Rabbi Menachem Creditor: July 2024

In the face of instability in the world, both in Israel and for the Jewish people globally, we hold onto Torah. This week's portion, Balak, features the mercenary prophet Balaam, who is hired to curse the Israelites. Yet, when he stands overlooking our people, he is compelled to bless us instead, saying, "How beautiful are your tents, Jacob, your dwelling places, Israel" (Numbers 24:5). This verse, traditionally recited upon entering a synagogue, reminds us to see the beauty of Jewish community, Jewish resilience, and Jewish spirit.

This is a reflection of who we are at our core. Despite unceasing adversity, we build homes with dignity and care, with respect and love. 30 years after the terrorist bombing of AMIA (Argentina's Jewish Community Center), the beauty of Jewish community is seen in our determination to live, love, and support one another. This resilience was epitomized yet again this week by the dedication of a new Torah by Jonathan and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Hersh's loving parents, in a moving communal ceremony of faith and global Jewish unity and perseverance for the merit of the return of every hostage. We all, as their extended family, held onto Torah - and each other.

We live in a world that often feels unstable, but our spirits are unbroken. We are a people who choose life, who find joy in the midst of sorrow, and who support one another fiercely. Our traditions and community provide us with strength and resilience.

We are truly beautiful. Am Yisrael Chai!

Shabbat Shalom.

There aren't words to describe the sanctification of God's Holy Name these children poured forth, under the guidance of my visionary friend Micah Hendler, founder of The Jerusalem Youth Chorus. Last night's rendition of Home on America's Got Talent, pierced every heart. With #BringThemHomeNow earrings and necklaces and souls that contain all of humanity, these beautiful young people offered hope and love on one of the world's biggest stages. May we be open and wise enough to let this in. Please watch this. Please share with others. We need this so very badly.

for the JTA News story about their performance: https://www.jta.org/2024/07/17/culture/jerusalem-youth-chorus-advances-on-americas-got-talent-with-performance-of-home

Bless you, JYC! #OlamChesedYibaneh