- In Christ Alone -

Yesterday I got the opportunity to watch the film directed by Mel Gibson, The Passion of The Christ with my small group before the Ash Wednesday service. I was glad to watch it once more because the last time I watched it I was practicing the Buddhist faith. I remember watching it on the big screen and was getting emotionally drained, it was hard to see a man, let alone the Son of God, be tortured like that and knowing it just wasn't right. My mom and I cried when it came to Jesus' death, and I forget why we wanted to see it (other than possible word of mouth) but now my thoughts are I am so glad I watched it several years ago...

As I watched it last night, I could identify all the key events and remembrances of Christ teaching his disciples and being amongst friends clearly (maybe not to the pinpoint of each scriptural reference but at least identify). And I was so thankful, it just seems like it was a few days ago I asked Christ into my heart asking God to "Teach me Your ways" and I'm glad my walk since then has been an abundance of God's teachings, not just of what was depicted in the movie. The other part that I thought was sweet was even though it was difficult to have a illustration of my Savior being persecuted, brutally tortured (which I've heard back in the day it was many, many times worse than what the movie could display), I knew God was in control, that Jesus' crucifixion was meant to be and that my own sins that I commit and have committed would be taken away. My eyes welled up many times throughout the movie, and that too is a difference from last time. As a Christian now, my heart is a lot softer than it was before. The last bit which was like sweet honey to my lips was knowing Jesus endured and died, but 'up from the grave he rose again'. "In Christ Alone" was playing in my head and in my heart. I had full understanding of the victory that Christ had over sin and that I could rejoice as well. Previously, I had not even the slightest clue of any of this but now I can praise Him forever.

Thoughts On The Song Verses...

Verse 1:
Jesus, you are the great light of the world. By following you I will never walk in darkness.
John 8:12

Verse 2:
Jesus, you love everyone so very much that you died to take away our sins that could devour us (to reconcile us)...whether we knew you or not.
Romans 5:6-8 & Romans 5:9-11

Verse 3:
Jesus, you gave your life away for a death that others deserved. In which you became victorious for "death itself worked backwards" (emphasis from Narnia). I live according to your truth and in your victory.
Psalm 44:5-7

Verse 4:
"Up to your cross I crawl, now I am standing 10 feet tall. Jesus my Savior look what you've done for me!" ~Tree 63 - Look What You've Done. (YouTube it!)
Ephesians 3:17-19 & Job 11:14-16

*Edit (4/10/09): There's a fun story that I would like to share about the recording process of the song...It started with me thinking of pairing up with a violinist (John) and just having guitar and vocals with it. Then it went to me calling another vocalist (Alana) who was doing work with a pianist (Thomas). And turns out both of them were available that night! It doesn't stop there...we come back to my apartment to setup and my roommate, a guitarist and vocalist, Eric shows up and joins us. Then my other roommate comes in (Sky) and he helps us with some blending and giving us pointers. I couldn't believe how much God provided for me and my thoughts on just recording something for this blog. It was such a fun and blessed night! I couldn't also do it without you friends! Thank You. =Þ