What Jesus Did! 'Release!' — Mark 15:6-8

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Every year at the Passover time the governor would free one person from the prison. He would free any person the people wanted him to free. At that time, there was a man named Barabbas in prison. He was in prison with the rebels. These rebels were guilty of murder during a riot. The people came to Pilate and asked him to free a prisoner like he always did.
— Mark 15:6-8 NLT
Illustration of Mark 15:6-8 NLT — The people came to Pilate and asked him to free a prisoner like he always did.

Key Thought

Jesus' ministry was all about release—release from the power of death, release from the power of disease, release from the power of the devil, release... We shouldn't find it surprising that as Jesus' death sentence approaches, the issue of release is front and center on people's minds. The Cross is about release—our release at the cost of Jesus' freedom, Jesus' comfort, and Jesus' life.

Today's Prayer

For my freedom, dear Father in heaven, I thank you. I know my freedom from the power of sin and death came at such a great price. I know that in many ways, I am Barabbas—deserving punishment but granted freedom because of your Son. Thank you. In Jesus' name I praise you. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Luke 4:16-21
  • Hebrews 2:14-15
  • Romans 7:24-25

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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