Barabas

BARABAS
By Allen R. Alderman

Were you there, Barabas,
The day that Jesus died?
Did you see Him stumble up that hill?
Did you hear their mournful cries?
Did you watch in fascination
As they nailed Him to the cross?
Did you think about the life you'd gained
In return for what He'd lost?

We have a lot in common,
Barabas, you and I,
Though oceans separate us
And centuries divide.
A bond was forged between us
As He hung upon that tree,
For on the day He took your place,
He also died for me.

I was just as guilty,
My sins were just as great,
My life was just as worthless
Deserving that same fate.
But, oh, the blood of Jesus!
None other would suffice
To wash away my guilty stains
And pay sin's heavy price.

I hope you were there, Barabas,
I truly hope you saw,
And as the sun grew dark that day,
I hope you stood in awe
To see so great a love
Displayed so willingly
And knew the King who died for you
Had truly set you free.

Someday, dear Barabas,
I hope to see your face.
We'll dance in jubilation
And we'll sing Amazing Grace.
Brothers, not by mortal flesh,
But through the blood of Calvary
That broke the chains that held us bound
And set the guilty free.