We are commanded to rid our homes of ḥametz for Pesaḥ. Somewhere during the physical activity of searching, gathering, and burning the ḥametz in our homes, we are drawn to inspect our own lives to find the ḥametz within. But what exactly would be our “ḥametz?” Many of us have heard teachings which equate ḥametz … Continue reading Chametz by Roni Bernstein
When G-d Doesn’t Heal You
As we approach Passover, we begin to think of the miraculous steps that G-d took in bringing his people out of Egypt. We think of the plagues, the blood, the sea swept aside so millions walked across on dry ground. It is ancient news that our G-d is in the business of miracles. The Bible … Continue reading When G-d Doesn’t Heal You
Hiddur Mitzvah
Have you heard the term "hiddur mitzvah"? It means Beautify or Enhance the Mitzvah - we should go above and beyond as we seek to fulfill a commandment of G-d. That is why we have such gorgeous objects in our synagogues and homes that we use to fulfill G-d's commandments surrounding our observance. The sages' … Continue reading Hiddur Mitzvah
Winner of the Persian Bachelor?
Many modern day purim spiels present the story of Esther as an ancient Persian version of the TV show “The Bachelor” where scores of women compete to win a marriage proposal from an eligible, handsome, young bachelor – going on scads of fancy dates and romantic excursions while he presents roses to the contests as … Continue reading Winner of the Persian Bachelor?
For Such A (Long) Time As This by Roni Bernstein
The book of Ester is a small book, a mere ten chapters. Most of us can relate the main events by heart. We imagine ourselves as Queen Ester, convinced we share her courage and faith. Do we? In our fast food immediate gratification mindset, we can quickly lose our resolve. We get anxious when we … Continue reading For Such A (Long) Time As This by Roni Bernstein
The Least of These
Last week, a friend posted the link to an interview with Rachel Denhollander, the first to come forward with her story of abuse by Larry Nassar, the USA Gymnastics team doctor convicted of seven counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct who was sentenced just recently. Her interview sheds light on a problem that plagues the … Continue reading The Least of These
Why Read the Bible by Jennifer Nesbitt
New year, new Bible reading plan. I have just one question for you: Why? Why read the Bible at all? Why read the whole Bible every year? Why? Paul writes in Romans 15:4 “For whatever was written before was written for our instruction, so that through patience and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might … Continue reading Why Read the Bible by Jennifer Nesbitt
