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

Other Recent Blog Entries:

The Caleb Spirit in 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
In my mind, Caleb is the Barnabas of the Old Testament. When others seemed to lose hope, he offered encouragement to them.

A Year to Remember
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
This can be the most wonderful time of the year if we allow the Christ of Christmas to guide us through the experience. Rather than being caught up in the routined frenzy of long lines at stores shopping for gifts and the endless social gatherings during the season, we can focus on what is called the Advent.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Thursday, December 8, 2011
This can be the most wonderful time of the year if we allow the Christ of Christmas to guide us through the experience. Rather than being caught up in the routined frenzy of long lines at stores shopping for gifts and the endless social gatherings during the season, we can focus on what is called the Advent.

Finishing Strong
Monday, November 21, 2011
I do not pretend to be a football coach, but I do believe this "sports experience" translates into our everyday lives, most notably in our Christian lives. There are times when we have seemingly given our all and we feel spent, emotionally, physically and even spiritually.

Be Encouraged!
Thursday, October 28, 2011
In periods of history like the one we now face, Christians have often done some of their most effective service for Christ. But in order to be an effective servant, we must find our source of encouragement in the face of these discouraging situations.

SBC Today: An Interview
Thursday, October 16, 2011
Managing ourselves means more than controlling the calendar, staying morally and ethically pure, reading the latest books, keeping family time balanced, and running things smoothly in one's ministry. I am convinced this means staying in touch with Lord and with yourself in such a way that you make the right decisions and lead in the right direction.


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.