The Passion of The Christ

Unless you have been living in some part of the world where there is no communication with the outside world, I'm certain you have heard about Mel Gibson's latest film release entitled, "The Passion Of The Christ."What makes this movie unique from most Passion plays and past films on the death and resurrection of Jesus, is this director's use of explicit violence. No longer does the viewer see a serene Jesus stoically accepting the pain of his scourging and crucifixion with little more than a few drops of blood and sweat, but Gibson purposely and methodically leads the viewer to a more realistic portrayal of the agony Christ, endured so that we who acknowledge Him may have eternal life.

Like many people who have already viewed this powerful film, I shed many tears as I uncomfortably watched the bloody and beaten body of "Jesus" being tortured and put to death. "Is this extreme violence really necessary?" I thought. As objectionable as viewing the relentless suffering and bloodshed was, I felt what seemed like an obligation to sit through the entire film and endure, as did most of the movie-goers sitting near me. After all, what was my mere discomfort compared to the actual pain and suffering Christ endured? It was the least I could do to sit through the whole movie, shedding my tears, crying and grieving for him, this man who was pure and without blemish, and yet, he paid the price of our sins with his own life.

Why did Jesus allow himself to be mocked, humiliated, beaten, tortured and nailed to a cross to die before man? Because, as the title conveys, Christ was passionate about his purpose here on earth. Death did not overcome the Son of God; He gave of himself freely due to his passionate love for all of mankind.

I've always wondered why they refer to Easter story depictions as "Passion Plays." Now I know, for not only do I feel more passionate about my love for God after seeing this movie, but I better understand His passion for us.

The purpose of this Daily Wisdom is not to promote a film, but a call for us all to consider if we fully understand and appreciate Christ's sacrifice on the cross. With Easter soon upon us, perhaps we all can explore where our own passions rest.

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Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2003 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God," and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations for those who seek God each day." For more information, visit her web page at www.angelfire.com/mi/melschurr