This has been a week of conflict, reflecting deep variance among and between people. It has also been a week of passion and fortitude. In thinking about the coming days, my colleague and friend Rabbi Jacob Blumenthal framed the work ahead in the words of the prophet Micah,
Do Justice -- every legal vote should be counted: It will take time, and there will likely be litigation, but every vote should count. The United States has had centuries of iterating and improving our democracy; at this
moment we need to stand up for those democratic ideals.
Love Goodness -- no process is perfect: God knows all secrets, and any human process meant to discern them will be flawed. No matter what, we must press to ensure that the dignity of every person is upheld through their vote.
Walk Modestly -- have patience: We are a society that has become accustomed to instant knowledge and gratification. But in earlier times, and in other countries, it’s not unusual for election results to take some time. This is especially true during a pandemic, when so many voted by mail in order to stay safe. Harsh words and violence will not make the process go faster, nor will it build the connections needed to heal our society. We should encourage civility along with civic engagement.
To be drawn to justice, goodness and humble walking is sage advice. All of these values call us to remain engaged in the world that is ours to inhabit. While our inclination may be to throw up our hands or run from conflict, these times demand connection and involvement. They are an invitation to relationship building. It is precisely in the midst of these fragile times that we need one another to build connection and maintain our humanity.
This week's parasha, Vayera offers the source for the mitzvah of bikkur holim/visitingthe sick when the Holy One appears to Avraham as he sits at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day while recovering from surgery. Gd shows up not only to check on Avraham but also to model how we extend ourselves to one another when we are not at full strength. Perhaps it is this lesson that motivates Avraham to jump up and greet the three unexpected human travelers near his home, offering generous hospitality.
This week, be like Avraham. Reach out to a friend or family member to remind them of their humanity. And be like the Holy One. Show up on Zoom, Facetime, phone, mask on and at a distance in the park - however works for you - to remind someone they are seen and that you are here for them, to hold them up just as they will hold you up. Bringing holiness into our relationships is precisely what our world needs right now. May we infuse our speech, our actions and our footsteps with sanctity as we find our way forward.
Shabbat Shalom rg
Congregation Habonim 103 West End Ave New York, NY 10023
