Deuteronomy 16:1-8 

God’s Instruction for Passover

Like any user manual for operating equipment, Deuteronomy 16:1-8 is God’s instruction for the Jews on how to observe the Passover to commemorate their redemption from slavery and departure from Egypt. 

God instructed the Israelites to celebrate the Passover in the month of Aviv (Abib) —spring. “Sacrifice as the Passover to the Lord, an animal from your flock or herd” and “for seven days eat unleavened bread.” The exact location for the Passover sacrifice will be determined by God and must occur at sunset. None of the sacrificial meat should remain the next morning. On the seventh day, there shall be a solemn assembly to the Lord and no work should be done.

In relation to the Passover, Paul also reminds us to practice communion in remembrance of Jesus’ death and resurrection. (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) Christ was the sacrificial lamb whose blood was shed for us and the unleavened bread is the body of Christ broken to redeem us from our sins, bringing salvation and eternal life to those who believe in him.

Whenever we are struck down with trials and temptations, let us remember how God brought us from slavery (our past adversities, calamities, illnesses and desolation) into the light (God’s love, peace, forgiveness of our sins and his grace for us).

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ:

• How can we apply God’s instructions to our daily lives?
• Like the Israelites, which commandment from God do you urgently need to remember?
• What motivates your obedience to God?

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for redeeming us; thank you for your mercies that are renewed every morning. Thank you for the assurance of eternal life that is secured through you. Help us to meditate on your promises and be mindful of your spirit in everything we do or say. In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen.