Read:
Exodus 12:14 (NKJV) “So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance.”
Think:
Church historian Clair Davis once described the Christian life as a "combination of amnesia and déjà vu." Considering this, it is clear why God commanded the children of Israel to observe the Passover (the Feast of Unleavened Bread) for generations to come. He wanted them to remember His great salvation forever and not forget. To help them remember, God instituted this yearly reminder. The Passover was meant to remind God's people of the last plague of Egypt, which took the first-born of every family that did not have blood applied to the doorpost of their home. This memorial was not meant to remind them of death, but of life and mercy. God provided life when death was imminent and was merciful to those who believed and obeyed.
This portion of Exodus marks the first memorial, the first remembrance of what would become the Lord's Supper in the New Testament. As we remember and rejoice in where God has brought us and what is to come, we are reminded of His deliverance and provision. Therefore,
memorials are incredibly important as they serve as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness throughout history and in our own lives.
Apply:
What are you grateful to God for today? What do you need to remember and be thankful for?
Pray:
Heavenly Father, you have been so good. I can see your hand throughout my life and I cannot say “thank you” enough. In Jesus’ name, Amen.