Today’s author is Prince of Peace member Steve Sveom.
The reading from John 18:28-40 tells the story of Jesus before Pilate. In reading this story the circumstances would appear to reveal Jesus in a very vulnerable position. He is under the control of the High Priest and then under the jurisdiction of the Roman authority, Pilate. They seem to have the power, yet they are the ones who seem tentative and confused. Jesus is the one who is measured and stable, who despite circumstances seems to be in control. The question might be asked “Who is on trial in this story?”
But there is one more character in this drama. His name is Barabbas. Pilate presents him as an alternative to Jesus. The people could allow Jesus to be free and Barabbas to be condemned. Or, Barabbas could be set free and Jesus condemned. The Aramaic translation of “Bar” is “son.” “Abba” means “father.” So, the name Barabbas means son of the father. This places the gathering in the position of choosing between Barabbas, the son of the father, and Jesus, who is the son of the Father. John would have us choose who deserves our devotion.
In the gospel, Barabbas is described as a “rebel.” Another translation for that word is “bandit.” “Bandit” is the same word as used in John 10 which describes the bandit as one who enters the sheepfold by a way other than the gate. Jesus is contrasted to the “bandit” as the good Shepherd who enters by the gate and who leads the sheep. We give thanks for the good Shepherd who has called us by name and who lays down his life out of love for the sheep. This is the power of love, in contrast to the religious leaders, the Roman authority and the bandit.
Good Shepherd, your love is beyond all understanding and we give thanks. Help us to choose love as our way to live this day. Amen.
