Bible Pathways 02/16/2003
Read Numbers 8 -- 9
In Today 's Reading:
Cleansing of the Levites; observance of the second Passover; the Lord's guiding presence in the cloud and the fire over the tabernacle
The Israelites gained their freedom from Egypt after they observed the first Passover. The blood was placed on the doorpost but, equally important, they were commanded to eat the lamb.
Freedom from Egypt did not mean that they were free to do as they pleased In Egypt they were under the heartless slavery of Pharaoh; now they were free to follow the leadership of the one true God.
In the first month of the second year after their departure from . . . Egypt, the LORD told Moses . . . The Israelites are to observe the Passover at its appointed time. . . . on the fourteenth day of this month at twilight at its appointed time. You are to observe it according to all its statutes and ordinances (Numbers 9:1-3).
The Passover was a reminder of how the Israelites gained their freedom. Not only were they to partake of the Passover Festival, but they were also required to bring the LORD's offering: But the person who fails to observe the Passover even though he is ceremonially clean (and) is not on a journey must be cut off from his people because he did not present the LORD's offering at its designated time (9:13).
Our observance of the Lord's Supper is a reminder that, because of Jesus' atoning death, we were made free from sin, became children of God, and are prepared for our wilderness journey through life. For Christ our Passover has been sacrificed (I Corinthians 5:7). It was Jesus who said: As often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes (11:26).
Just as the Lord determined the journey of the Israelite tribes, He has a plan for you as you journey through life. Our supreme aim should be to accomplish His purpose for creating us. When God is our Guide, what is there to fear? He has provided a reliable threefold Guide for direction - His perfect word, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the power of prayer: For it is God who is working among you both the willing and the working for His good purpose (Philippians 2:13).
Christ Revealed:
The Passover (Numbers 9:2) serves as a beautiful illustration of the redemption Christ accomplished at Calvary as the Lamb of God (John 1:29; I Corinthians 5:7).
Prayer Needs:
Country: Philippines (79 million) in southeast Asia · Major languages: Filipino and English · Religious persecution in some areas · 64% Roman Catholic; 11% Protestant; 8% indigenous Catholic; 8% Muslim, 7% cults · Prayer Suggestion: Lift your hands in surrender and praise as you pray (Psalms 63:4).
Optional Reading: Luke 3
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:10
