"Why This Night is Like No Other..."

Dear David,

Tonight marks the first night of the Passover.

Tonight we celebrate, as well as observe the memory of an awesome event in the history of mankind.

Although the word "Awesome" is misused in society today, such as when used to describe the features of a new car. The true meaning of the word "Awesome" is to be in "Awe", and specifically relates to the power of G-d. And as with many events in history, and many events pertaining to the power of G-d, it can be both wonderful and terrible in the same instance.

The Passover is no exception.

The Passover represents both the Beginning of the End of a time of bondage for the people of Israel, and also the End of the Beginning for the people of Egypt, and a time of great suffering due to the loss of the first born of all Egyptian families.

In the same moment when G-d brought "Deliverence", He also brought "Judgement": "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." Exodus 12:12-13

This is but one of the many attributes of G-d, Deliverence/Judgement in the same act.

The Passover as a significant point in the history of the human race stands as a clear message to all mankind as what happens to those who obey G-d, as well as those who refuse.

So today we begin the "celebration" of Passover, as well as make time to observe the suffering of those who lost loved ones, and in all things know that G-d is the same today, as yesterday, and forever.

He is Awesome and able to do all things, and as always loves those who love him.