Luke 23:2-25
I’ve always found it
interesting how much Jesus gets bounced around in His final hour; first the
council and then Pilate, and then Herod, and then Pilate again. By hook or by crook this mob was determined
to see Jesus crucified; so much so that they were willing to release a murderer
in His place. There was a custom of
releasing a prisoner at the time of Passover so you would think it might make
sense to let Jesus go. You know, the guy
who was performing miracles, healing the lame, raising the dead, loving on
others, and preaching and teaching a new message and a new way with great
authority. It makes perfect sense that
Jesus should be the one who gets released at this point. Unfortunately this mob was not about making
sense. They were more about protecting their own interests and power structures. As I write I’m realizing my use of the word
“unfortunately” was perhaps not the best choice of words. I say unfortunately thinking of the pain,
suffering, and shame, he’s about to go through, but it’s quite fortunate for us
that He did.
I wonder if Barabbas ever
came to realize just how fortunate he was.
He might have escaped death that time, but it’s still coming. If Jesus died for the sins of all mankind then
He died for the sins of Barabbas too. I
hope for his sake somewhere along the way Barabbas realizes that not only did
Jesus save his life in that moment, but that Jesus is also the one who can save
his life for all eternity.
Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus, because
of the unfortunate circumstances of Your death I am most certainly fortunate
today. I’m thankful that in Your divine
will and sovereignty they released Barabbas and not You. You loved me that much Lord Jesus, and I’m
forever thankful for such great fortune.
Amen.
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