Main Verse: Exodus  12:14-20

Good morning!

The first Passover would be the first day of a new life for Israel and the last night of slavery and it marked the end of a dark chapter and the light of a new one. Removing leaven from their homes was symbolic of removing sin from their lives. Leaven or, “yeast”, causes the bread to rise so, why wouldn’t you want it in the bread? Because it takes time a luxury the nation did not have. The nation celebrated Passover for seven days and on the eighth day they left Egypt taking with them the spoils of war.

Israel’s story is a lot like our story because it begins with us leaving slavery and the promise of a new day.  The tragic part of a “New Year” is that something or someone must die ( (Hebrews 9:16-28). The nation had to leave everything behind them including the wealth and prestige they had received which is why many wanted to return by hook or by crook. In the same way, when we die to our sinful life and celebrate baptism and our commitment to the Lord, many waver (a story for another time). My encouragement for you today is that you will open your heart to Jesus today and accept his gift of salvation from whatever hell you are facing so that you will be free indeed (John 8:31-32).

I.H.S.

MK

Father,

There is no greater love than that a man dies for a friend (John 15:13). You sent your only son as a sacrifice for our sins. Because of Jesus, we do have the possible escape from a sinful and broken way of life. In the New Testament, unlike the Old Testament, it is not a nation that had to make a choice, it is a personal choice; so we can either stay in sin or walk in the newness of salvation. Today I recommit my life to walking in the newness of life in Jesus Christ. I pray for those who are going through struggles that are pulling at their heart. I pray also for those who are dealing with extreme medical issues and require a fresh touch from You.  

In Jesus’ name

Amen