The Passover. God made a way for His chosen people to escape the wrath poured out upon all firstborns who did not have the blood of a lamb splattered on their door posts. The covering of blood was God’s provision, but in order to receive the provision they had to believe that this was the only way. No other animal would suffice, nor would any delay. No, no, God’s provision was through a lamb slain and its blood spilled across each door post. This was God’s way, it was the only way to be spared.
As the Israelites obeyed God’s command in order to escape the wrath of God and as they departed the land of Egypt, they were also given an abundance of riches…
“Now the sons of Israel had done according to the word of Moses, for they had requested from the Egyptians articles of silver and articles of gold, and clothing; and the Lord had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they let them have their request. Thus they plundered the Egyptians.”
Exodus 12:35-36
God’s hand was upon His people…they cried for help, and His answer was swift and sufficient. Their journey ahead would require necessary provision, and as they trusted, God provided. His supply is always sufficient, His answer is always enough, and His ways are always right. And so, the Israelites began their journey–obedient to God, supplied for their journey, but another obstacle awaited them…a sea in front and an army bent on their destruction behind.
Nevertheless, God has requested that His people set apart all firstborns unto Him…
“Sanctify to Me every firstborn, the first offspring of every womb among the sons of Israel, both of man and beast; it belongs to Me…It came about, when Pharaoh was stubborn about letting us go, that the Lord killed every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man and the firstborn of beast. Therefore, I sacrifice to the Lord the males, the first offspring of every womb, but every firstborn of my sons I redeem.’”
Exodus 13:2, 15
The firstborn belongs to God…serving as another shadow of God’s rescue mission for humanity and the healing of broken hearts.
In the meantime, as Christmas is now 2 days away, consider God’s provision for His people for their journey. Consider that He made a way for them to escape with enough material supply for the days and generations ahead. Consider how God has supplied you with your journey. Consider how, through Christ, you have all you need for direction in the present and hope for the future. Consider the babe born in Bethlehem one glorious day.