I've been reading about the symbolic elements and rites of Passover, still practiced by devout Jews everywhere. They are forever a reminder of deliverance! A reminder of a God who stepped in miraculously to free them from years of hard-driven slavery! A reminder that, when following God's way - the blood of a perfect lamb guarded them from the angel of death that swept through the homes of their oppressors, taking every firstborn son.
It was the final straw that broke Pharoah's resolve to keep his primary workforce, and let them go and worship this God who was tormenting him on their behalf! It is forever a memorial to the freedom bought for them by a God who had chosen to lead them out of captivity! And it is diligently observed, year after year, least they ever forget who's they were and what was done for them!
Jesus, himself, celebrated the Passover every year. And this particular year, he added some poignant symbolism to the elements of the meal - meaning that would soon be exceedingly precious to his new followers. As he broke the unleavened bread for them, Jesus said "This is my body that is broken for you." And as he blessed the wine for them, "This is my blood, poured out for you." And he asked them to continue these rites in remembrance of him. So they would never forget!
I'm not sure the disciples understood what he meant at the time. Jesus had said many confusing things during his time with them, like those about eating his flesh and drinking his blood! Deeply disturbing and incomprehensible!
Of course, he didn't mean literally! He was speaking of being the Passover lamb! And how this perfect lamb, the blood poured out for them, and the bread broken on their behalf, was the only way he could bring them deliverance from the death penalty standing over them!
He was trying to make them realise his intimate connection with the Passover symbolism they had celebrated for so many years! Only much more poignant now. He was giving himself up to death - the firstborn son! To set his people free!
It is Good Friday. The day he became the Passover lamb. May we too, reflect on the symbolism of the Passover - and the deeper meaning today! Lest we forget.
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