Holidays

Spring sunshine and school holidays, and with the long Easter Weekend approaching, many are in holiday mood.

Of course the word derives from the more ancient phrase 'holy day', when Christian people in Europe remembered some particular festival or feast day.

In the time of Jesus, the week before the Festival of Passover was a special period of holy days. Most people were engaged in agriculture and were able, in early spring, to leave their work, and travel to Jerusalem, to recall the defining events of their national life. 

Having been slaves in Egypt, recalling the events of the Passover took them back to their origins. 'While the Israelites were still in the land of Egypt, the Lord gave the following instructions to Moses and Aaron: “From now on, this month will be the first month of the year for you. Announce to the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each family must choose a lamb or a young goat for a sacrifice, one animal for each household.' (Exodus 12.1-3)

The events of Passover would mark the sharp distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians. The blood of the Passover lambs, daubed on the door frames, would mean safety and survival for all within that household. 'On that night I will pass through the land of Egypt and strike down every first-born son and first-born male animal in the land of Egypt. I will execute judgement against all the gods of Egypt, for I am the Lord! But the blood on your door posts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you are staying. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. This plague of death will not touch you when I strike the land of Egypt. 

“This is a day to remember. Each year, from generation to generation, you must celebrate it as a special festival to the Lord. This is a law for all time.' (Exodus 12.12-14)

Jesus and his disciples were on their way to Jerusalem, in order to be part of this great national event. It was a time of recalling God's faithfulness to his people, and of the great deliverance that was enjoyed by all who trusted him.

As we shall the see, during this week the focus changed from looking back, to looking forward. 

I pray that we may learn to trust God for our own deliverance.

Best wishes,

Richard