When your children ask you what this ceremony means to you,
One generation will praise your deeds to the next. Each generation will talk about your mighty acts.
O God, we have heard it with our own ears. Our ancestors have told us about the miracle you performed in their day, in days long ago.
You will be able to tell your children and grandchildren exactly how I treated the Egyptians and what miraculous signs I did among them. This is how you will all know that I am the Lord.”
When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony.
The column of smoke was always in front of the people during the day. The column of fire was always there at night.
Those who are living praise you as I do today. Fathers make your faithfulness known to their children.
Fathers, don’t make your children bitter about life. Instead, bring them up in Christian discipline and instruction.
Teach them to your children, and talk about them when you’re at home or away, when you lie down or get up.
Remember a time long ago. Think about all the past generations. Ask your fathers to remind you, and your leaders to tell you.
In the future your children will ask you, “What do these regulations, laws, and rules which the Lord our God commanded you mean to you?”
Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you’re at home or away, when you lie down or get up.
