The events of the Exodus were not to be history alone but commemorated yearly by God’s people as a festival (12:14). Who may eat the Passover? God’s people: by covenant-keeping, not blood relation. Both native-born and foreigners were able to celebrate the Passover only if they had willfully joined God’s covenant, symbolized through circumcision. It was an intentional act of obedience, much like baptism is for us. We celebrate our New Covenant with Jesus by sharing communion, especially every Easter. It is a time to rejoice in what Jesus has done for us: Jesus delivered us from bondage to sin and gave us new life with him forever. Our response is baptism. May all of us who have received this gift faithfully celebrate Easter.

The Passover had special significance for the firstborn, whose lives were spared by the blood of the lamb. But the implications of the Passover impacted their calendar (12:2), and how they raised their children (13:8-10). To have it as “a sign on the hand and symbol on the forehead” suggests this was intentionally allowed to impact the actions and thoughts of everyday living. This would draw children to ask and understand, perpetuating God’s grace down each generation. Does my celebration of Easter, and daily meditation on the gospel, impact my life in such a way?
Application: Father, may I live, think, and speak in a way that reveals the power of the gospel in me.
One Word: Live as redeemed people