Barabbas was described as a murderer and one of ‘the rebels in prison. We live among them day after day and no one is killing them. Barabbas had committed murder in the insurrection’. He may have been considered as a hero to the Jews, for he rebelled against the Roman government, which they hated. Nonetheless, he was a criminal who deserved crucifixion. But the chief priests and the crowd wanted this criminal to be released and wanted Jesus to be crucified.

Jesus was innocent. In response to the crowd’s request, Pilate asked “Why, what evil has he done?” affirming His innocence. Pilate’s wife even sent word to him saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man” (Matt 27:19). A person does not have to be guilty to die for a crime they did not commit. This is made possible because humanity’s moral compass is out of balance. But I say let them keep Barabbas and give me Jesus. Case in point George Floyd, to this day no one has stated the real reason for his death. He was killed, murdered. Governments and Leaders would rather close their eyes than speak out against evil, but I pray in Jesus’ name, that You, Father, would turn them or remove them from positions of leadership. In Jesus’ name.

Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, and his wife affirmed the righteousness of Christ. But wanting to satisfy the crowd, which is exactly how some leaders work today as people pleasers; Pilate released Barabbas and delivered Jesus to be crucified. The criminal was acquitted; the innocent punished. Isn’t this a reflection of humanity today? I pray in Jesus’ name, that we, as the people of God, will exercise good judgment and wise counsel, not subscribe to the behaviours of the world but choose Jesus every time for the glory of God. In Jesus’ name. Amen.