March 3, 2023 Brethren Letter

Dear Brethren,

In just a few weeks, we will be observing the Passover (Leviticus 23:5). The following night is the “Night to be Much Observed” (Exodus 12:41-42), which also starts the Days of Unleavened Bread (Leviticus 23:6-8). We observe these days, not because of any traditions of men, but because God commands that we observe them. These Festivals are HIS!

Passover is the very first step in God’s master plan. It has tremendous meaning for us. Observance of this festival should NEVER become old or kept with very little thought about its meaning. Passover represents the suffering and death of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He was willing to pay the death penalty for our sins, in our stead. How could any one of us ever take this service lightly? “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

Each of us must look at our level of conversion, FAITH, and depth of understanding concerning the New Testament Symbols that Christ instituted for the Passover!

I Corinthians 11:23-26

[23] “For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread;

[24] and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’

[25] In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’

[26] For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes”

We’ll be talking more about the symbols of the bread and wine in upcoming sermons prior to the Passover. Christ also gave us another aspect of the Passover service to observe before we partake of the bread and wine (John 13:1-17). This unique part of the ceremony to the disciples was the fact that Jesus Christ was on His knees humbly serving them by washing their feet, and setting an example for us to follow.

“Foot-washing” is often referred to as the “ordinance of humility.” I suggest we reread John 13 prior to the Passover, to reflect on why this would be the

first part of the Passover service and not the last. Think of it brethren, how could anyone rightly partake of the bread and wine if he or she does not have godly humility first? “Foot-washing” is intended to be an outward display of humility.

In these next few weeks, let’s continue to meditate on these all-important symbols Christ instituted. We should be strengthening our relationship with God the Father and Jesus Christ our High Priest, more and more each year.

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow and fellowshipping with you! Please have a good night’s rest!

Your Brother in Christ,

Gary Liebold