In a dank cell under the seat of judgement, Barabbas heard the crowd. From where he sat he could only make out shouts, not conversations. In prison for insurrection and murder, Barabbas awaited his punishment. Was today the day?

He heard his name yelled from the crowd, “Barabbas!” Closer, again and again, “Barabbas!” Hope rose. He knew the tradition of releasing a prisoner on this festival day. Were people really pushing for his freedom?

Then, after a quiet pause, Barabbas picked up cries of, “crucify him!” No. Seconds later, the mob roared in unmistakable fury, “CRUCIFY HIM!” Barabbas sank to his knees. Hope fled.

Guards dragged Barabbas from his cell. He slumped before the crowd, expecting the worst. Instead, Pilate unshackled Barabbas and sent him away. No one cared. Rage focused on another man on the platform.

Barabbas lived and Jesus died. A simple trade. I always wonder what happened to Barabbas? Did his eyes meet those of Jesus as he realized his good fortune? Did he follow Jesus through the streets to Golgotha, or did he skip town as fast as possible? What did he think of the resurrection stories soon sweeping through Israel?

And ultimately, did he understand that Jesus saved him – both on that day and for eternity?

Mark 15 in week three of reading the Bible cover to cover.