Because the Lord kept vigil that night to bring them out of Egypt, on this night all the Israelites are to keep vigil to honor the Lord for the generations to come. Exodus 12:42 (Chapter 12)
One of the most important nights in the history of mankind is happening. A nation is being born and The Lord is going to judge all of Egypt’s gods (vs. 12). EVERYONE will know that God alone is all powerful and has full authority over all creation when The blood of sacrifice on the doors of the Israelites protects them from death and brings them freedom. This is momentous! It must not be forgotten! So God declares that for generations to come, Israel will celebrate this event and remember.
God doesn’t need our worship, but He demands it. Why? Is He petty? NO! It is for our spiritual well being. God, as our creator, knows that we must always be mindful that He alone saves and delivers us from bondage.
Passover is to be revered. Only Israelites, or foreigners that have been circumcised, may take part in this celebration centered around family. It is NOT to be blended with other secular activities, it will remain Holy.
I like a great holiday as much as the next person, but there are things about the One, True, Holy God that needs to be set apart from things of casual, secular life. It is for the health of our souls that we take designated, undistracted and uninterrupted time to worship and remember all that God is and has done. He is worthy of our praise.
Love,
Gretchen