Exodus 13 — Thoughts
Why the Pillar of Cloud and Fire Reminds Me of Communion
It’s easy to focus on circumstances beyond our control and forget to trust in God. They’re visible, while God, on the other hand, is invisible. We know He’s there, but he’s not demanding our attention like other things do.
Sometimes, I envy the freed Hebrew slaves. They had the pillar of cloud and fire — an enormous, visible reminder of God’s presence and power. They could smell the smoke, feel the heat, and see how much bigger it was than anything else.
Would it be easier for us to trust God if we had something like that before us? Something we could take in with our senses?
God has already given that to us. Before the Hebrews started following God’s pillar of cloud and fire, God instructed them to hold a Passover celebration. And it was at a Passover, thirteen centuries later, that Jesus led His disciples in the Lord’s Supper. Giving them bread and wine, He told them:
“This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me… (Luke 22:19)” and “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28).
Communion reminds us of what Jesus did on the cross. His death ransomed our lives. Our sin wasn’t just another thing beyond our control — it was the single most consequential obstacle we will ever face. And yet, Jesus removed it for us. If He can do that, He can remove any obstacle we truly need Him to.
And this promise comes with a symbol: bread and wine. It’s not as dramatic or impressive as cloud and fire, but it’s something for our senses. We can touch it, smell it, taste it — and know that God is even closer to us than these elements we consume.
This realization has caused communion to take on a new, more profound significance for me. God doesn’t want us to remember Him for His sake but for ours. He knows we need this tangible reminder.
Would I still like to see clouds on fire? Sure. But the bread and the wine will carry me until I see my Savior return in glory — and that will be even better.
(Originally written April 26, 2020)