When I see the blood, I will pass over you. – Exodus 12:13
Judgment comes in different ways – consequences from parents for disobeying children, or declared guilt or innocence of a crime from a court. In some cases, the effects of judgment are long-lasting and visible. The view is magnificent at the Grand Canyon in Arizona… but many geologists and theologians say it is all a result of the worldwide flood that wiped out life, except for Noah and his family. Layer upon layer of sedimentary rock settled on top of creation rock – a result of God’s judgment upon a sinful world.
God’s love for His people Israel was evidenced in His provision for their redemption from the final plague brought in judgment upon Egypt. Pharaoh’s refusal to allow the Hebrews to follow Moses out of the land to worship the Lord resulted in a succession of tragedies and devastation that culminated on this night where the angel of death would pass through Egypt. Only if the people had killed an unblemished lamb, put its blood on the doorposts and lintel, and remained inside their home would the angel pass over them – their firstborn would be saved from the judgment and they would be free (Exodus 12:7-13).
In a few days, Christians around the world will celebrate the birth of Christ Jesus, the Son of God. He humbled Himself by being born of a woman; He came because of His love for His people. He came as the perfect Lamb whose sole purpose was to die to “save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
Let this season be a joyful one, but also one in which you remember to give thanks and praise for God’s love and faithfulness to those who believe in Jesus. Intercede for this nation. May it be spared from God’s judgment. May its people believe and call upon Him in repentance.
Today’s Verse: Exodus 12:13
13 The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 2 Chronicles 7:14; 1 Peter 1:13-21
14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
