Published by: ICEJ
Passover: A Time of Remembrance and Hope for Jews and Christians
“So this day shall be to you a memorial”
(Exodus 12:14)
This year marks a rare occasion when Passover will coincide with Easter, and Christians across denominations will celebrate on the same date. For Christians, Passover foreshadows Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, our Passover lamb. Just as the blood of the lamb in Exodus 12 protected the Israelites, so Jesus’ blood offers us salvation and deliverance from sin.
This connection explains why early Christians, many of whom were Jewish, celebrated Jesus’ death and resurrection during Passover. However, at the Council of Nicaea in AD 325, Constantine sought to separate these festivals to emphasise Christianity’s break from Judaism. Sadly, this led Christians throughout history to overlook the significance of Passover. But with Passover and Easter coinciding this year, Christians are encouraged to reverse this trend: to reflect on Passover’s importance, oppose antisemitism and join the Jewish people in remembering the Exodus.
Passover is a reminder of God’s faithfulness to Israel, rescuing them from Egyptian slavery and bringing them into the promised land, in fulfilment of His covenant with Abraham. It highlights Israel’s vital role in God’s salvation plan and shows that God will always deliver His chosen people – an important reminder as we witness unprecedented hostility towards Israel today.
But Passover is not just about looking back; it also encourages us to look forward in hope. When Christians partake in communion, instituted during Passover, we remember Christ’s death and proclaim it until His return (Lk. 22:16; 1 Cor. 11:26). The prophets also linked a “second Exodus” to Israel’s future restoration (Jer.16:14-15), illustrating God’s ongoing plan of redemption for both Israel and the world.
As we reflect on Passover, we look forward with hope to the ultimate freedom that will come when God’s promises to Abraham are fully realised, restoring both Israel and ultimately the entire world to a state of shalom.
This year, may we recognise Passover as a symbol of God’s faithfulness to Israel. At a time when antisemitic forces, like Pharaoh before them, seek to destroy Israel, we must stand with the Jewish people and pray for their protection. Passover also reminds us to pray for the freedom of the hostages in Gaza, asking God to deliver them as He did for the Israelites from Egyptian captivity over 3,000 years ago.
We wish our Jewish readers a Chag Pesach Sameach and our Christian readers a Happy Easter.
Resources To Help you Host & Celebrate This Passover
Feast Of Tabernacles
Partner With ICEJ Australia’s New Project
Just as Nehemiah led the people of Israel in rebuilding the broken walls of Jerusalem, it is time for Christians to help rebuild the battered Israeli communities along the Gaza borders. Isaiah 60:10 prophesied, “The sons of foreigners shall build your walls”. ICEJ Australia wants to be among the builders and help rebuild an educational centre in Kibbutz Be’eri, which was destroyed in the October 7 invasion. It previously served as an essential hub for children aged 8-10 and had functioned as an after-school centre, where children received meals, completed homework, and participated in educational activities. It was also a key facility during school vacations, providing a safe space for children while their parents worked. Located close to three kindergartens and a playground, the centre stood at the heart of the kibbutz’s educational framework.
Together, our contribution to this life changing project will be a significant part of ICEJ’s rebuilding projects in Israel’s southern communities.
Arise Summer Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Israel on the ICEJ Arise Summer Tour for ages 18-30!
We believe that every Christian should walk the land of the Bible and connect with the people of Israel. This is even more important for young Christians today as they learn to navigate an ever-changing world of conflicting information.
STAY INFORMED
Be sure to watch this informative and insightful Current Affairs discussion hosted by ICEJ Senior Vice President and Spokesman David Parsons with special guest
Lt Col (Ret) Jonathan Conricus, Former IDF Spokesman.
JOIN US IN PRAYER
With the constant threat of attack, the rising witness of Antisemitism globally and the devastation left behind in the lives of so many across Israel – now is the time to gather in prayer and uplift the nation of Israel.
If you would like to be part of ICEJ’s global 24/7 prayer,
click below to join the Australian prayer watch each
Tuesday 3pm-4pm or Wednesday 6am-7am (AEDT).
Blessings,
Sarah Way
ICEJ Australia National Director
