Will this be your "passion week"?

I've missed writing the past couple of days due to going to Mobile, Alabama where my son, Alan, attends the University of Mobile. UM is a wonderful little Baptist school that has been so very impressive in the short couple of years that I've really been aware of its existence. If you are considering a school to attend (or have a family member or friend looking for a school) give UM a close look. It is fine academically, but perhaps where it stands out in a crowd is the emphasis which is placed upon preparing each student to be able to make a difference in the lives of people. I know that Alan has benefited so much from his first two years there.

The purpose for our trip to Mobile was to attend the University Choir's presentation of "The Savior", a modern oratorio (a choral work based upon Scripture, usually without accompanying drama). Alan is a member of the choir. My, what an outstanding performance by a very talented group of young people. It was such a moving experience.

Being Palm Sunday, the choir's presentation was a great beginning to what is usually refered to as the Passion Week. It is so named because of the passionate way Jesus approached His appointment with the cross of Calvary . . . the very reason He left heaven and came to this Earth. You can read the Gospel accounts of this week in Matthew chapters 21-27, Mark 11-15, Luke 19-23, and John chapters 12-19. You may want to read one of these Gospel accounts each night this week as a part of your own observance of Passion Week.

Most importantly, every person needs to address the question as to what you are truly passionate about. If you have never accepted Jesus Christ's offer to forgive your sins and give you the free gift of eternal life, your life's passion will be about anything except your relationship with God through Jesus. However, if you are a believer, your passion must be Jesus, or you are not attuned to God's purpose for your life. Unfortunately, few Christians possess a real passion for the Lord and are sidetracked by the many things this world seeks to get us to focus upon. I encourage all of us to spend time this week doing some honest evaluation, confessing our sins to the Lord, and lifting our hearts in passionate worship for the One who was passionate in His love for mankind.