Today’s scripture reading is John 18.
Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?” They shouted in reply, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a bandit. –John 18:38-40 (NRSV)
In Pilate’s day, it was customary to release a prisoner. Finding no case against Jesus, Pilate had the power to release him. Instead, he decided to let the crowd make the decision as to whether or not Jesus should be freed. The crowd, given the choice between Jesus and a man named Barabbas, chose Barabbas to be released.
If you had been in the crowd that day, which one would you have chosen to be released? Both Barabbas and Jesus had been charged with being insurrectionists, leading a revolt against Rome. Both had been accused of claiming to be King of the Jews. The major difference between the two men was their understanding of messiahship.
Barabbas led by force. According to the other gospel accounts, he was fueled by violence and hatred. His kingdom would be built by the sword, becoming stronger than Rome and then beating them into submission.
Jesus’ understanding of messiahship was built on sacrificial love. Instead of calling people to violence, he called people to turn the other cheek. He taught to love one’s enemies and to bless those who persecute. His power came not from the sword but from the cross. His strength was made perfect in weakness.
It’s tempting to trust in power like Barabbas’ more than power as defined by Jesus. May God grant you the grace to choose Jesus instead, to claim the power of Christ’s sacrificial love in your life.
