Passover
Reading: Exodus 12:1-27
“It is the passover sacrifice to the Lord, for he passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt.”
Passover and Holy Week are forever connected and frequently celebrated at the same time. Jesus is sometimes called the Passover lamb. It was the Feast of the Passover that Jesus and his disciples were observing in the Upper Room in Jerusalem. The original observance of Passover marked the release of the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. On Easter Christians remember their release from captivity to sin. At the heart of each observance is a sacrifice.
Passover is probably the oldest of Jewish feasts. It is celebrated in the spring to remember the Exodus, and especially the knowledge that the angel of death “passed over” the house of the Israelites. God’s deliverance of the people is remembered with joy and gratitude.
Passover is an important part of the Biblical covenant, whether Old or New. By rescuing the people of Israel from the Egyptians God made good the covenant promise of land and safety. Through the years of wandering and resettlement, God continued to provide for God’s people. In the death and resurrection of Jesus, God has once again redeemed the promise of safety and freedom.
For Reflection: What does the Passover mean to me?
A Prayer Seed:
The day of resurrection! Earth, tell it out abroad;
The Passover of gladness, the Passover of God.
From death to life eternal, from this world to the sky,
Our Christ hath brought us over with hymns of victory.
John of Damascus (c. 675-749)
