My last blog entry was about how Barabbas’ life was literally saved by Jesus. https://thankfulinallthings.com/barabbas-crucify-him-crucify-him/ You have to wonder how Jesus dying on the cross impacted Barabbas once he found out he was freed. The other character in the story is Pontius Pilate. One has to wonder how Jesus dying and the reports he had been resurrected would have changed his life. One thing is for sure. He should have listened to his wife. Matthew 27:19 states, “While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message, saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous Man; for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him.”
We are not sure how Jesus life, death and resurrection impacted Barabbas and Pilate but John 12:9 that Jesus raising Lazarus from the death impacted those who were there when it happened or heard about it. “Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.” I would hope that both Barabbas and the Pontius Pilate would, having seen the error of their ways, have sought out those who were Christ’s followers so they too, could begin a life changing faith journey.
But what about us? Has God impacted our lives in such a way that people want to hear your story like they wanted to hear from Lazarus? The scriptures are clear. We are to be ambassadors for Christ. https://www.biblehub.com/2_corinthians/5-20.htm People are to know we are people of faith by our love. https://biblehub.com/john/13-35.htm Those around you will be attracted to God because of the fruit of the spirit found in Galatians 5:22,23 you produce. https://www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/fruit-of-the-spirit
I think Lazarus learned from the blind man who when asked about Jesus said, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” John 9:25 It may not have been as dramatic but, “Has God made Himself real in your life?” If so, are crowds or even individuals coming to you because they want to hear your story? If not, what needs to change about how you are living your life. If so, are you prepared in the way Peter challenges us in Peter 3:15 “ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” We may not have been made to see or hear but when we encounter God through Christ, we can say as in proclaimed in the song Amazing Grace,
My chains are gone, I’ve been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, amazing grace https://genius.com/Chris-tomlin-amazing-grace-my-chains-are-gone-lyrics
I wish this for each and everyone of you who has read this blog. My hope is that Barabbas, Pilate and his wife also realized this truth and found themselves saved by the One who came to save us all. That would be wonderful if true. Please subscribe to this blog if you haven’t already and share it with others who you think might be encouraged by it. I can be reached by email at [email protected]
Last week I shared my word for 2023, RISE. In the blog, I shared that I want to RISE UP/P this year. I want to be Resolved, Intentional, Serving, Expectantly Unleashing God’s Purpose and Passion. Interestingly enough, I had the chance to listen to a Podcast where my thoughts were challenged. The guest on the show took exception to the concept of a Purpose Driven Life that Rick Warren wrote in his best selling book twenty years ago 
