Exodus 13

Remembering Our Identity: Lessons from Exodus 13

As we gather together to reflect on Exodus 13, we’re reminded of a pivotal moment in Israel’s history and its profound implications for us today. This chapter speaks of God claiming the firstborn of both humans and animals, a powerful declaration that sets the stage for a deeper understanding of our identity as followers of Christ.

God’s Claim on Our Lives

In Exodus 13:1-2, we see God instructing His people to dedicate their firstborns to Him. This isn’t just a ritual; it’s a profound statement of ownership. Just as sin seeks to claim us, reminiscent of how the White Witch laid claim to Edmund in The Chronicles of Narnia, God asserts His authority over His people. Under the blood of the lamb, we belong to Him. This act of dedication symbolizes a commitment to ensure that future generations follow YHWH.

Yet, this claim leads us to a critical transition: while the Israelites were freed from the oppression of Egypt, they remained ensnared in the bondage of sin. Generations would continue to make the same mistakes, emphasizing their need for a true liberator—Jesus, the Passover lamb, who came to free us from the chains of sin.

The Firstborn and Our Redemption

Jesus is described as the firstborn, conceived by the Holy Spirit and the sustainer of all creation (Colossians 1; Revelation 1). His resurrection marks Him as the firstborn from among the dead (Col. 1:18; Rev. 1:5). What God delivers from death belongs to Him, and through our faith in Christ, we are also called to complete consecration—our lives transformed in obedience to our Redeemer.

Frances Ridley Havergal’s hymn, "Take My Life and Let It Be," resonates deeply with this calling. Our obedience is not a means to earn God’s favor; it is a response to the grace He freely gives.

The Importance of Remembrance

In our community and family, we must prioritize teaching the faith. Scripture emphasizes remembrance—“remember” and “do not forget” are recurring themes. Why? Because we tend to forget! Just as the Israelites were instructed to shape their calendars around God’s actions (Exodus 12:1-2, 13:3-10), we too should consider what dictates our lives. Is it work, school, or vacations?

Our faith invites us to shape our identity around God’s story. The festivals in Exodus were not merely commemorative; they were reenactments that engaged God’s people as active participants in His redemptive narrative. In the Last Supper, Luke underscores this by mentioning Passover multiple times, showing us how it shapes our identity as well. Sin is no longer our master; we belong to Christ.

A New Identity

Imagine the life of a slave under a cruel master who, one day, is redeemed at a great price. He may still hear the old master’s commands, but he is no longer obligated to obey. Similarly, we are called to remember to whom we now belong. Romans 8:14 tells us that those led by the Spirit are children of God. Our liberation from sin mirrors Israel’s liberation from slavery.

Just as Israel passed through the Red Sea, our baptism signifies our death and resurrection with Christ. The Law, which Moses received at Sinai, is now written on our hearts through the Spirit. Just as Israel followed the pillars of smoke and fire, we are guided by the Holy Spirit into new creation.

Our Mission as God’s People

We are reminded to teach and impress upon our children the love and commandments of God (Deuteronomy 4:9-10, 6:4-9). This is not merely for our benefit but to extend God’s love to the world. Israel was chosen not just for themselves, but to make God famous among the nations. The language of firstfruits in Jeremiah signifies that Israel’s redemption was just the beginning—there is much more fruit to come!

Conclusion

As we reflect on Exodus 13, let’s remember who we are, whose we are, and what we are here for. The chapter closes with God guiding His people out of Egypt by a pillar of fire and cloud, fulfilling promises and laying a strategic path for their journey.

In our own lives, may we recognize God’s guidance, dedicate our firstborn—our very lives—to Him, and participate actively in the unfolding story of redemption. Together, let’s live out this identity and calling, shaping our lives around the incredible grace of our Redeemer.