The Kingdom of GodIn the readings in Mark’s Gospel, we hear short (at first) parables in which Jesus begins to answer the question, “What is the kingdom of God like?”In some respects, this reminds me of the “Magid” that occurs at the beginning of the Passover Meal (or Seder). “Magid” is Hebrew for “tell”, and at the beginning of the meal, a child (or four if present) all ask a question regarding the night that is being celebrated. This has been the practice at the Passover since the Temple times.The four questions and answers form part of the liturgy
that embraces the night.All adults present are encouraged to ask themselves the same questions.
The questions are:
1) On all nights, we need not dip even once; on this night, we do so twice.
The potatoes and herbs are in salt water, representing the tears we cried in Egypt.
The second dipping represents our freedom granted once and for all.
2) On all nights, we eat chametz or matzah, and on this night only matzah?
Matzvah is the bread of the poor and enslaved people. On the night we left Egypt, we did not have time to let it rise.
3) On all night do we eat any vegetables and on this night maror?
Maror is a bitter herb, reminding us of the bitterness we left behind.
4) On all nights, we eat sitting upright or reclining, and on this night, we all recline.
We commemorate our freedom by reclining on cushions like royalty.There is almost a sense that in listening to the crowd, Jesus begins to answer the most crucial question. The first Exodus led to freedom from slavery; the second will lead to freedom from the slavery of sin. From this somewhat small beginning, many blessings will flow.
Breaking Open 