KHCS Radio - Joy 92FM - The Desert's Christian Radio

March 2004

Dear friend of KHCS,

As I write this, Mel Gibson’s controversial film, The Passion of the Christ is about to be released.

Please allow me to point out that the controversy has been created by critics who have not seen the film, not by the film itself.

I expect that it will be in the movie theaters by the time you receive this letter, and you may even have seen it.

I also expect that no synagogues have been burned down, nor have we seen hundreds of Jewish people beaten in the streets because of its message.

However, with all the advance publicity about this film, it is a wonderful opportunity for us to invite our non-Christian friends to see the movie and then discuss the meaning of the Cross. For without the crucifixion, there would have been no resurrection and thus no salvation.

And if there remains any notion that The Passion of the Christ is anti-Semitic, consider the words of Orthodox Jewish Rabbi Daniel Lapin:

“I believe those who protest Mel Gibson’s film lack moral legitimacy. What is more, I believe their actions are not only wrong but even recklessly ill-advised and shockingly imprudent.” Other Jewish leaders stand in agreement.

Since none of the Jewish people of today were in existence 2000 years ago, it is the height of folly to blame them for something that happened so long ago. Anti-Semitic groups like White Aryan Resistance, La Voz de Aztlan and the Nation of Islam are ‘way off-base by calling Jews “Christ-killers.”

Besides, if Jesus was not crucified, according to prophecy, to satisfy the punishment for our sins ─ yours and mine ─ then we could not be saved! Thus, the Crucifixion, for all its horror, was ultimately a Good Thing.

Remember, if Christ had called upon the legions of angels at his command and had not been crucified, there would have not been a resurrection nor an ascension to His Father. We would still be in our sins.

So, as Galatians 6:10 instructs us, let us do good to all people. And “all people” certainly includes the Jewish people.

And you can also do good to the desert communities by faithfully supporting KHCS. We are the only locally-owned and operated English-speaking Christian radio voice in the Coachella Valley.

As we are well along into 2004, our income needs are still barely being met. You may be among the many who receive these monthly, informative letters but have never contributed to this ministry.

Since KHCS is a non-commercial 501©(3) ministry, we cannot just sell more advertising. It is illegal for us to sell any air time for any reason.

Thus, I am asking you to do your part in our support. Many people contribute $25 each month. Many $40 or $50. Some more; some less. But, each tax-deductible contribution is important and it helps us to keep on bringing you Information and Inspiration, 24 hours a day.