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State Missionary Rick Lance is executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

Other Recent Blog Entries:

A Sincere and Respectful Call for A Great Commandment Renewal
Thursday, June 24, 2010
As I have said earlier, I will do my best not to let disagreements define our relationships. I am praying that The Great Commandment Renewal will begin in me!

VBS Is a Blessing!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
As a pastor, I always felt that VBS was to be a major commitment on my part. I wanted to be in town, involved and engaged in the efforts of impacting the lives of children, youth and adults. It was not a chore for me, but rather it was a joy!

Taking the 'Stew' Out of Stewardship
Thursday, May 27, 2010
At first, I thought I had hurt his feelings. I mean this was a serious project, and maybe I was being a little too cute for my own good.


What About The Passion?

 

As the Easter season approaches, Christians will be seeking to prepare themselves to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. I must confess that this is my favorite time of year. As a young child I liked the season because the weather usually became warmer and the days became longer. My adult years have brought about a totally different perspective. My Christian faith is warmed and brightened each year during the Easter season by the celebration of Jesus Christ as our own Risen Lord.

This year there is an added dimension to my anticipation of this faith-heightening experience of worship. The Passion of the Christ, an authentic portrayal of the last 12 hours of the earthly ministry of Christ has come, or is coming, to local theatres.

Earlier this year I saw the theatrical trailer, and now I have had the opportunity to view the motion picture on two different occasions. It is an authentic depiction of the brutal scourging and the horrific crucifixion of our Lord.

I have heard the testimony of actor Jim Caviezel, who plays Christ in the movie. Additionally, I have read the reviews of notable evangelical Christians who have previewed The Passion of the Christ. Their affirmations of the motion picture have thrilled me. Charles Colson, Billy Graham, Morris Chapman, and Jack Graham have all echoed praises for Mel Gibson’s effort to portray the passion of Jesus Christ.

The film is not for everyone. It is rated “R” for the violent content, graphically and accurately depicted at the crucifixion. Therefore, children should not view this movie. It is much too graphic for their ability to process and interpret such visual experiences. Although the content does not contain gratuitous violence, some adults may be too sensitive about such matters to view the motion picture also.

I believe this film tells what happened; now the evangelical community can explain why it happened.

Whether or not you choose to view The Passion of the Christ, join in the celebration of the Risen Savior during this Easter season. Reflect upon the cross and remember what Jesus has done for you. Rejoice in His resurrection and know that He alone is THE LIVING LORD! His passion points to our purpose, which is to celebrate Him, serve Him, and share Him with others!

This article by Rick Lance was originally published in the March 2004 edition of 'FOCUS on One Mission', a monthly supplement to The Alabama Baptist newspaper.