Sometimes, current events seem to eerily mimic the past. This seems to be one of those moments.
Think about it. Like the Jewish people of old, we now are sequestered in our homes so we may be protected from an invisible enemy (Coronavirus). We, like ancient Jews living in Goshen, await God’s deliverance to freedom of movement, assembly and productive activity.
And most importantly, we share with them the rare opportunity to focus on God’s higher purposes. Like our ancient ancestors who were confined to their houses awaiting the great Move of God, we dial down. We get quiet. Surprisingly, we don’t miss very much the distractions of ball games, movies, and eating out. Instead, we get in touch with important life-truths so often drowned out by the over-stimulation of modern life.
So how does Messiah Yeshua fit into the “then-as-now” dynamic?
Back in Egypt, the blood of the lamb smeared on the door frames of tiny Jewish homes was the ultimate source of protection from the unseen threat. Today, we are eagerly awaiting a treatment that may prove to be our “savior.” But whatever medicine or strategy the government commends as the best tool of deliverance, we understand that the blood of the Lamb—the self-sacrifice of the Messiah of Israel as typified in that first Pesach Seder—is the necessary condition for humanity’s ultimate well-being. When, one day, all pandemics, cancers, and heartbreak end, the world will know that it was His work which will have ended every plague of the human condition. Even now, the love and commitment of God to his people serve as a counterweight to mass panic and fear mongering.
For the eight days of Pesach and until the “all clear” sounds, look for the blessings hidden in the unpleasantness of this rare moment of history. Very likely, you’ll be just fine… and even wiser for the experience.
For more Pesach content, try our Afikomen Hunt Ideas, Dayenu—The Passover Lamb, our Kosher-For-Passover Recipes compilation, or What Would the Uncles Think?
This post was written by MJTI President Rabbi Rich Nichol.
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