In celebrating the Passover, the Israelites had to be careful to do so according to God’s commands (v1-5). In our worship we must decide what we do by what makes us happy by but what God’s word says pleases God.

The question arises about whether those who are unclean because of contact with a dead body can share in the Passover (v6-7; see Leviticus 5 v3; 21 v11). Moses, this great man of God, in answering this question does not give his own opinion but seeks God’s will (v8). This again emphasises how what matters is not what we want or think, but rather what God reveals He wants and thinks in His word.

God in His grace allows for the ceremonially unclean who have sincere desire to share in it to partake of this feast (v9-12). God though is not casual about the observance of the Passover and those unwilling to share in it are to be cut off, excommunicated from God’s people (v13).

This reminds us of the need for diligence in sharing in worship, listening to preaching and partaking in the sacraments. God’s worship must be done Biblically, sincerely and consistently. Pray about how you worship.