In Exodus 12:2 the Lord says to Israel:

הַחֹדֶשׁ הַזֶּה לָכֶם, רֹאשׁ חֳדָשִׁים

“This month shall be to you the beginning of months…”

Insignificant? This time marker for the month of Nissan (March/April on our calendar) reveals something vital – freedom. The Lord issued a command, because Israel would now be free.

Those in bondage do not manage their own time, it is managed, or dare I say, it is the possession of someone else. Yet, the Lord returning time, and therefore life to Israel, is also instruction them to manage their time, and their lives wisely.

The gift of time is a gift of life. The Lord established markers in time: new moons, festivals and Shabbat not only to mark the year, but to refresh our lives.

A new week, a new month, or a new season breaks up the seeming unending sameness. Why? Because without these reminders of freedom, we become enslaved once again; perhaps not to a pharaoh, but to the mocking monotony of the doldrums.

“This shall be the beginning of months for you…” this shall be the beginning of sanctifying time, recognizing it as a holy gift, and using it to improve not only your own life but the community around you.

In 2020 so much was taken away from us, but the Lord has given us the gift of time. Now, as people free in Him, how shall we use it?

That, I leave to you. Use your imagination.

Be well; shalom.