Barabbas Is Me

Today I ate the word from Mark Chapters 13 to 16. Usually, I read only one or two chapters a day, but today I realised that only three chapters were left! So I felt encouraged to continue reading all four chapters and finish "The Gospel of Mark". As I write this, I feel so joyful!

In Mark 13, I saw Jesus preparing his disciples for what was coming. Even when He spoke about difficult days ahead, He didn't leave them without hope. He told them to stay alert and stand firm. That made me think, can I also remain faithful when things around me are not easy? I learnt that a Christovert should learn to stand firm like Jesus taught His disciples.

Then in Mark 14. Jesus knew He was going to suffer, yet He still chose Father's will. "Not what I will, but what You will." And when the high priest asked Him if He was the Messiah, Jesus said, "I am." That gave me so much joy! He didn't hide who he was, even when He knew what it would cost Him. I want that courage and security in Jesus too. Amen!

Then came Mark 15, and my heart broke. Barabbas really made me pause. He was guilty, but he walked out free while Jesus was condemned. BARABBAS IS ME. I AM BARABBAS (When I was reflecting this, I was humming the song 'I'm Barabbas' by Josiah Queen🎶 in the background😁) Jesus took his place, and Jesus took mine!! Then Jesus was mocked, spat on, insulted and crucified. He could have saved Himself, but He chose to stay. For me. Woah! WHAT KIND OF LOVE IS THIS?

And then in Mark 16... THE TOMB WAS EMPTY! 😭❤️ Jesus is alive! The One who suffered, died and was buried rose again! We may know the story already, but reading it again from the gospels actually make me journey again, and gave a lot of calories for my inner man.

Precious Holy Spirit, help me not just read about Jesus, but become more like him. Give me His courage, obedience, humility, love and faithfulness. Make me a Christovert who follows Jesus even when it costs me. Help the readers too. Father God, I love You!

In Jesus' name, Amen.