Freedom Isn't Free

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed. Luke 4:18

At the time of Jesus’ arrest, a cold-hearted criminal was also in prison. His name was Barabbas. Barabbas was a murderer and robber. Jesus was brought before Pontus Pilate, Governor of Judea. It was Pilate’s job to question the prisoners and decide on punishment. In fact, Pilate was the only one that could decide if Jesus should be put to death. Pilate was amazed that Jesus didn’t respond to one charge against him. Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent BUT, he was afraid of the people. It was a tradition that one prisoner was allowed to go free at the Passover Feast. The people could choose who that would be. They chose Barabbas, a hardened criminal, officially found guilty. Instead, the angry hate filled mob screamed to have Jesus crucified. Jesus, the Messiah, officially found not guilty would die on the cross. Jesus was given the punishment that Barabbas deserved. But then again, it was the punishment I deserved too.

For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God. Romans 3:23

We are free today to choose between heaven and hell. Our sins are covered in the blood of Jesus Christ. This covering is not so we can do and say anything we want but so that we can have a relationship with God Almighty and serve others humbly. Jesus took our place, just like he took Barabbas’s place.

Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe.

Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

True and ultimate freedom is found in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.” (John 14:6) Let us praise His Name always as we remember His shed blood for us all at Calvary!