During Desmond’s trial he says, “While everybody else is taking life, I’m gonna be saving it.” He has deep principles he stands up for in the film. He volunteers to join the army—not to fight but to help save lives. Think about Paul. He grew up a Pharisee. He knew the law of God better than anyone and was strict in holding people to it, to the point of even killing Christians. One day, God met him on the road to Damascus and changed his life forever. From that day forward, Paul became a pioneer in bringing the Gospel to the gentiles. He also wrote the majority of the books found in the new testament. Look at Acts 20:24! “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me— the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (NIV). Does any of this remind you of Desmond?
Passions and principle are driving forces in your life. Some of them are good and some bad. Think about the best cause you have. Even that cause, no matter how good it is, is not why you’re here. You’re here to proclaim the good news of Christ. Look at 1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIV) “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
In the movie, Desmond and his platoon get sent to Hacksaw Ridge in the battle of Okinawa. He experiences unimaginable horrors in a short amount of time. After two days of fighting, the U.S. starts to retreat because of the invasion from the Japanese army. As Desmond goes to the edge of the cliff (to escape) he asks God what he’s supposed to do. Instead of going down the side of the cliff he turns around to help others. He ends up saving the lives of 75 people, giving them the gift of life. This happens in life—you get pushed to the edge of yourself—the edge of the cliff—and are finally able to hear what God has been trying to tell you.
You need to ask God what you’re supposed to do because there are people all around you screaming out for help. They’re dying inside and don’t even realize it. It may be your best friend, your co-worker, your next-door neighbor. It could even be a family member or someone you play golf with. I believe God wants you to bring a message of hope to that person, to share His love, forgiveness, and mercy. Matthew 28:19-20 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” (NIV). Help bring your friends to the foot of the cross.
You have a direct order from Jesus, a mission! He is sending you. Be willing to tell others about Jesus and to invite them to church. Read Luke 19:1-10, the story of Zacchaeus. He was desperate to get to Jesus and never guessed how desperate Jesus was to get to him. Live for God, not for yourself. Remember why you are here!