February 3

In Exodus 10-12, we read about the final plagues in Egypt, culminating in the Passover and the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery. The tenth plague, the death of the firstborn, marks a pivotal moment in God’s plan. God instructs the Israelites to sacrifice a spotless lamb and place its blood on their doorframes. When the Lord sees the blood, He passes over their homes, sparing them from judgment. This event, which leads to Israel’s exodus from Egypt, foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God, whose blood delivers us from sin and death. The Passover teaches us the power of God’s redemption and the significance of the blood of the Lamb in securing freedom and life.

Ephesians 2 speaks of the spiritual reality of that redemption. Paul writes, “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1), emphasizing that we were enslaved to sin just as Israel was enslaved in Egypt. But Paul doesn’t leave us in that hopeless state. He declares the good news: “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:4-5). Just as the Israelites were helpless to free themselves, we cannot earn our salvation. It is by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ that we are saved.  

These passages together reveal the beauty of God’s grace and the power of deliverance. The Israelites’ story reminds us that God’s redemption requires trust and obedience—placing the blood of the lamb on the door was an act of faith. Similarly, Ephesians 2 calls us to place our faith in the finished work of Christ. His sacrifice ensures that we are no longer enslaved to sin but are made alive, raised up, and seated with Him in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). Through Jesus, we are not only delivered from judgment but also welcomed into God’s family and given a new identity as His workmanship, created to do good works in His name (Ephesians 2:10).  

The Passover lamb and the cross of Christ are powerful reminders that deliverance comes at a cost—but it is a cost God has willingly paid out of His love for us. As we reflect on these truths, let us remember that salvation is not something we earn but a gift of grace, calling us to live in freedom, gratitude, and purpose.  

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