“Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate appealed to them again.  But they kept shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” For the third time he spoke to them: “Why? What crime has this man committed? I have found in him no grounds for the death penalty. Therefore I will have him punished and then release him.” But with loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed.  So Pilate decided to grant their demand.  He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, the one they asked for, and surrendered Jesus to their will.” (Luke 23:20-25)

     A crowd mentality seemed to prevail when it came to the decision to crucify Jesus.  Instead of Barrabas, an insurrectionist and murderer, Jesus took his place, and he did so willingly. 

    This serves as a timeless precedent for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord.  Jesus paid the price, and we are freed.  It did not, and still does not seem fair, but our righteous judge acted according to the will of God.  He cared enough for us to make it happen, and thankfully, we are recipients of the love he has for us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, when I first read the account of how you gave yourself up for us, it didn’t make sense, but once I realized why you were doing this, it makes all of the sense in the world.  Thank you for giving all of us the choice to be redeemed and to be with you forever.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.