Chosen
Zema Chambers
In the throes of such an emotional week in the life of Jesus,
there was a man sitting in the depths of a prison. He was
certain he would rot there barring something unforeseen.
Barabbas earned a sentence of murder and rebellion. He
knew his days were numbered. Little did he know that soon
his name would be forever associated with an epic experience.
(Matt. 27:15-26)
Had Barabbas heard the commotion of the crowds through
the week? Had he heard about Jesus coming into Jerusalem
with the cheering crowds? The streets were busy with people,
but could he hear from the depths of his dungeon? Suddenly,
he was walking out of the cell and up into daylight.
“Give us Barabbas!” demanded the insatiable crowd. They
knew what they wanted. I wonder if he realized the fervor
wasn’t about him. What picture did Barabbas have in his
mind as he watched the exchange between the guilty and the
innocent? Did Barabbas have a clue in Whose presence he
stood? Jesus knew Barabbas. Jesus knew the sin, the
rebellion and the murderous acts of Barabbas. There he was,
free to go, yet looking at the innocent One who took his place.
Barabbas went free into the crowd, as Jesus was taken. So,
looking forward, we are free because Jesus was taken.
Barabbas was changed by this act. What was thought to be a
decision of an angry mob actually was the plan of our loving
God. God chose Barabbas for freedom. Guess what? He chose
YOU as well.
There’s a song from years ago that says:
You’re chosen, chosen, a child of the King;
Chosen, chosen, you have everything.
Think chosen, live chosen, the path is not so far;
You’re chosen, chosen, remember Whose you are!
Questions:
What did you do the last time you were chosen for a job over
other applicants?
Describe the value you attribute to being chosen.
a. for a game
b. for a job
c. by God
How would a person live who knew that they were chosen by
God?
No comments:
Post a Comment