One year ago, shortly before Easter, Mel Gibson’s movie The Passion of the Christ opened in theaters amid considerable controversy. Some film critics and religious leaders who had attended advance screenings expressed concern that the depiction of the last 12 hours of Jesus’ life contained too much graphic violence and that the film could cause an anti-Semitic backlash. Others praised The Passion as the most accurate and moving portrayal of Jesus’ suffering that had ever been filmed. Originally scheduled for release in only a handful of countries, The Passion quickly became an international hit, setting box-office and DVD sales records. Did Mel Gibson’s international stardom fuel public interest, or did all the controversy? Probably some of both, but it doesn’t really matter.

What matters most is the effect the film has had and is still having on millions and millions of people. Many Christians credit it for turning their lives around, restoring strained relationships, rescuing them from addiction, healing diseases, deepening their understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice, and strengthening their connection with Him. The reception The Passion has had among those of other faiths is also remarkable. In the Muslim world, the film has received overwhelmingly positive responses from the public and clerics alike. In mainland China, where the government reportedly banned the film due to its spiritual nature, pirated copies have been in high demand, especially by the young. In India, one young moviegoer summed up his experience for many by saying, “I had no idea what Jesus went through! I am deeply touched by His love for me.”

This issue of Activated contains a personal message to you from Jesus in which He explains His true passion and offers you the key to “freedom, peace of mind, joy, happiness, and true love—now and forever.” May this Easter issue bring you closer to Him.

Keith Phillips
For the Activated family