Rabbi's Corner

Message from the Rabbi

"These are the gifts that you shall accept from them." (Exodus 25:3)
In the previous verse God instructs the Jewish people to bring gifts in order to build the Tabernacle.  In this verse God tells Moses what he should accept from them.  It is God’s way of  saying, we don’t just want your junk, the stuff that has been lying around. There are specific materials that are needed for the building of this holy place. 
However, there is another significant lesson being taught. Accept the gifts that are given to you.  Sometimes in life it is difficult to ask for help and even more challenging to receive it.  We think we are self sufficient or we are embarrassed to need help.  We live in community and when a person is suffering, it is natural for people to want to help.  Let them.  When one person experiences loss, people want to do something. Let them. 

This week's Shabbat Discussion is entitled "Spiritual Preparation for Passover"
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Coming Next Month 
March 20 - 8:00 on zoom at https://zoom.us/j/95417257214?pwd=NjFENloxOEpGSGhrc1M5dWQ4SG9UQT09 ​​​​​​​Whine and Wine
We like to brainstorm ideas about how to survive life.  Or just complain.  In the past we have talked about raising kids or dealing with aging parents or both at the same time.  Well, holidays present their own unique set of challenges, especially Passover.  Let's get it all out and talk or just kvetch.

March 15th and 23rd
Pulpit Swap
Reverend Dr. Blaine Crawford and I will be doing a Pulpit Swap.  That means he will preach in our community on Shabbat morning March 15th (Note the change in date) then the next week I will be preaching in his church, Irvington Presbyterian Church, the next day Sunday March 23rd.  As faith leaders we have so much to share with each other that can inspire.  We look forward to meeting new people and showing off our congregations.