God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions.  Ephesians 2:45

Not much is revealed in the Bible about Barabbas except that he was a criminal being held under sentence of death for insurrection and murder. After Jesus’ trial, Pilate released Barabbas and sent Jesus to be crucified. How strange that a criminal should be set free and the sinless, spotless, perfect Son of God should die! In movies about the Easter story, Barabbas displays a detestable demeanor; he is not the sort of person that anyone would die to save. But that is exactly what Jesus did.

When I am tempted to look down on people as unworthy of salvation, I remember that Jesus died to save Barabbas just as he died for me — and everyone else in the world. God loves everyone equally, and Jesus died for the sins of each of us, without exception. In the sight of God, everyone has equal access to the gift of salvation though Jesus Christ our Lord.

Thank you, God, for the gift of salvation. Help us to see others with your eyes of love. Amen.