THE PASSOVER
EXODUS 11:10-12:14; PSALM 116; MATTHEW 12:1-8
The first reading presents us with the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread. It was a celebration that marked the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It was also the “passing over” of the forces of destruction, or the sparing of the firstborn of the Israelites, when the Lord smote the land of Egypt on the eve of the Exodus. The Israelites had to leave Egypt in such a hurry that they could not spare time for their breads to rise, giving origin to the name “unleavened bread” (Deuteronomy 16:3). The unleavened bread underscores the Passover themes which are present in the biblical accounts of the Last Supper.
This event commemorates our freedom from slavery and the dominion of darkness.
The emphasis on eating the unleavened bread is a physical reminder that we are to become spiritually unleavened by removing sin from our lives. Do not go back to “Egypt” – do not go back to idolatry and sin. By baptism, we have moved from darkness to light; and so, we are no longer guided by shady laws but genuine love.
Lastly, in the Gospel, Jesus chastised the Pharisees for their excessive legalistic observance of the Sabbath. The Lord desires kindness, not legalism, because true faith can only be seen in mercy. Law is good, but in Jesus’ view, all laws must be used to further the law of love.
LET US PRAY
Lord Jesus you have called us from slavery to friendship, from law to love and from darkness to light. Now Lord may your light of hope scatter the darkness in families today. Show us glimpses of your presence with us and comfort our hearts. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
