In the previous post, we focused on waiting for the plague and anticipating its effects. But what about after the plague is over? On the other side of the plague and the Exodus from Egypt, the Israelites would have to rebuild their lives in an unfamiliar place, that is, in the wilderness. We can recall their struggles to embrace their new reality. Sometimes many of them wanted to return to slavery in Egypt (Exod. 16:2-3). Many of us have lost jobs, or expect to lose them. Perhaps we have seen other shifts in our lives as well, like the loss of loved ones or the strengthening grip of depression or anxiety. We wonder what life will be like when this is over and may think fondly about our life before and want to go back there.
In the midst of uncertainty and speculation about the future, there are some solid, reliable points that can anchor us. Jesus came at Passover time to bring reconciliation to God and freedom from slavery to sin and the Devil. No one can take these away from those who believe in Jesus. Jesus, the great deliverer, is still with us. He, his Father, and his Spirit are with us, just like they were with Israel in the wilderness (1 Cor. 10:4). God is still saving and rescuing. God provided for Israel before, during, and after the Exodus. Similarly, Jesus provided for his first disciples before, during, and after his death on the cross. Surely, God will provide for us on the other side of this plague. Like the disciples on the Sea of Galilee who were in the boat with Jesus when the storm came, we need to trust Jesus and follow him. He is the one who can give rest to those who are weary and burdened. He is the one who says, “I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28).
So, as we celebrate the Passover and Easter this week, let us pray for deliverance, praise God for securing deliverance for us through the cross, and hope in what God is doing and will do. The current moment is a powerful reminder of our need for God and his saving work!