Introduction:
The Lord's Passover, also known simply as Passover, is one of the most significant feasts in the biblical tradition, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It is a foundational event in the history of Israel and is rich with theological significance, foreshadowing the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Origin:
The institution of the Passover is recorded in the Book of Exodus. God commanded Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites to take a lamb without blemish, sacrifice it, and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. This act would protect them from the final plague—the death of the firstborn—sent upon Egypt. Exodus 12:13 states, "The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will fall on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt."

Observance:
The Passover is observed on the 14th day of the first month, Nisan, in the Hebrew calendar. The feast begins with the Passover meal, which includes the eating of unleavened bread and bitter herbs, as a reminder of the haste in which the Israelites left Egypt and the bitterness of their bondage. Exodus 12:14 commands, "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD. You are to celebrate it as a perpetual statute for the generations to come."

Symbolism and Typology:
The Passover lamb is a central symbol, representing innocence and sacrifice. The New Testament identifies Jesus Christ as the ultimate Passover Lamb. In 1 Corinthians 5:7 , Paul writes, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." This typology underscores the belief that just as the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites, the blood of Christ redeems believers from sin and death.

The Feast of Unleavened Bread:
The Passover is immediately followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, lasting seven days. During this time, no leaven is to be found in the homes of the Israelites, symbolizing the removal of sin and the call to holiness. Exodus 12:15 instructs, "For seven days you must eat unleavened bread. On the first day, you are to remove the leaven from your houses."

Historical and Cultural Context:
The Passover is not only a religious observance but also a cultural and historical event that has shaped Jewish identity. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and deliverance, reinforcing the covenant relationship between God and His people.

New Testament Fulfillment:
The Gospels record that Jesus celebrated the Passover with His disciples, known as the Last Supper, before His crucifixion. This event is seen as the institution of the Lord's Supper or Communion, where Jesus reinterprets the elements of the Passover meal in light of His impending sacrifice. Luke 22:19-20 recounts, "And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.'"

Theological Significance:
The Lord's Passover is a profound testament to God's power, mercy, and plan of salvation. It highlights themes of liberation, sacrifice, and covenant, which are central to the biblical narrative. The Passover not only commemorates a historical event but also points to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, offering a rich tapestry of meaning for both Jewish and Christian faiths.