10/27/2023
Desert Sky by Laya Crust
The first reading in the Torah, parashat Bereisheet, includes the narrative of Cain murdering his brother Abel in jealousy and anger. The second reading of the Torah, p[arashat Noah, describes the chaos and evil that prompted God to flood the world and start a new group of people through Noah. In this week's reading, L**h L**ha, Abraham goes to war. He saves Lot and his family from warriors who are holding them hostage.
Avraham was already in his eighties when God told him they would begin a new nation. "He (God) brought him outside and said, "Look now toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to number them." And He said to him, "So shall your seed be." (ch. 15 v.5) On a clear night the desert sky is unbelievable. It is so crowded with stars that one wonders how many diamonds can fit up there. And that was God's promise to this man and woman who traveled the land together and were our first leaders.
There are millions of Jews living in Israel and around the world. We have never disappeared. God kept His promise. Our history hasn't been an easy or pleasant one, but we're still here! And we have our homeland, Israel.
Acheinu by Laya Crust
Translation: As for our brothers, the whole house of Israel, who are given over to trouble or captivity, whether they abide on the sea or on the dry land: May the All-present have mercy upon them, and bring them forth from trouble to enlargement, from darkness to light, and from subjection to redemption, now speedily and at a near time.
It is October, 2023. We Jews are facing another war. Three weeks ago, on October 7, HAMAS attacked Israel, intending to annihilate Israel and all the Jews of the world. They massacred over 1,200 innocent people, including babies, pregnant mothers, and infirm seniors. They abducted 224 individuals- again babies, pregnant women, ill seniors and others) to be held as hostages. These atrocities are being applauded by anti-semites around the world.
Abraham and Sarah's story in the Bible is being repeated today. Abraham and Sarah hosted the needy and the poor. They exemplified justice. Jews around the world are pouring their abilities, their money, and their energies into helping everyone in the world who is being affected by this war. Israelis are opening their kitchens, homes, and hearts to soldiers, evacuees, the wounded, and those in mourning. Jews across the world are speaking out to support Jews and Zionists in cities, on campuses, and in unions who are facing misplaced hatred.
Abraham put his life on the line to try and save his nephew's family. He bargained to save the righteous in S***m and Gomorrah. He and Sarah opened their home and hearts to those in need. Jews and those who support Jews are doing the same today. Atrocities against humanity and genocide continue to this day. It has to be fought on many fronts in a variety of ways. We have to fight for freedom, each in our own way.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks wrote a wonderful essay for this difficult time. Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/rabbisacks/posts/999081956809626
May we see peace and all the hostages returned safely. Shabbat Shalom,
Laya
