Monday – Gospels

Reading – Luke 23

Highlight Verse:

“As they had requested, he released Barabbas, the man in prison for insurrection and murder. But he turned Jesus over to them to do as they wished.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Barabbas was a murderer and insurrectionist.

And literally the first person to benefit from Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.

True, we don’t know if he repented and trusted Jesus.

In fact, we have no idea what happened to him after the crucifixion.

It seems likely that he would have been moved to repentance by the sacrifice of Jesus.

Some early sources say that his first name was Jesus. And “Barabbas” translates to son of the father.

So, Pilate substituted one Jesus for another, both of whom were known for their relationships with their fathers.

Coincidence?

Probably.

What isn’t coincidence is the fact that Jesus directly took the place of someone who needed redemption.

And if that first sacrifice could be made for someone who clearly did not deserve it,

there is no one for whom Jesus would not die.

Is there anyone you know who doesn’t deserve to be forgiven?
If Jesus can forgive them (He can), is there any reason why you couldn’t forgive that person?