Passover?

It’s almost time for the observance of Passover (April 3).

Q: But what is Passover and why is it important?
A: Passover is an observance filled with powerful memories of how God led His people out of Egyptian slavery many, many years ago. Here is a recollection of the historical event that led to this very important day.

 

PASSOVER, by Craig Hughes

So, what’s the deal, this Jewish meal of bitter herbs and clover?
Ah! So you say it is our way to celebrate Passover.

It seems that many years ago the Lord sent His man, Moses,
To free His clan from slavery and all that it imposes.

But Pharaoh was a wicked man, reluctant to give way
To God’s commands and thus was led in selfishness to say:

“I will not let the people go, no matter who you are!
You must believe I am a fool! Your words are much bizarre!”

In fact, because of Moses’ plea, the Pharaoh made things harder
Commanding all the hand made bricks be made with strawless mortar.

But Moses did not give up hope. He knew the Lord was true.
And so, with Aaron by his side, he asked God what to do.

“Since Pharaoh is so obstinate and stuck within his tracks
I’ll send some plagues to pressure him until he moves and acts.

Make no mistake, I’ll have my way. I’ll set my people free.”
So God began to work His plan for all the world to see.

With Aaron as His mouthpiece as with Moses from the start,
The Lord brought forth a set of plagues to soften Pharaoh’s heart.

First, came the water turned to blood and then the flood of frogs,
And then the dust turned into gnats. No match for other gods.

The swarms of flies upon the land were ghastly to behold.
And still the Lord continued saying, “Let my people go!”

But Pharaoh, with his stubborn heart, on his own strength relied.
So God sent forth another plague where Egypt’s livestock died.

Then plagues of boils and hail and bugs and darkness all around
Were not enough to bring the will of Pharaoh crashing down.

One final plague was most severe than any gone before.
The people were instructed to paint lamb’s blood on their doors.

To show they were believers in the only one true God,
They followed His direction even though some thought it odd.

That night an angel made his way past all the homes in town,
And those without the strokes of blood saw firstborns stricken down.

This one last plague was quite a price the pontiff had to pay.
With his son dead he finally said, “I’m done. Just go away.”

The Israelites were finally free to leave Egyptian chains,
And one more time had seen the proof of which King really reigns.

They gathered their belongings, every woman, child and man
And headed out in one great mass to find the promised land.

And so each year, with thanksgiving, this story we recall,
Remembering the works of God who is the Lord of all.