All human beings are in the slavery of corruption and death caused by sin: "For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:22-23; see also Romans 6:16; 8:21; Hebrews 2:14-15).

What frees us from this burden of sin? The sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the lamb of God! God the Father willingly gave up His first-born Son, and Jesus voluntarily shed His life blood.

Why? Why couldn't God just forgive our sins without this sacrifice? Why did Jesus Christ have to suffer and die for our sins (Philippians 2:8)?

The truth is that there is no other way to save humanity from the consequences of sin.

Accepting the sacrifice of Christ enables our reconciliation with God and puts us on the path of eternal life. "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us . . . For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, . . . through whom we have now received the reconciliation" (Romans 5:8. 10-11).

God will not compromise with His perfect law. (Matthew 5:17-20; 19:17; Psalm 19:7). God's law is summarized in the two great commandments of love: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" and "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:36-40).

By keeping the Passover we once again express our desire to walk God's way without compromise.

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!