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Birthdays are times when we celebrate the length of our life here on earth. If we choose to do so, we can use them to celebrate our past, our present blessings, and even to evaluate progress toward our future aspirations. Dr Randall Smith says that instead of just thinking of ourselves on that day, we might also give thanks for others who have helped make us who we are. When ancient Israel celebrated the Passover, they celebrated a birthday of sorts—their deliverance from slavery and the birth of their nation. We read in Exodus chapter 12 and 13 that to escape the death of their firstborn sons in Egypt when the death angel came, they were to apply the blood of a lamb to their door. About that event, “Moses said to the people, ‘This is a day to remember forever—the day you left Egypt, the place of your slavery.’” In setting this in order he said, ‘This ceremony will be like a mark branded on your hand or your forehead. It is a reminder that the power of the LORD’S mighty hand brought us out of Egypt.’” So they used their national birthday celebration—Passover—to thank God for liberating them. We might well use our birthdays to thank God and others for what they have done for us.
