DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Passover and Communion
by Elaine Pierce
As the first-born child in my family, I have often wondered why the ancient world placed such value on the first born (especially the first-born son). I didn't think I had any advantages being the first of three kids; in fact, I often thought my parents were harder on me and that I had to set an example for my younger siblings. There was no inheritance waiting for me just because I was the oldest.
In today's passage, God gives Moses and Aaron very clear instructions for how they will lead their people out of bondage to the Egyptians. These 13 verses describe the Passover, when the angel of death will kill every firstborn Egyptian son, but he will spare the Israelite boys because their homes will be marked with the blood of the lamb. This seems almost barbaric to our 21st century ears, but sacrificing animals was commonplace in these times (and still is in many cultures today). After nine deadly plagues, this one - killing the firstborn - finally broke Pharaoh's will, and he urged Moses and Aaron to take their people and leave Egypt (of course, he changes his mind and tries to stop them - be sure to read on for more of this amazing adventure story).
When we gather at the Lord's table every Sunday and take communion, we are reminded of the Passover. Thousands of years ago, God's people sacrificed "sheep or goats - one-year-old males without defect (v. 5)" Jesus paid the price for our sins - God's son, his first born, his only son - and when we drink the wine and eat the bread we are reminded of his sacrifice.
The body of Christ, given for you. The blood of Christ, shed for you. Meditate on these words as you read Exodus. Jesus is everywhere in scripture. Yes, from the beginning, when God was creating the world:
"Then God said, let us make man in our image, in our likeness..." (Genesis 1:26). God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are our Creators. They were not created. And this mystery is too deep for me to fathom, but as I ponder the Passover, and as I take communion Sunday after Sunday, I am reminded that God is far deeper, far wiser, and beyond my comprehension. Thanks be to God for his word, for the fellowship of believers, and for prayer that invites us into relationship with him!
PRAYER
Lord, I don't understand your ways, but I know you love me and you long for a relationship with me. Thank you for the gift of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Help me each day to follow you more nearly and love you more dearly. Amen.
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