Day 31: Ew, Barabbas

Luke 23:1-25; Genesis 41; Psalm 32

Herod is actually excited about getting to see Jesus—one of the few leaders in this time that was—but it was more out of interest in the miracles and wonders that Jesus worked, not his message.  It was like Jesus was a circus animal to Herod and he wanted to see him perform.  This is just one of the ways that people abuse God's true identity.  I may not be fully aware or able to understand who God is and what he is capable of, but I know that it is not just some exciting attraction to gape at.

I always disliked Barabbas.  And I'm sure I'm not alone.  He's the murdering crazy man who was set free so that Jesus could take his place and die on the cross.  I picture him as a dirty, stinky, toothless, buffoon, with an evil glint in his eyes, always watching for some vulnerable soul to hurt or steal from.

And yet—I am Barabbas.

I am the person who had been locked up for doing horrible things:  hurting others, prideful attitude, selfish behavior; Jesus set me free, he took my place.  I can’t hate Barabbas, because I am him.  Ugh, that hurts my heart and head.

Some lessons for Joseph’s life:  first, patience.  Things do not occur when I’m sure Joseph wanted or expected, however, Joseph, whether he is waiting patiently or not, learns a lot of respect and reverence while waiting.  Secondly, give credit where credit is due.  God answers our  prayers and provide for us in abundance.  We need to make sure that we praise him for it every day and every moment we think of it.  Third, don’t underestimate the power of God’s plan.  Joseph made a global impact, something he could not have done without living his life in God's hands.

From this psalm we learn of the power of unconfessed sin:  being swept away in a raging flood.  May The Lord reveal our sins so that we can be washed clean and not swept away by them.  Whatever is hiding in our hearts, may the Lord make it known so that we can begin to remove it and not be swept away.