Exodus 12:1-28 Psalm 78:9-16 Proverbs

In Exodus 12:1-28, God gives Moses and Aaron detailed instructions for the Passover. The Israelites are to sacrifice a lamb, mark their doorposts with its blood, and eat the lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. This ritual will protect them from the final plague, where God will strike down the firstborns of Egypt but pass over the houses marked with blood. The Passover is established as a lasting ordinance for the Israelites, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt.
Psalm 78:9-16 reflects on the faithlessness of the Ephraimites, who turned back in the day of battle despite being armed. The psalmist recounts God's marvelous deeds, such as dividing the sea, guiding the Israelites with a cloud by day and fire by night, and providing water from rocks in the wilderness. These acts of divine intervention were meant to teach future generations about God's power and faithfulness.
Proverbs 28:28 and 29:2 highlight the impact of leadership on a society. When the wicked rise to power, people hide, but when they perish, the righteous thrive. Conversely, when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. These verses underscore the profound influence of leadership on the moral and social health of a community.
John 17:1-26 captures Jesus' profound prayer before His crucifixion. He prays for Himself, asking to be glorified so He can glorify the Father. Jesus then prays for His disciples, asking for their protection, unity, and sanctification through the truth. Finally, Jesus prays for all future believers, desiring that they may be one as He and the Father are one, and that they may be with Him to see His glory. This prayer emphasizes Jesus' deep love and concern for His followers and His desire for their unity and eternal fellowship with Him.