READ THE BIBLE IN 2022: This past week we read from Genesis 45 through Exodus 15. Many key verses standout, including Exodus 3:2 and Exodus 12:11. The account of God speaking from a burning bush is seen in the third chapter of Exodus. It is important to note that the One speaking to Moses is the “Angel of the LORD” (v 2), and is a manifestation of the pre-Incarnate Jesus, who identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (v 6) and the great “I AM” (v 14). Exodus 12:11 is the first time the Passover is referenced in Holy Scripture. The Passover points forward to Jesus “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (Jn 1:29) The Passover lamb was to be a male without blemish—a description of Christ. The lamb’s blood was placed on the doorposts and lintel to indicate God’s people where inside so the “destroyer” (Ex 12:23) would not enter their homes to bring death. In a similar way the Blood of Christ covers our sins and ransoms us from eternal death (1Ptr 1:18-19). Also, God told Moses the Passover month would be “the first month of the year” (Ex 12:1). Their time of slavery in Egypt was over and their sins were forgiven. Truly, this was a time of new beginnings. This week, January 23-29, read from Exodus 16 - 35.