..., I've needed some time to digest the emotional and thought provoking experience that is "The Passion of the Christ." I have never felt such ache and pain, such revulsion, such...emptiness and ...guilt. That it was for...me that He suffered through the brutality that is the Roman scourging...the cross.
I have understood and known for years of the brutality of the Roman Empire. They were not known as a kind hearted, soft and cuddly civilization. The Romans were well known in their time as the most violent of men. They took no thought to killing and maiming. It was their way of life. Yet to intellectually know that is one thing. To visually experience it another.
To see what Jesus bore at the hands of other men who whole heartedly enjoyed what they were doing. To see the flesh ripped from His body, even though I knew it was special effects. To see the loss of blood, of dignity, of life itself. Most people will ask why? And Jesus answered that question, "No one has greater love than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (Joh 15:13 MSG)
I reached the point in the film where I was too numb to cry, though I felt as though I could do nothing but cry. I cringed as the whip bit into He flesh and held as the soldiers pulled back on it. I felt like I was violating a truly intimate moment as mother, Mary, and son, Jesus beheld each other for the final time.
But I knew the end of the story. The Resurrection would not have been possible without the Crucifixion. The head of the serpent not crushed had not Jesus' been "wounded and bruised" (Gen. 3:15)
This is a turning point event. Not necessarily for civilizations or nations, but for individuals. All who see "The Passion..." will be affected. Most probably they will see what they expect to see. Richard Roper, Chicago film critic expressed concern that the critics "brought their agenda" to their reviews. See the video if it is still available under FNC Interviews, "Mixed Reviews."
When Bill O'Reilly asked him, "people will ask is it worth their two hours" Roper responded "yes...it is a very strong, important and challenging film." As Bill said, it is a difficult film to view and all who see it will do so bringing their own baggage but if you go with the attitude of "'what am I going to learn from this?' then it is certainly worthwhile." I say, more than worthwhile, life changing.