If you haven’t had the opportunity to see Hacksaw Ridge, I encourage you to make time this weekend to go see it in theaters. This powerful film directed by Mel Gibson tells the story of an unlikely war hero. The message of the film is clear – “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

HACKSAW RIDGE is the extraordinary true story of WWII medic Desmond Doss, played by Andrew Garfield (The Amazing Spiderman), who, in Okinawa during the bloodiest battle of WWII, miraculously saved 75 men in a matter of hours without firing or carrying a gun. He was the only American soldier in WWII to fight on the front lines without a weapon, except the simple prayer he uttered before he single-handedly evacuated the wounded from behind enemy lines, under constant enemy gunfire and artillery bombardment.

Doss’ courage and faith won the admiration of his commanders and fellow soldiers, as he saved the lives of the very men who had persecuted him for refusing to carry a gun. He believed the war was just, but to kill under any circumstance was wrong. Doss was labeled the first conscientious objector (he called himself a “conscientious cooperator” as he volunteered) to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. Hacksaw Ridge is directed by Mel Gibson (Braveheart, The Passion of the Christ) and also stars Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey, Teresa Palmer, Hugo Weaving, Rachel Griffiths and Vince Vaughn.”

Although the film does contain a great deal of violence (and is not recommended for small children), there are many lessons to be learned from the story. There is no doubt that you will walk away feeling inspired after witnessing the courageous acts of a young man as he never gives up on his faith.