Day 62 : Exodus 12:11
Read Exodus 12:11
Helpful Background Information:
First, reread Jesus’ instructions to his disciples in Mark 6:8-9
Then, Read Exodus 12:11
In Exodus 12, we find the Lord giving instructions for the Passover to the Israelites who are about to be reduced from their slavery in Egypt. After Joseph’s death, a new Pharaoh came to power who didn't know Joseph and felt threatened by the growing population of Israelites. He enslaved them and subjected them to harsh labor, hoping to suppress their numbers. However, God was aware of their groaning and suffering.
In Exodus 3, God appears to Moses in the burning bush, revealing his name as the great “I AM” and affirms to Moses that he will rescue his people from their suffering, bringing them back to the Promised Land that he promised to Abraham. Moses and his brother Aaron then confront Pharaoh with the demand to release the Israelites. Pharoah refuses. In response, God sends nine plagues upon Egypt as a form of judgment upon Pharoah and the nation. But each time, Pharoah refuses to let the Israelites go and his heart is hardened. This results in the tenth and final plague, the killing of the firstborn son, which serves as God’s ultimate judgment: displaying his power over life and death.
Thus, we now return to Exodus 12, where God provides the Passover: the Israelites would take a lamb for each household and apply its blood to their doorposts; thus, the plague would “pass over” them. In his mercy, God provides how the Israelites would be spared from his wrath. The Passover was the prerequisite for the Exodus event, where the Israelites would leave Egypt, pass through the sea, and be on their way to the Promised Land
Returning to Exodus 12:11 - God commands the Israelites to eat the Passover meal in a hurry. They were to be dressed for travel, have their sandals on, and have their staff ready. At any moment they would need to be ready for a speedy departure from Egypt. In Mark 6:8-9, the four items required of the disciples are, in fact, identical to the belongings that God instructs the Israelites to take on their flight from Egypt: travel clothes, sandals, and staff in hand. These three items of clothing recall the haste and hurry of the Exodus. Just like the Israelites, the twelve disciples were to travel lightly to serve God and advance his redemptive mission - relying upon him to meet their needs. Just as God redeemed the Israelites from the slavery of Egypt, now the disciples will preach the gospel - a message of greater redemption from sin.
Reflection Questions:
In what ways does God prompt us to be prepared and ready for His call at a moment’s notice in our lives?
What are some “things” in your life that may weigh you down or distract you from serving God? How can you simplify your life to better serve His purpose?
In both Exodus 12:11 and Mark 6:11, the call to travel lightly highlights God’s faithfulness and provision. It was God who provided the Israelites and the disciples with everything they needed to serve him. How do these two passages encourage you in your capacity to serve him?