Written by Aisha Darwesh
The Word
39 But you have a custom that I should release one man for you at the Passover. So do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” 40 They cried out again, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber.
John 18:39-40
Aisha’s Analysis
This week’s verses show us just how graciously God responds to the shameful wickedness of humanity. His love is truly limitless. Let’s take a look at this from Barabbas’ perspective.
Imagine you have committed atrocious acts of crime such as murder, robbery, and treason, and you are 100% guilty as charged. The penalty for such crimes is crucifixion, arguably one of the most excruciatingly painful ways to die. How would you feel and what would you do?
Now, imagine in that same scenario, a completely innocent stranger graciously steps in for you and takes your punishment while you walk away scot-free and totally unharmed. How would you feel and how would you respond to that person?
Friends, that is exactly what Jesus has done for us. We are all like Barabbas. We have all sinned against God and deserve eternal damnation. God would not be unjust in unleashing the full extent of His wrath on us. But what did He do instead? He stepped in and took the fall for us.
Yes, it was the embittered and raving mob that cried out to crucify Jesus instead of Barabbas, but Jesus was not subject to the demands of the mob. He could have walked away at any moment. Even a corrupt politician like Pilate could discern that Jesus was completely innocent.
Jesus chose to redeem Barabbas, and He chooses to redeem us. We are totally free from the bondage of sin and eternal punishment because Jesus graciously stepped in for “Barab(us)!” Hallelujah! There’s nothing we could do to ever deserve our kind and generous Savior. Praise God He does not deal with us on the basis of what we deserve. If He did, we would be utterly hopeless–just like Barabbas was before Jesus came into the picture.
Application
In today’s text, we see a stark contrast between Jesus Barabbas and Jesus the Christ. Barabbas represents humanity at its worst and Jesus, the spotless lamb who died in his place.
No matter what you may be facing at this moment, take comfort in knowing God has got you. He already accounted for your sin and made a way for you to be completely justified in His sight. As hard as life can be sometimes, it is a true comfort to know that our eternity with God is secured.
Not only that, but you can also experience fellowship with God right now. You don’t have to wait until you crossover to the other side of Heaven to know God. While we don’t see any record of what became of Barabbas, you can make a decision to honor Christ’s sacrifice and devote your life to knowing Him. Knowing Him is eternal life (John 17:3).
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for taking my place on the cross. Your sacrifice has opened the door for me to experience true fellowship with God. As a display of my gratitude, I want to spend the rest of my days seeking You and following Your ways. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
City Life Starter 
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