Mel Gibson’s controversial film, “The Passion of the Christ,” which is to open on Ash Wednesday next week, takes a look at the final 12 hours of Jesus Christ’s life, during which he was violently and brutally crucified.

It is reported that the film is extremely graphic. Some people feel that the film should not have focused so much on the crucifixion of Christ, but instead on his resurrection. I disagree.

The event of the Son of God’s descent to Earth to offer salvation to people is one of history’s most important events, and is, without a doubt, one of the most serious. In today’s world, many people do not truly comprehend the gravity or significance of this; sadly, slander and insults toward God and Jesus are commonplace.

I am not a Christian, not atheist nor agnostic; in fact, I follow no religion. Nevertheless, I do very much believe that Jesus was crucified to pay for the sins of his disciples, and the extreme pain and agony suffered by the Son of God should not be undervalued. For Jesus to do have done this for people is an immeasurable blessing, and it is something mankind should be very clear about.

Is it appropriate for the film “The Passion of the Christ” to focus on the crucifixion? I think it is, because it is a most graphic vehicle to express the true gravity of what Jesus endured. There are many glorious and resplendent stories of Jesus and his life, all of which are worthy of feature-length motion pictures. To expound on Jesus’ crucifixion, however, is, in my opinion, a good reminder for the people of today’s world about the sacrifice that God was willing to make for people.

Personally, I feel what is critical in the idea of this movie is that it exemplifies and portrays the sacrifice that Jesus made for his disciples, and to display the incredible mercy that he held in his heart for people.

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ was the murder of a God, the most heinous crime. Yet, he endured that suffering out of benevolent compassion for his people. This is something mankind would be wise to treasure and to learn from.

I only hope that people who view this movie and consider this matter will not put great emphasis on the bloody, terrible and violent murder of the Son of God, but will instead consider the loyal heart and the compassion that Jesus had.