"Vows of Volunteerism"
In this week's portion, Naso, we read about the Nazarite vow, which balances those three qualities: a desire to serve, a need to strive, and a measure of restraint. It's a voluntary, temporary commitment to God's service.
“How to Pack for a Long Journey”
Numbers is a book for adults. Not because of sexual content (that would be Genesis) or theological complexity (Exodus), but because it's about choices and consequences. Every choice we make will generate an infinite number of reactions.
Living with Uncertainty
I can only imagine what it was like to be an Israelite. Our ancestors, after centuries of slavery and imprisonment, were finally free. But that freedom came with a cost: they needed to spend 40 years wandering in the wilderness.
Opening Up to Each Other
This interpretation teaches that the blasphemer first wanted to express to the Israelite community that he was just like them. He blesses God, just as they did. But, as they continue to quarrel with him, question his beliefs, and separate themselves from him, he does the only thing left in his power: curse God.
We Are All Culpable
This Shabbat, we arrive, smack dab in the middle of the Torah. The double portion Acharei Mot-Kedoshim includes the Holiness Code which serves as the very heart of the Torah.
Moving Forward: The Eighth Day
If Parashat Sh’mini was an episode of a TV show, it would begin with dramatic music followed by a big, booming voice announcing: “Previously in the Torah, our ancestors navigated the meaning of purity and sacrifice. The kohanim prepared for their ordination as the spiritual leaders of the Israelite community.
Looking Out for Those in Need
This week’s double Torah portion, Parashat Tazria/M’tzora, is a doozy! The poor bar/bat/bet mitzvah student whose celebratory moment falls on this Shabbat!
The Multitude of Voices
Our Passover story is a complex tale that addresses over 400 years of history. There is one modern ritual that typically occurs during the middle of the seder that celebrates our freedom. Many Reform and liberal Jews pour water into a cup to remember Miriam, a prophet and leader of our community in her own right.
Making Room at Our Tables
On my first Shabbat as the newest student rabbi at Temple Beth Ha-Shalom, a small Reform congregation in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, I introduced myself, began learning names, and met congregants for the very first time. As I was speaking with some members, I heard a young boy exclaim to his father: “Dad, the rabbi is a man! I thought only women could be rabbis?”
A Modern Answer to God’s Call
It's so easy to ignore texts or let calls go to voicemail. Often, we're just too busy to answer the phone or we're focusing on an important task. Sometimes, though, it's someone important to us like a parent, child, significant other, or boss! How often can we ignore that call?
