How can we spiritually prepare ourselves for significant religious events today? Purifying Before the Passover “Now the Jewish Passover was near, and many people went up from the country to Jerusalem to purify themselves before the Passover.” – John 11:55 The crowds didn’t head straight to the feast; they first sought purity. Their example offers a clear roadmap for our own preparation whenever a significant moment with God draws near. Why Preparation Matters • God repeatedly links blessing to readiness (Exodus 19:10–11; Luke 2:41–43). • Jesus fulfills the Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7); therefore, approaching Him carelessly dishonors His perfect work. • Unprepared hearts miss what the Spirit wants to reveal (Matthew 13:14–15). Step 1: Admit the Need for Cleansing • “Let a man examine himself…” (1 Corinthians 11:28). • “Search me, O God, and know my heart” (Psalm 139:23). • Honest confession clears the conscience and invites renewal (1 John 1:9). Step 2: Draw Near Through Repentance and Faith • “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). • Repentance isn’t mere regret; it’s turning from sin toward Christ’s sufficiency. • Hebrews 10:22 joins a “true heart” with “full assurance of faith.” Step 3: Align Outer Life With Inner Devotion • The pilgrims journeyed physically to Jerusalem; outward obedience reflected inward desire. • Practical parallels today: – Remove distractions (digital fasts, calendar adjustments). – Set apart special offerings or acts of service (Romans 12:1). – Practice communion with fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24–25). Step 4: Focus on the Lamb • Every Passover found its climax in a slain lamb (Exodus 12:5–7). • John the Baptist points, “Behold, the Lamb of God” (John 1:29). • Meditate on the cross, resurrection, and promised return whenever holy days approach. Step 5: Cultivate Joyful Expectation • Preparation is not drudgery but anticipation (Psalm 122:1). • God delights to meet prepared people (2 Chronicles 16:9). • The Spirit produces peace and joy as hearts align with Him (Romans 15:13). Practical Checklist for Today’s Believer • Schedule unhurried Scripture reading in the days leading up to the event. • Fast from something meaningful to heighten spiritual appetite. • Engage in focused intercession for family, church, community. • Settle relational conflicts quickly (Matthew 5:23–24). • Participate in corporate worship and the Lord’s Supper with reverence. • Keep a journal of insights and answered prayers to remember God’s faithfulness. Encouraging Promises While You Prepare • Psalm 24:3–4 – Clean hands and a pure heart find entrance to God’s holy place. • Isaiah 57:15 – God dwells with the contrite and lowly. • John 14:23 – Jesus manifests Himself to those who love and obey Him. Standing where the Passover pilgrims once stood, we too can approach every significant spiritual occasion with cleansed hearts, clear focus, and confident expectation, assured that the God who commanded preparation also supplies grace for it. |
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