What is Passover? In the Bible we read about this event and the powerful results of obedience to God. (See Exodus 12:1-13, Deuteronomy 16:1-8).
Then there are the Gospel accounts of Jesus and His disciples in an upper room, partaking of the Passover meal. (Matthew 26:1-4, 14-16; Mark 14:1-2, 10-11; Luke 22:7-13; John 11:45-53) After that was the crucifixion which churches call “Good Friday.” Then we come to the record of Jesus’ resurrection.
Jesus is called our “Passover Lamb.” ( I Corinthians 5:7).
Yes, it’s a time to decorate, send out greeting cards or fashion e-mails in a festive way, choose a special menu, and gather with family and friends. But more than this, it’s a time for solitary, serious contemplation. What is it I am going to celebrate? What can I learn? What difference does it make?
Personal preparation makes way for interesting conversation. What does “celebrate” mean to us? What do any of us recall from last year’s holiday? And, what difference does the story of Passover and Resurrection Day make for our family?
This is not a holiday reserved for children. It doesn’t actually call for some new outfit to wear to church. Perhaps we would honor the LORD more if we forgo the word, “Easter” and instead call it “Resurrection Day.”
Passover was a life-or-death deal, and so is Jesus’ crucifixion and being raised from the dead and ascending to God.
What about other people who do make a big deal out of their Easter celebration? Can you compliment them on the cute bunnies and baskets, and mention that you finally found a lamb for the dinner table?
Without stressing out, perhaps a pretty card or poem you write and send via e-mail could demonstrate how happy you are to know that Jesus arose. What a difference it can make in a person’s outlook on life.
Choose for yourself to be blessed with the truth of life everlasting through Jesus. The soft, little stuffed lamb on the table can remind you to share the good news. + + +
