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Rabbi Linda's Weekly Message |
January 10, 2025 |
Dear Friends,
This week’s Torah portion closes the first book, the book of Genesis. Vayechi (Genesis 47:28-50:26) means “and he lived", referring to Jacob. Jacob is on his deathbed as he offers distinct blessings to his male children. Many have discussed whether or not these blessings were truly blessings or, rather, a moment when a father could tell his sons exactly how he saw them couched in the language of blessings. Biblically, blessings are powerful end of life moments for both Isaac and Jacob. Their power as patriarchs is on full display. Jacob upsets expectations when he blesses Joseph’s sons, making them his heirs and giving the younger the stronger blessing. His blessings for his remaining sons appear less like blessings and more like appraisals of them.
Despite this biblical example, most would agree that bestowing blessings are a positive exercise. Our tradition invites us to bless both the mundane and the extraordinary. The process of praising the Divine at these moments provides an opportunity to be completely present in the moment. Whether we express our gratitude for waking up in the morning or express our delight at seeing a rainbow, we find ourselves standing up and saying yes to life. When we truly bless the moment, we become conduits of holiness. A blessing is an extraordinary gift, not to be taken lightly.
Mitzvah of the Week
We are in a new calendar year and so much has already happened -- so much over which we have little or no control. The fires still being fought in Los Angeles destroyed a synagogue, along with so, so many people’s homes, among them those of people we know and care about.
At this time, we invite you to reach out to those you know with connections in the areas affected or who live in the fire zone. When you reach out, you have an important job to do - to listen. At this moment, that is what people need. We will know more after the fires subside as to what we can do to help. Reaching out is a very important first step.
| Oseh shalom bimromav, hu ya'aseh shalom aleinu ve'al kol Israel, ve'imru, Amen. |
| May the One who makes peace in the heavens, make peace for us all and all the people of Israel. |
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