Little is known about Barabbas beyond the fact that he was an insurrectionist and a murderer. His anonymity suits him well, for he represents each one of us. Was Barabbas guilty of sins against God and man? So are we. Was Barabbas under a sentence of death? So are we. The cross was intended not only for Barabbas, but for each of us. We should have died there but God had a better plan: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.”
— 1 Peter 2:24 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, You died that we might live. Help us to live lives worthy of Your death. In Your holy name I pray. Amen.