Last night my family took communion around our dinner table. Normally we do this at church, surrounded by other believers. But as we all know, things are not normal. Given the state of the current world, it is no longer possible to share this sacrament as we always have. My country, just like yours, has restricted the gathering of many people together. So now our church family has been dispersed, indefinitely. 

Last week, whilst the situation in the world grew dimmer, I came across the Passover narrative in Exodus. As I read the story, I could sense a deep connection between the Israelite’s challenge and our modern-day dilemma. 

Centuries ago the Israelites were living in tumultuous times in Ancient Egypt.  Their world was chaotic and uncertain. They faced a series of ‘plagues’ that had decimated their society (Ex 7-12). The final one carrying death (Ex 12:12-13). They were told to prepare, to go inside their home, and not come outside their door (Ex 12:22). Sound familiar?

In the midst of this wave of devastation, Yahweh provided Israel a rescue plan. He promised them protection through the blood of an unblemished lamb (Ex 12:13). Even in this time of separation, community flourished. They could share the lamb with their neighbours to ensure they were all protected (Ex 12:4). By placing the animal’s blood on their doorposts, they would be saved. God had every intention of honouring His covenant to Abraham’s descendants (Ex 6:4). Their hope was in His word. Their deliverance in His heart. 

The importance of the Passover to the Israelites still echoes through time. Passed down from generation to generation they recall Yahweh’s great authority over life and death. It was this message of deliverance and unending love to save (Ex 12:24) that strengthened my spirit as I read.

It was the reminder I needed last week. It turned me away from the news channels and social media blasts. To the truth of Jesus’s words to his followers. To me.

Take the cup of the new covenant and share it amongst yourselves (Luke 22:17-19).

A reminder of our covenant with Him. The one He made through Jesus’s blood that covers us – every day. Enacted by the perfect lamb who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29) so that Psalm 103:3 rings true:

He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases.  

And so, we stopped as a family, and we remembered what is truly important. And while this time of uncertainty rolls over us, we will partake in communion every week. We do this in remembrance of his sacrifice that was given to deliverer us because that is what God does for his people. We trust in His word and His heart for us. 

Will you join us? Right where you are, surrounded by those you love most, in remembrance of our God who is mighty to save us. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Charissa Steffens is a teacher with a background in business and publishing. Passionate about strengthening the Body of Christ she holds a Master of Arts (Biblical Studies) and ministers through the spoken and written word. She writes for the love of it at her blog shematters.com.au.  She serves in her home church Nexus in Brisbane, Australia. And is oh so happily married to David with whom she has two beautiful children, Elisha and Lucas.