We have here a new event, a new starting-point a new epoch, and therefore a new era. That event was an emancipation, a redemption, an exodus. There were centuries behind of exile and servitude; of that experience which has been so characteristic of Israel, a sojourning which was no naturalisation, a dwelling amongst, without becoming of, another nation; estrangement therefore, isolation, solitude, even in populous cities, and amidst teeming multitudes. Now, all this is behind them. They are to quit the homeless home. Egypt behind, Sinai before, Canaan beyond; this is the exact account of the position of Israel when the words of the text were spoken. Redemption was the starting-point of the new; from it all that follows shall take a new character, a new life.
I. The idea of a new start is naturally attractive to all of us. We are fatigued, we are wearied, we are dissatisfied, and justly so, with the time past of our lives. We long for a gift of amnesty and oblivion.
II. There are senses in which this is impossible. The continuity of life cannot be broken. There is a continuity, a unity, an identity, which annihilation only could destroy.
III. "The beginning of months" is made so by an exodus. Redemption is the groundwork of the new life. If there is in any of us a real desire for change, we must plant our feet firmly on redemption.
IV. When we get out of Egypt, we must remember that there is still Sinai in front, with its thunderings and voices. We have to be schooled and disciplined by processes not joyous but grievous. These processes cannot be hurried, they must take time. Here we must expect everything that is changeful, and unresting, and unreposeful, within as without. But He who has promised will perform. He who has redeemed will save. He who took charge will also bring through.
C. J. Vaughan, Words of Hope,p. 65.
References: Exodus 12:1-20. Parker, vol. ii., p. 66. Exodus 12:2. Parker, vol. ii., p. 313; A. Mursell, Christian World Pulpit,vol. xix., p. 88. Exodus 12:3; Exodus 12:4. Spurgeon, My Sermon Notes,p. 30. Exodus 12:5; Exodus 12:6. G. Calthrop, Church Sermons,vol. i., p. 347. Exodus 12:7; Exodus 12:8. Clergyman's Magazine,vol. xxii., p. 204.Exodus 12:11. M. Nicholson, Redeeming the Time,p. 305.Exodus 12:11-14. J. R. Macduff, Communion Memories,p. 125.