Exit To Freedom

Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.

Hebrews 2:14-15

These two verses in Hebrews 2 are rich with meaning. Jesus set us free from being enslaved by the fear of death. Here, through the mention of slavery, the writer offers a reminder of how God repeatedly set His people free from earthly captivity. Throughout time, God has proven that He is an expert in freedom and in bringing life out of what appears to be dead.

In Exodus, the second book of the Bible, we see God’s creativity in freeing His people from Egyptian slavery. I admit that I was a little hesitant about reading this book, thinking it would be pretty hard to understand. But Exodus is thrilling! In this historical account written by Moses, God’s people exit Egypt after four hundred years of bondage. Generation after generation had held on to hope that God would finally free them—and then one day He did free His people, all at once. The word exodus actually means a departure of a large number of people at one time.

Just as God ended the bondage that characterized the Israelites’ lives, His Son’s sacrifice for our sins meant the exodus of death’s power, the end of spiritual slavery for all who turn to Him for salvation.

Everywhere we go, we see exit signs, which can be visible reminders of how God loves to free us from whatever threatens to bind us. Just as surely as God freed His people from slavery, He has freed us from our sins and our fear of death. Jesus is our exodus from this world’s failings as we enter into an abundant relationship with Him. He is our exit from hopelessness and our entrance to life—now and for eternity.

Next time you steer onto the “exodus” ramp, be encouraged! Thank Jesus that His exits always mean something good is up ahead.