the arts? 

David