Rabbi's Message

Several students from Have Faith Haiti will be with us this Shabbat.  The visit was planned before the U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear installations, but that may add additional meaning to the visit.  More about that in a moment, but first, a few words about the Parashah.
וַיִּקַּ֣ח קֹ֔רַח –“And Korah took.”  The opening words of this week's Parashah may be the key to understanding the essence of Korah’s rebellion against the leadership of Moses.  Korah was a “taker.”  Community is built by giving, not taking.  That’s how you create a congregation, a nation, and peoplehood.  We give of our means; we give of ourselves.

Since October 7, all of us at TBS have given our constant attention and effort to the support of Israel, and it has brought us all closer to each other and the Jewish people as a whole.  Israel’s war to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon has only added to that.  I am sure that all of you have reached out to family and friends by phone calls, texts, and e-mails.  This week, I spoke to my sister in B’er Sheva and texted with my friend Uri, who sent pictures of his children and grandchildren with him in his Ma'amad (reinforced safe room). 

My many e-mails just to check in on friends and ask, “How are you holding up?” also brought responses. Daniel Mor is a Vice President of the Jewish Agency whom I met through our local Federation.   My message:  “Hope you, your family, and your community are all safe.  Praying for the success and safe return of IDF forces and for the well-being of all in Israel. Shabbat Shalom.” Her reply: “Thank you, dear Rabbi Lindeman! How are you and Jane?” Frankly, I find it almost embarrassing to have her say “Thank you.”  It’s humbling and so moving.  Connection. Community. Giving.  We give each other strength. 

Of course, we expect that from each other as part of the Jewish people.  But when it comes from others, it can have an additional emotional impact. Yonel Ismael is the Director of the Have Faith Haiti Mission Orphanage.  I usually stay in his apartment when I go down there to teach. We have often discussed theology and differing Christian and Jewish interpretations of the Bible. When the missiles from Iran started to fly, he sent this message, “Hi Rabbi Steve, I’m sorry to see what Israel is going through.  I hope you and your family are safe.  I will keep you guys in my prayers.  My wife and I send our love.” Similar words and prayers came from my friend Halie, who is Director of  Volunteers. Connection.  Friendship. Giving. We give each other strength.  

Now, you see how it all comes together: Israel, Haiti, and the Torah.  This coming Shabbat, three new college students from the Orphanage will be visiting TBS.  Over the years, I have taught all of them in my Bible classes.  My friend Halie will also be joining us. And, at the last minute, the Director of Have Faith Haiti, Yonel, and his wife, Sabrina, will be with us. After Shaharit and Kiddush, I hope that you will have a chance to meet these extraordinary young men and women and hear a bit about their background and experiences in Haiti. 

Friendship. Connection. Community. By sharing our stories and concerns, we give each other strength — and God knows, all of us need that these days.