Israel had been in bondage for 400 years.  Multiple generations were far removed from the promises given to their forefather, Abraham. Now a tongue tied sheepherder named Moses is stirring up all kinds of trouble.  He’s telling them they are God’s people and are not meant to be Pharaoh’s slaves.  Nine plagues had ravaged Egypt.  Now the tenth and final plague will release them from slavery and propel them toward their God promised destiny.  The question is, are they ready to move?  It’s our question too.

Moses gave them four instructions on that fateful Passover night in Exodus 12:11 CSB”…You must be dressed for travel, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand.  You are to eat it in a hurry.  It is the Lord’s Passover.”  These ancient insights are applicable to our journey forward in FINISHing the Great Commission.

We must travel light.  Some things are vital and others just weigh us down.  Traditions must not outweigh truth.  Style must not trump substance. Certainty of the present, though painful, should not hold us back from the promising future God has for us.

Our feet must be prepared for a difficult trip.God didn’t invite the Israelites for a short walk in the sand.  The journey through the wilderness would be perilous. We too must be determined to travel the distance to realize the promises God has for us.

They were to carry a staff in their hand to steady and protect them.  The terrain they would traverse would be filled with places where they might slip and fall. Predators would need to be driven out of their way. Likewise, we must be armed with the certainty of God’s word to make our steps sure and keep our flock safe.

Finally, we must embrace the urgency of the moment. The Lord told the Israelites to eat the Passover in a hurry. The reason was He was up to something big. I believe He also has big plans for the Church of God in Kentucky. It is time to move forward into the promises God has for us.  Thank you for being partners with me in this journey into a bright future.