Friday 13 April 2012

Background

The firstborn of the Israelite children - often believed to bethe best at this time - belonged to the Lord because they had beenspared by God. The Israelite Firstborn were not touched by death onthe night of the Passover but spared through God'scompassion.

My Jewish friend tells a story of how this was symbolised 30 daysafter the birth of her firstborn son. Three silver coins were paidto an uncle - a hereditary, but not active, priest called a Cohen -because, as she understood it, her son belonged to the temple whereall firstborn Israelites were meant to work for God. The silvercoins bought his freedom from this role. The Jewish mother iscalled to assume no 'right' to the child until this rite has beenperformed.

The Passover is therefore remembered at the first birth in allJewish families, and after this there is a day of fasting for alladult firstborns each year. This helps the whole community toremember God's love and mercy to their ancient forebears, andconsequently to themselves also.

Any mother (and perhaps father?) will know that the miracle of newbirth, particularly the first time round, can point you to God. Istill remember my sincerity and the gratitude in my own heart thefirst time I brought my then baby daughter up for a blessing as Iwent to Holy Communion.

All children belong to God and are constant reminders to us ofGod's love and grace. The connection between parent and child -andthe potential for spiritual growth in the unfolding relationship isone we all know well (as a child, if not as a parent aswell).

And God, knowing this too, turns it all on its head and gives usGod's only son. It is through the son that the father and earthlychildren may be united in unending love and mutualunderstanding.

To Ponder

How have your experiences as a parent or a childhelped you to grow spiritually?

Do you believe that God develops through God'sown relationship with us? Why?