I haven't seen The Passion movie yet... Friday night. For Christians I have a concern. Will it be just one more emotional experience... the kind that movies, in fact, are made to evoke... or will it actually call us to a deeper desire to contemplate the cross.
We have such an expectation of "instant." We expect instant food, instant information, and instant transformation.
I expect to have my heart stirred by the movie. In fact, I want to have my heart stirred by it. But real transformation does not come in instant packaging.
I would like to get more from the movie than just a quick stir. I want my heart motivated to take the desert road... to carve some time out away from it all to allow the real work of contemplation. This has, historically, been one of the great transformation experiences. Nothing touches the heart like resting at the foot of the cross, taking in the love, the sacrifice, the passion, the heart of the One who gave all... and entering into that place He has made for us next to His wounded side. Gazing upon the reality of who He is and what He did. These experiences are spirit to Spirit, life enhancing, heart transforming. The cross is our central encounter with God.
My concern is that we, as Christians, will feel like we have spent time at the cross when, in fact, we haven't. We just went on a mediated, one-time, heart-pounding ride. Stirs us for a few moments, maybe even days. But then... it fades. Not a bad thing at all. But really... not enough for me.
I'm asking God to give me just a little more of a taste, a thirst, a hunger... through it all... to be with Him.
(Feel free to post comments on this devotional blog, on your own daily devotion, on anything relating to contemplation, lectio divina, loving God.)
I don't plan to see the movie, but it is interesting to see the expectations some people have. Whatever the degree of effect it has on someone, it is another one of those things that can spark someone to go further down the path of holiness.
It's foolish for us to think that one event can have a huge, life-long impact - not saying it's impossible, just improbable. Holiness takes work - over the long haul, day-in and day-out. Patience & persistence and all that.
Posted by: Steve Bogner | February 27, 2004 at 04:50 AM
I had kept my expectations in check before seeing the movie last Friday. I had encountered one co-worker who had seen it. I could see visibly the impact it had on her. I heard a lot of office chatter , excitement not much different than for any other "newsy" movie. Yet I knew in my heart this would be huge for those who aren't born again.
The movie was beyond my expectations in quality and substance. A moving, powerful portrayal of the crucifixion and with a very thoughtful and crafted storyline or "adaptation". I was moved to tears and my heart was stripped naked with each contorted step Jesus made. It was if I was there!
Beyond all the artistry and impact, I believe this movie is a "trumpet". It is a wakeup call to Christianity. We are in the throes of the endtime. I believe this was an annointed work of God, sincerely. It is like a nail in our hands. Are we really living the crucified life? And to "fence-sitters" it is simply in-your-face-real.
Posted by: john | February 29, 2004 at 09:43 AM
gos always showed me way and when i was looking for a devotional blog i got this blog and artical are so nice - keep it up all- and may god bless you
Posted by: sarika | June 08, 2006 at 05:43 AM