April 3, 2026 - Crucifixion Day

Jesus’ reason for leaving Heaven was for this day and for this purpose.  It was for this moment in history when He would stand before religious and civil courts to be sentenced to death. He was accused of blasphemy by the High Priest and according to Leviticus 24:16, whoever blasphemes the name of the Lord shall surely be put to death. All the congregation shall certainly stone him, the stranger as well as him who is born in the land. When he blasphemes the name of the Lord, he shall be put to death should be stoned.   However, because of Roman rule that sentence would be carried out by crucifixion.  The Passover Feast was to be celebrated on this night and preparations were taking place.  One unique event for Passover was Rome’s releasing of a prisoner. Death would pass over one man. 

Appearing before the High Priest and the Roman Governor, Jesus was questioned, slapped, stripped naked, spit upon, insulted, and humiliated.  Then the Roman Governor, Pilate asked,  “Is Jesus, Your King, the one that you would have me release?”  They shouted their answer, “CRUCIFY HIM!”  Give us Barabas.  Barabas, a murderer, robber, and insurrectionist was set free and our Savior was crucified. 

The day when darkness covered the earth and The Son was separated from The Father, when Jesus suffered, bled, and died, we call Good Friday.  

How is that possible? 

Because it was GOOD for Barabas, the sinner, who walked away free.  No longer guilty as charged.  It was GOOD because he was no longer in bondage facing death.  GOOD because Jesus died instead of Him. 

Today is GOOD FRIDAY and I am Barabas!