Advent Through Exodus: The Miracle of Christmasنموونە

Second Sunday of Advent: “Moses Confronts Pharaoh” — Fellowship with Family

Last week, we learned how God called Moses to live in the Light, and how the darkness of sin can sometimes obscure our vision of hope in Jesus. This week, we'll explore the vital role of family and relationships in God's plan for our lives.

In Exodus 5, Moses and Aaron approach Pharaoh, requesting a three-day journey into the desert to sacrifice to the Lord as commanded by God. Pharaoh refuses, imposing even harsher labor on the Israelites.

As a result, God sends ten plagues upon Egypt. The ninth is darkness, followed by the tenth: death. The Egyptians were living in utter darkness, denying God's existence. However, for God's faithful Hebrew people, the Lord provided instructions for sacrificing a Passover lamb, offering a safe pathway out of darkness and into a deeper relationship with Him.

In Exodus 12, the Lord instructs the Israelites to choose a lamb according to their family size and to have their neighbors help those who are unable to obtain one. This emphasizes the importance of family, community, and obedience in God's plan for deliverance. By participating in the Passover ritual as individual family units within the broader community of believers, the Israelites were demonstrating their worship and trust in God.

The second week of Advent teaches us that great things can arise from small beginnings, to never lose hope, and to always trust in God's power.

As we remember the Passover of Exodus, we hold onto the hope of the coming birth of the Lamb of God, who will take away our sins. Our eternal security lies in our obedience and trust.
This week we light the second candle, anticipating our Savior's arrival.