Devotion:
Read Exodus 12:14-17.
Exodus 11 tells about the final plague upon the Egyptians -- the death of the firstborn in all the land. Chapter 12 gives instructions to the Israelites to ensure they are protected from this horrible plague. They are to slaughter lambs and place some of the blood on their door frames. The death angel will see that they are Israelites and will “pass over” their homes and spare them. Special instructions are given for preparing and eating the evening meal of roasted lamb, and this meal begins a week in which no yeast will be used, meaning the Children of Israel were to eat unleavened bread. This event was transformative for Israel; and they would celebrate it, as instructed, from that time on. More than any other event to that time, this demonstrates God’s love and care for them as grace.
From this beginning and background of the Passover meal and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, Jesus chose to change forever the symbolism of the meal. He would replace the lamb as the perfect sacrifice, and no other sacrifice would ever need to be made. And the elements of bread and wine from his last Passover meal with his apostles would forever carry with them the spiritual presence of his body and blood as we celebrate Holy Communion.
Personal Worship Option:
Simply give thanks today that God loves you and was willing to sacrifice God’s Son in order to demonstrate that great love. Accept God’s love as grace, which is unearned and unmerited by anyone. We will celebrate Holy Communion in all our worship services this Sunday. Come and celebrate this means of grace for all!
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