BEBY Blasts

Shalom Everyone,

I hope everyone had an uplifting, meaningful, and sweet Rosh HaShanah. I am so grateful to all of you who joined us in person and over the livestream of our service and programming.

I have received great feedback on both, and welcome any thoughts or insights you may have to share. 

I heard that, unfortunately, the service stream went down on the second day and am sorry that it wasn't available to anyone virtually. Thankfully, the programming stream WAS on and so our Teens and Kids could still participate in those virtually.

This Shabbat is Shabbat Shuva - the Shabbat of Return. On Rosh HaShanah (day 2) I discussed that Malchuyot, Zichronot, Shofarot are about being mindful of the present, past, and ultimately looking toward the future we want to create. 

Shabbat Shuva, therefore is the day that we reflect on HOW we will get where we want to go.

Yom Kippur, next Wednesday night and Thursday, is the day that we remove all obstacles to getting where we want to go. I hope you will join us either in person or via livestream for Yom Kippur morning services and programs as well.

Gmar Chatima Tova and have a wonderful Shabbat! May we all be sealed in the book of Life and Goodness.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE PROGRAMMING INFORMATION!

Parshat Vayelech - Strength and Courage

Moshe has reached his final day and turns to Yehoshua (Joshua), who will be his successor. He charges him with the words "Chazak v'Ematz - be strong and courageous". 

The strength and courage needed to lead the people is primary, but Moshe's next words tell a different story. Moshe explains to Yehoshua that HaShem will be guiding him and the nation as they enter the land of Israel and that there is nothing to fear or worry about at all.

Ultimately, Moshe's charge to Yehoshua is to be strong and courageous enough to trust HaShem, and to guide the Nation of Israel with the same strength and courage.

As we begin this new year, let us all receive Moshe's blessing: Chazak v'Ematz! Let us be strong and courageous enough to trust HaShem to guide through the uncertainty of the future, and know that we will ultimately reach our destination, our promised land, our Israel.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does it mean to be strong? What does it mean to be courageous?
2. ​​​​​​​How can you be strong without being courageous or be courageous without being strong?
3. How will you be "strong and courageous" in this new year?
   

For more information about what is happening at Beth Emeth go to: ​​​​​​​ www.beby.org

Rabbi David,
Director of Ritual and NEXTgen Community
rabbidavid@beby.org