Category: Bible (Page 389 of 420)

I’ve always been partial to Biblical names for children. So it’s insightful to read how people in the Bible actually went about naming their children.

Leah bore several children in a loveless marriage. She named them based on how she felt at the time about her marriage and the Lord. The names were shortened versions of her feelings when she gave birth.

Her first son carried a sense of relief in his name – it is because the Lord has seen my misery, surely my husband will love me now (Rueben).

The second, not so much – because the Lord heard that I am not loved (Simeon).

The third, hopeful – now at last my husband will become attached to me (Levi).

And the fourth, finally giving up on her husband, Leah focuses fully on the goodness of God – this time I will praise the Lord (Judah).

The story within the story never ceases to amaze me. Just like our stories within other stories within the story God is telling today.

Genesis 29 in week four of reading the Bible cover to cover.

In a dank cell under the seat of judgement, Barabbas heard the crowd. From where he sat he could only make out shouts, not conversations. In prison for insurrection and murder, Barabbas awaited his punishment. Was today the day?

He heard his name yelled from the crowd, “Barabbas!” Closer, again and again, “Barabbas!” Hope rose. He knew the tradition of releasing a prisoner on this festival day. Were people really pushing for his freedom?

Then, after a quiet pause, Barabbas picked up cries of, “crucify him!” No. Seconds later, the mob roared in unmistakable fury, “CRUCIFY HIM!” Barabbas sank to his knees. Hope fled.

Guards dragged Barabbas from his cell. He slumped before the crowd, expecting the worst. Instead, Pilate unshackled Barabbas and sent him away. No one cared. Rage focused on another man on the platform.

Barabbas lived and Jesus died. A simple trade. I always wonder what happened to Barabbas? Did his eyes meet those of Jesus as he realized his good fortune? Did he follow Jesus through the streets to Golgotha, or did he skip town as fast as possible? What did he think of the resurrection stories soon sweeping through Israel?

And ultimately, did he understand that Jesus saved him – both on that day and for eternity?

Mark 15 in week three of reading the Bible cover to cover.