Today’s Reading, Exodus 10-12
Focal Scripture: Exodus 12:13 “The blood on the houses where you are staying will be a distinguishing mark for you; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will be among you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.”
Our religion is a bloody one. From its founding, the only way for sins to be forgiven and cleansed is by death. In the Old Testament animals were chosen, slaughtered, placed on the altar, had their blood sprinkled, and the remains burnt. These actions pleased a Holy God because the consequences of sin have been and always will be death. The blood of animals covered the sins of the people, but these sacrifices had to be continually made. In the New Testament, Jesus became the sacrifice and his blood not only forgave sins but cleansed people from all unrighteousness. His blood appeased the wrath of a Holy and righteous God.
In today’s reading, we are at the last plague the Egyptians would face before the release of the Israelites. The plague was the death of the firstborn in each household. God said that when the Angel of Death was released he was only looking for one sign to spare a home, that was blood. God told Moses that each Jewish household was to commit a sacrifice and put blood on the doorposts. When the Angel came by he would Passover any house where blood was painted. Why does this matter? Because every household that night experienced death. Sin has very real consequences, that consequence is death.
So what does this have to do with us today as believers? The Bible tells us that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin. We know that Jesus took on human flesh, lived a sinless life, became our sacrificial lamb, died, was buried and rose again. Because he died on our behalf his blood is what makes us clean. You see the blood of Jesus doesn’t stain, it washes white as snow. It purifies us and allows us to stand in the presence of God.
I am not sure where you are in your spiritual walk. What I can tell you is this, Jesus loves you and when you are covered by his blood, you have protection from the wrath of God. Don’t be scared by this truth. Embrace it and know that Jesus is your lamb who takes away the sin of the world. There is power in the blood. Wonder working power.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Exodus 13-15
