I like reading about the Passover tradition that Moses speaks of because it is one of those traditions we still see celebrated today by the Jewish community. I realize other festivals are also celebrated and commemorated, but it seems like the Passover, like Hanukkah, is more visible to non-Jews.
In particular, I experienced a seder meal before as presented by a Jewish Christian group years ago. I have also shared that tradition a time or two with children as part of our children’s ministry programming. These are traditions that Jesus would have celebrated with his family and friends. Somehow, just imagining that brings the festival to life for me, too. As a Christ follower, it makes our relationship more intimate, at least to me, to understand his upbringing and tradition.
David and I are watching a series on Mary Magdalene all in Spanish on Netflix. While there are some discrepancies from a Biblical standpoint, they are doing a fantastic job of presenting the backdrop of history going on around Jesus during his time of ministry on earth. It will soon be time for the Last Supper, and I am looking forward to how they depict this.
Moses lays out the expectations for the meal. The most important thing to remember is this is done to honor God and to remember the exodus from Egypt. People take these words of Moses seriously, “Let no yeast be found in any house throughout your land for those seven days.” The idea of ridding the house of leaven actually does happen as I understand it. It is called “chametz” which means leavened grain. Some families make a game of it to make sure no chametz has been left behind. Selling crackers, cookies, cereal, pasta, most alcoholic beverages, etc. to non-Jews is common so it doesn’t become waste.
What does this say to those of us who are not Jewish? To me, it speaks volumes to the people’s obedience. For something that God commanded through Moses all those years ago to still be happening seems incredible to me. The human condition of sin has not washed this tradition away. The other piece is that such remembrance honors God.
What are we doing, or can we be doing, in our own lives to honor God? Take some time today to commit to doing something on a regular basis that will honor God.
Let’s pray … Lord, may your name be honored! Thank you for the exodus you helped me to accomplish, and for how you have been working in my life ever since. Fill me anew with your Spirit and guide me with wisdom. Help me to rid my life of the distractions that keep me from being totally devoted to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
