Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement

Passover, beginning tomorrow at sundown, is more than a historical remembrance—it’s a living testimony of God’s unmatched power, unfailing love, and sovereign protection. Rooted in the dramatic exodus of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, Passover captures one of the most breathtaking moments in the biblical narrative. On that sacred night, while judgment swept through Egypt, divine mercy hovered over every home marked by the blood of a spotless lamb. It wasn’t just about escaping bondage; it was about stepping into freedom under the covering of a covenant. This extraordinary act of deliverance highlights the perfect balance of God’s justice and mercy, and it continues to echo through time with life-changing truths for every believer today.

The origin of Passover is found in Exodus 12, where God gave Moses and Aaron specific instructions to follow. The Israelites were commanded to select a lamb without blemish, slaughter it at twilight, and apply its blood to the doorposts of their homes. This act of obedience became the means by which God would deliver them from the judgment that was about to be unleashed on Egypt.

God’s instructions were clear: “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 shall befall you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:13). This divine sign of protection was not based on the Israelites’ merit, effort, or status, but solely on the blood of the lamb and their obedience to God’s command. In this moment, God showed His people that deliverance came not through their works but through faith and trust in His provision.

The Symbolism of the Lamb’s Blood

The lamb’s blood applied to the doorposts serves as a powerful symbol of substitutionary atonement, a theme that echoes throughout the Bible. In this moment, the blood of the lamb stood in place of the lives of the Israelites. It was a sign that judgment had already been fulfilled, and the people of God were protected by a sacrifice on their behalf.

This sacrificial lamb points directly to Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who would one day take away the sins of the world (John 1:29). Just as the Israelites were spared because of the blood on their doorposts, we too are spared from eternal separation from God because of the blood of Jesus shed for us on the cross.

The apostle Paul explicitly connects Passover to Christ’s sacrifice: “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Jesus’ death and resurrection fulfilled the ultimate purpose of the Passover lamb, offering redemption and reconciliation with God for all who believe. The lamb’s blood on the doorposts foreshadows the blood of Christ that covers us today, offering us deliverance from sin and eternal death.

Abiding in Christ: Our Spiritual Refuge

While the Israelites were instructed to remain physically in their homes, God calls believers today to remain spiritually in Christ. The covering of the lamb’s blood was a sign of protection, and for us, that protection is found in the blood of Jesus. But what does it mean to “remain” or “abide” in Christ, and how can we practically apply this to our lives?

1. Abiding in Christ – Jesus made it clear in John 15:4-7 that abiding in Him is essential for spiritual life. “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” Abiding means maintaining an ongoing, living relationship with Jesus, drawing our strength, peace, and protection from Him alone.
2. Staying in the Word – The Bible is a vital part of the believer’s life and covering. Psalm 119:105 reminds us that God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we stay grounded in God’s truth and align ourselves with His will.
3. Fellowship with the Church – Just as the Israelites gathered in their homes, believers today are called to gather together as the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27). Fellowship with fellow believers provides encouragement, strength, and mutual support as we walk in faith together.
4. Prayer and Worship – Prayer is a powerful means of communing with God and seeking His protection. In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul encourages believers to pray in all circumstances, promising that God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds. Worship, too, aligns our hearts with God and helps us remain in His presence.
5. Walking in Obedience – Obedience to God is key to remaining under His covering. James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” Just as the Israelites were saved through their obedience to apply the lamb’s blood, we are called to walk in obedience to God’s commands as we remain in Christ.

A Picture of Grace and Faithfulness

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Passover story is that the Israelites’ safety was not dependent on their personal righteousness but solely on the power of the lamb’s blood. This truth is mirrored in the gospel: our salvation is not based on our works but on God’s grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is not our efforts that secure our protection but the grace and mercy of God, demonstrated through the blood of Christ.

The covering of the blood is also a reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness. Even in the midst of judgment, God provided a way of escape for His people. In the same way, God continues to be faithful to His people today. Romans 8:1 assures us, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” We are safe in Christ, and nothing can separate us from His love and protection.

In a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and spiritual danger, the call to remain under the covering of Christ has never been more urgent. Just as the Israelites found refuge under the blood-covered doorframes, we find our refuge in Jesus Christ. This is not a one-time act of faith but a continual commitment to abide in Him and trust His protection.

Whether through prayer, worship, fellowship, or obedience, our safety and peace come from staying close to the Savior. Jesus Himself offers a place of refuge for all who are burdened and weary: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Let us take refuge in Him today, knowing that in Christ, we are safe, protected, and covered by the blood of the Lamb.

I pray that this message speaks to your heart and brings you peace. May you experience the profound protection and grace of God as you remain in Christ, today and always.