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.