For many people all over the world who
attend this ancient Jewish re-enactment, the most important and profound
question they often ask is, “how long till we eat?” While some
seders can go on for
hours upon hours before ever sensing the first whiff of matzoh ball chicken soup
or gefilte fish on a bed of crisp lettuce, this seder is designed to get to the meal in about
one hour and 15 minutes.
For those who like to delay the meal even
longer, feel free to improvise and take your chances with the rest of the people
seated with you at the table. And for those who think this is too long, I remind
you that the injunction during the seder is to participate as if we ourselves
were there. So sit back,
and participate in your moment of vicarious multi-generational suffering. For
some this may seem like 40 years in the wilderness, but be assured that when you
emerge from your suffering, and the meal is served, your appreciation for its
taste, texture, and gastronomical satisfaction will soon be that much sweeter.
Your momentary time of empathetic affliction will soon be forgotten and replaced
with the joyous celebration of God’s deliverance power (and perhaps a satisfying
belch or two).
For leaders who feel overwhelmed by those
who complain all night, be encouraged by the example of Moses, who as a leader,
patiently persevered through the same annoying people problems; Only remember,
his complainers persisted for 40 years. Therefore, lead on! You only have them
with you for one night.
One more added side dish
side-bar: If there is
any concern about the culinary capabilities of the people preparing the meal,
remember, the Bible teaches, the longer it takes to get to the meal, the more
delicious that meal will be. ‘To the hungry (famished) man every bitter thing
is sweet’ — Proverbs
27:7.