Morning Devotional

February 26, 2004

"The Passion" 

by Don Emmitte

Home

As Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside privately and told them what was going to happen to him. "When we get to Jerusalem," he said, "the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, whipped, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead." (Matthew 20:17-19) 

When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, no one is likely to die for a good person, though someone might be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (Romans 5:6-8 NLT). 

Though I did not attend the opening night of The Passion, the new movie directed by Mel Gibson, I have heard many good things from those who were a part of the original screening of the movie. I am sure that there will be many discussions held about the details of the movie, however I am thrilled that it is receiving such early praise. It is centered around the last hours of Jesus before and during his death. Though graphic (and therefore not intended for young audiences), it points to the ultimate truth of the sacrificial death of Christ on our behalf. In that regard, the following story got my attention:

One day, a man went to visit a church. He arrived early, parked his car, and got out. Another car pulled up near him, and the driver told him, "I always park there. You took my place!" The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat, and sat down. A young lady from the church approached him and stated, "That's my seat! You took my place!" The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude welcome, but said nothing. After Sunday School, the visitor went into the church sanctuary and sat down. Another member walked up to him and said, "That's where I always sit. You took my place!" The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still said nothing. Later, as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the visitor stood, and his appearance began to change. Horrible scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet. Someone from the congregation noticed him and called out, "What happened to you?" The visitor replied, "I took your place."
 

Spend a moment or two and reflect on the incredible gift God has given you in the death of His Son, Jesus. Then, commit yourself to the same kind of sacrificial attitude and character in relationship to those around you.