Prepare for Pesach
“Prepare for Pesach” is God’s call resonating with each of us today. Pesach, meaning “to pass over,” reminds us of how the Lord instructed the people of Israel to stay inside their homes, marking the doorposts and lintels with the blood of the sacrificial lamb, so His judgment would pass over them. Scripture says: “For His anger lasts only a moment… weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). This is precisely what occurred in Egypt—tears filled the land at night, but by morning Israel rejoiced in newfound freedom. Indeed, “He brought out Israel laden with silver and gold, and from among their tribes no one faltered” (Psalm 105:37).
Pesach is not merely a historical celebration but a significant season of spiritual renewal. The blood of Yeshua, our Messiah, transforms us, guiding us into our calling and purpose. God longs to meet us during this special season to profoundly change our lives.
The Scriptures recount King Josiah, who ascended the throne at eight years old. In the eighteenth year of his reign, he made a pivotal spiritual decision. He turned his focus to restoring the house of the Lord, recognizing that genuine preparation for encountering God begins with a renewed heart and restored worship. Josiah’s heart mirrored that of King David, whom the Lord dearly loved. God himself testified, “I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart” (Acts 13:22).
Josiah initiated a profound spiritual cleansing of Israel. He demolished every idol and pagan shrine, preparing the nation for a Pesach celebration that had not been seen “since the days of the judges who led Israel” (2 Kings 23:22). Authentic Pesach preparation demands humility and heart purification. We must examine our motives and intentions carefully, for the Lord promises: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).
Today, as in Josiah’s time, God invites us not only to physically cleanse our homes from leaven but, more importantly, to spiritually cleanse our hearts. Apostle Paul instructs us clearly: “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Therefore, let us keep the Festival, not with the old bread leavened with malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).
Pesach symbolizes liberation. God has delivered us from the bondage of sin and dependency, and thus we must not revert to our old ways. Yeshua declared explicitly: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me… He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners” (Luke 4:18). You are no longer a slave to sin but free in Christ. Embrace and live out this freedom without allowing past bondages to entangle you again.
Yeshua sent His disciples ahead to prepare for Pesach, instructing them: “As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house he enters” (Luke 22:10). This man symbolizes the Holy Spirit and God’s Word, guiding us into truth and fulfilling His promises. Our responsibility is to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, anchoring ourselves in God’s Word to fulfill His divine purpose.
Yeshua eagerly desires fellowship with us, especially during Pesach. When He asked, “Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” (Luke 22:11), He underscored His deep desire for closeness with us. Our Lord awaits this meaningful encounter, longing to share spiritual communion and blessings with each disciple.
Preparation for Pesach calls for intentional decisions and actions. Although God has prepared everything, we must step into this prepared place through faith and obedience. We are not called to passive waiting but to active participation in God’s plans and purposes.
Paul also urges us to take spiritual preparation seriously, reminding us that “a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough” (1 Corinthians 5:6). Vigilance is necessary to remove every impurity from our lives. Pesach is a profound reminder of our continual need for spiritual cleansing and dedication to the Lord.
Ultimately, remember that God desires to meet you this Pesach to bless you abundantly. His presence brings His goodness. Prepare your heart, eagerly awaiting the Lord as you would your most honored guest. For the essence of Pesach is an encounter with the living God, which will forever transform your life.
Pastor Oren Lev Ari