Here & There Column 4-2-13

Gratification In The Passover Sedar

  Both the Bible's old and new testament make reference to Passover. In Exodus 12:13-14 it reads, "now the blood shall be a sign for you on houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you.....So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep is as a feast to the Lord throughout your generations."

  In 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 it reads, "for indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast"

  The Passover Sedar is celebrated yearly by both those of the Jewish faith and many of the Christian faith

  The Liberty Christian based Lighthouse Ministries, a Pentecostal Church affiliated with the Elim Fellowship and pastored by  Rich and Cathy Ienuso held a Passover Sedar March 23.

  At this Passover Sedar David and Rachel Liebman, Messianic Jews, representing the worldwide organization known as Jews For Jesus, outlined and displayed to the Lighthouse Ministries congregation the Passover Sedar.

  Members of the Lighthouse were informed about the traditional Passover Seder Plate and that the four cups used during the Sedar represented sanctification, plagues/judgement, redemption/blessing and praise (though some traditions call it the cup of acceptance).

  Important and meaningful Jewish Passover terminology used during the service included Afkomen (that which comes later) the piece of matzoh hidden during the seder, Chagigah--roasted egg, Charoset--mixture of apples, cinnamon and nuts resembling mortar, Chazerat--the bitter root, Chametz--with leven, Feast of Unleavened Bread--a seven day feast that coincides with Passover, during which time no leaven is to be eaten, Haggadah--service book, literally "the telling", Karpas--greens, Maror--ground bitter herb, Matzoh--unleavened bread, Pesach--Passover, Seder--"set order" of Passover service and Z'roa--shankbone of a lamb.

  We tasted parsley sprigs, hard-boiled eggs, ground horseradish and Charoset on matzoh with all being dipped in water and salt.

  This important religious event with its blessings, answering of the four questions along with responsive readings and prayer brings forth Faith in God and the verse from Genesis 12:1-3 which reads, "all families of the earth were to be blessed through Abraham." 

                                                     

                                            

Lighthouse Ministries Pastors Kathy and Rich Ienuso with David and Rachel Liebman and 11/2 month old Micah at the churches Passover Sedar March 23. Additional photos of the Sedar service.