As Easter approaches and messages of God’s mercy and grace are preached, I can’t help but wonder about the man called Barabbas. As an inmate with hopes of knowing freedom from prison again one day it’s hard not to see his life from a prisoners perspective. He had little to look forward to. He likely would have met the same fate as Jesus had not the mercy of God included his freedom in part of his plan. The Bible doesn’t tell us what happened to him one he was released. We can only guess as to the rest of his story. It’s hard for me to think that the event that secured his release left him unchanged. How could he not wonder at this man who took his place? I’ve entitled the following “What of Barabbas?”
What of Barabbas?
By Matt Graziotti
Have you ever pondered on that day
His chains came off he walked away
Where did he go, what did he do
Consider now an inmate’s view
He’s one portrayed a dissident
Defying Rome and violent
He lacked control and stoked sedition
Then for murder thrown in prison
Named a killer condemned to die
Clearly written that none deny
There scripture ends no mention more
Of life beyond that open door
Perhaps he died the wretched vile
Man we meet at Pilate’s Trial
But did he hear them whip my lord
See blood spill, Christ’s forehead gores
Suppose Barabbas went to the cross
And saw the man who’d suffered loss
To gain his freedom and paved the way
To life anew for him that day
Picture the look upon his face
Who is this man that took my place?
It should be me he may have cried
While masses watched as Jesus died
He had to wonder at this gift
Of kingdom life no more bereft
Of love and care, sincere concern
The righteous died for him he’d learn
His end we’ll know in heaven anon
We may know now if one had gone
And shared of hope to him in chains
Christ died for men the world disdains
I’m glad this prisoners’ been forgiven
Who’ll tell those left of Jesus risen
So many change and turn from sin
Cause he still saves the worst of men
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