The first reading tells the story of the origins of Passover, a quickly prepared meal for a people about to be sent on a journey through the desert into liberation. It’s a powerful story that finds its fulfillment in the Last Supper of Christ, becoming the Eucharist.
But this story bothers me, challenges my understanding of God because the obstinacy of the pharaoh causes all the first born to be slaughtered. Innocent human life, even including the first born of all animals, is killed because the Pharaoh is stubborn. The angel of death “passed over” the blood marked houses of the Hebrews.
Why did God have to go to such violent ends to free the Chosen People? This has never sat well with me. The only solace I take comfort in is the power of the Cross. On that Cross, the Christ FOREVER ended the need to sacrifice any life, for His life absorbed and embraced all the injustices and vengeance we place on those individuals and people we scapegoat.
Jesus revealed in His person the God who wants mercy not sacrifice. His sacrifice is enough.
Peace,
Fr. Frank
Happy Feast of our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Blessings to all our Carmelite brothers and sisters throughout the world.
Most especially: St. Teresa of Avila, the greatest of all carmelites. I’m very biased in this regards.