It is the Passover sacrifice to the LORD, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.(NIV) Exodus 12:27
The LORD said to Moses and Aaron: “Tell the whole community of Israel to take a lamb, one for each household and at twilight, slaughter the lambs. Then take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the door frames of the houses. That same night you are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the LORD’s Passover.”
“On that same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn– both men and animals– and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.”
The Israelites did exactly what the LORD had said. At midnight the LORD did just what He had said He would do. During the night Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the LORD as you have requested.” The LORD had made the Egyptians favorably disposed toward the people. (compiled from Exodus 12:1-36)
Written by Marji “Mike” Kruger
