V'Zot HaBerachah - Reading #2

V'Zot HaBerachah וְזֹאת הַבְּרָכָה - And this is the blessing

Torah Portion: Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 33:8–12

My Thoughts:

For the blessing of Levi, Moses comments that they have observed and kept the Law, and they have taught it to their children. This is really what it is all about, isn’t it? After studying the Torah every day for a year, we find this central message and blessing given to the tribe of Levi. If these things are done, then life is whole and easier. There will be peace and the presence of Elohim. There will not be strife or division. We would be wise to heed these powerful words.

Challenge:

I love the blessing of Benjamin, verse 12, “The beloved of Hashem will dwell in safety by Him. He covers him all day long. He dwells between his shoulders.” I want to dwell next to Hashem, be covered by Him, and have Him between my shoulders. What a magnificent picture of someone who loves you. My challenge to you today is to take a moment to reflect on what this means. To make sure you are living your life in fullness and truth, and in obedience, so that you will be so near to Hashem. It truly is a picture of shalom peace, and that is only obtainable through Hashem.

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 33:8–12

8 About Levi he said,

“Your Thummim and your Urim are with your godly one,

    whom you proved at Massah,

    with whom you contended at the waters of Meribah.

9 He said of his father, and of his mother, ‘I have not seen him.’

    He didn’t acknowledge his brothers,

    nor did he know his own children;

for they have observed Your word,

    and keep Your covenant.

10 They shall teach Jacob your ordinances,

    and Israel your law.

They shall put incense before You,

    and whole burnt offering on Your altar.

11 Hashem, bless his skills.

    Accept the work of his hands.

Strike through the hips of those who rise up against him,

    of those who hate him, that they not rise again.”

12 About Benjamin he said,

“The beloved of Hashem will dwell in safety by him.

    He covers him all day long.

    He dwells between his shoulders.”

Ha'Azinu - Reading #2

Ha'Azinu הַאֲזִינוּ - Listen!

Torah Portion: Deuteronomy 32:1-32:52

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 32:7–12

My Thoughts:

At the beginning of today’s reading, we see how Hashem has set apart His chosen people. In verse 8, we read,  “When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when He separated the children of men, He set the bounds of the peoples according to the number of the children of Israel.” Hashem chose a people, from the seed of Abraham, to represent Him and be a light to the world. By doing this, He also gave them a land to live in and laws to live by. There is a specific reason for this. Because the rest of the world needs to know Hashem! Picture a successful business where customers eagerly purchase its products. They market their product. I believe that Hashem was marketing Himself and His love for mankind by choosing a group of people who would represent Him and all that He does. He chose the Israelites, the Hebrews, to literally be His light to the nations. All for the purpose that people all over the world (His creation) would be drawn to Him. I want to join His people and His land, just like Ruth did. I like to pray this prayer, “Israel, wherever you go, I will go. Your people are my people. And your Elohim is my Elohim.”  

Today's Challenge:

Verse 10 says Hashem “...kept them as an apple of His eye”. We know that this phrase “apple of his eye” means you are critical and special to that person. And that is precisely what this song is saying. The Israelites, the Hebrew people, are very special to Hashem. My challenge to you today is to think about who is the “apple of your eye”? Who is special to you (besides Hashem)? Are you kind and generous to them? Do you have more than one “apple” relationship? If you don’t have an “apple,” pray and ask Hashem to give you one. Or maybe you do have one and don’t realize it — like your parents, a niece or nephew, or a neighbor? Find your “apple” today and praise Hashem for him/her.

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 32:7–12

32:7 Remember the days of old.

    Consider the years of many generations.

Ask your father, and he will show you.

    your elders, and they will tell you.

8 When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance,

    when He separated the children of men,

He set the bounds of the peoples

    according to the number of the children of Israel.

9 For Hashem’s portion is His people.

    Jacob is the lot of his inheritance.

10 He found him in a desert land,

    in the waste howling wilderness.

He surrounded him.

    He cared for him.

    He kept him as the apple of His eye.

11 As an eagle that stirs up her nest,

    that flutters over her young,

He spread abroad His wings,

    He took them,

    He bore them on his feathers.

12 Hashem alone led him.

    There was no foreign god with him.

Vayelech - Reading #2

Vayelech וַיֵּלֶךְ - And He Went

Deuteronomy 31:1-31:30

Shanah Tovah U'Metukah! A good and sweet new year!

Rosh Hashanah Monday Evening September 22 - Wednesday September 24

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 31:4–6

My Thoughts:

Verse 5, “Hashem will deliver them up before you…”. Not only does Hashem protect you and pave the way for you, He also will deliver your enemy to you. What does that look like? Maybe it means He will defeat them, or He will prepare for them to be defeated by you. Either way, He is in it. It is a sure thing. As long as we are following Him and His Torah. By the way, the defeat may not look like what you thought it would. It may be compromising or meeting someone halfway. That may be how you win the battle you are in. It is important to be open to alternative solutions, other than demolishing them. Remember, we are to love Hashem and love others. That includes our enemies.

Challenge:

It’s really, really important to remember when Hashem calls us to do something, either big or small, that we don’t forget He won’t fail or forsake us (verse 6). It may feel like He isn’t helping, but we can’t see the unseen. We can’t see what He is doing behind the scenes. Sometimes it may seem like we are working alone, but recalling this necessary Scripture reminds us that He never fails or forsakes us. The challenge today is to look at your life and think about what is going on that you are really requesting His help. Then pray, worship, and ask Him to be there to direct you and to assist you. You want His leading and His path, not yours. Be strong and courageous. Take G-dly risks and walk in obedience. Take some time to thank Hashem for delivering you from the enemy and for His protection. Amen.

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 31:4–6

31:4 Hashem will do to them as He did to Sihon and to Og, the kings of the Amorites, and to their land, when He destroyed them. 5 Hashem will deliver them up before you, and you shall do to them according to all the commandment which I have commanded you. 6 Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them; for Hashem your Elohim Himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”

Nitzavim - Reading #2

Nitzavim נִצָּבִים - Standing (Witnessing)

Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 29:12–14

My Thoughts:

In verse 12, we read, “...that you may enter into the covenant of Hashem your Elohim.” We have talked about this before, but think about “covenant”. A covenant is a binding agreement made by both parties. Sometimes it would be “sealed” with blood, food, or gifts. That is the covenant Hashem was making with His people as they were about to enter into the Land of Israel. What a beautiful picture of His love and care. Remember, there were godless people already living in His land. They were to go in peacefully; if not received, they had to fight and take it over. This was a huge task ahead of them. To be in covenant with Hashem before embarking on a significant endeavor, you may want to ask Him to join you. To be in covenant. It will make things right and good. It will make things the BEST. Amen.

Challenge:

Verse 13 reads,  “that He may be your Elohim…”. It is essential to Hashem that we make Him our one and only Elohim. There is no other. It is time we set aside other “gods” in our lives and recognize Him as the ultimate and only Elohim. That’s my challenge to you today. It’s simple. Focus on Him, serve only Him, praise only Him. Make Him your Elohim. In all you do today, consciously make sure you are only loving and serving Hashem. Amen.

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 29:12–14

29:12 “...that you may enter into the covenant of Hashem your Elohim, and into his oath, which Hashem your Elohim makes with you today, 13 that He may establish you today as His people, and that He may be your Elohim, as He spoke to you and as He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. 14 Neither do I make this covenant and this oath with you only…".

Ki Tavo - Reading #2

Ki Tavo כִּי-תָבוֹא - When You Enter In

Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 26:12–15

My Thoughts:

Today is about giving to the Levite, the fatherless, and the widow. This is so important to Hashem. Yes, we do not have a Temple, so we can not bring our tithe to support this. But we can still help others. Look around you today and see who Hashem has put in your life that needs support. Is it your pastor or rabbi? Is it someone in your family who has not been able to make ends meet? Is it someone at the grocery store? I love it when people “pay it forward”. That has happened to me at McDonald's. I was in the drive-through, and the car ahead paid for my meal. I couldn’t thank them in person (they had already driven away), but I can tell you this -- it totally blessed my day! Take careful notice of what is going on around you. Then take action when needed. This blesses Hashem and will ultimately bless you.

Challenge:

Verse 15 says, “Look down from your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless your people Israel...”. I was thinking today that Hashem does have a “Holy habitation in heaven”. Many Bible verses describe the true Holy Temple being in heaven. It seems this would be the place where His emanation would go forth to the universes and eternity. Can you even imagine what this looks like? I challenge you today to pray and study about the Holy Temple in heaven. Some believe this Temple will descend to the earth in the Olam Haba, and this is where His glory will shine for all to see. I think this Temple and His Holy Presence will be presented to everyone who believes in Him -- for eternity. And what a glorious time that will be! Amen?

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 26:12–15

26:12 When you have finished tithing all the tithe of your increase in the third year, which is the year of tithing, then you shall give it to the Levite, to the foreigner, to the fatherless, and to the widow, that they may eat within your gates and be filled. 13 You shall say before Hashem your Elohim, “I have put away the holy things out of my house, and also have given them to the Levite, to the foreigner, to the fatherless, and to the widow, according to all your commandment which you have commanded me. I have not transgressed any of your commandments, neither have I forgotten them. 14 I have not eaten of it in my mourning, neither have I removed any of it while I was unclean, nor given of it for the dead. I have listened to Hashem my Elohim’s voice. I have done according to all that you have commanded me. 15 Look down from your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless your people Israel, and the ground which you have given us, as you swore to our fathers, a land flowing with milk and honey.”

Ki Teitzei - Reading #2

Ki Teitzei כִּי-תֵצֵא - When You Go Out
Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 21:22–22:7

My Thoughts:

So, here is a sensitive subject. Sexual identification is a huge issue in today’s world. A few years ago our Miss USA was a transgender female. What does Hashem think about all of this? In verse 5 we read, “A woman shall not wear men’s clothing, neither shall a man put on women’s clothing; for whoever does these things is an abomination to Hashem your Elohim.” Some commands are very clear and this is one of them. There is no debate or discussion. Hashem says not to cross dress. It is an abomination to Him. If we want to please Hashem, then we obey Him. And this is in all areas of our life. Some sins are outward like this one. And some sins are hidden. But, let us be clear. Nothing, absolutely nothing, is hidden from Hashem. He sees it all. The best part is if we ask for forgiveness, He forgives. Remember that. Amen.

Challenge:

Sometimes when I pray I worry that what I am asking Hashem for is too small. Then I read today’s verse 22:6, “If you come across a bird’s nest on the way, in any tree or on the ground, with young ones or eggs, and the hen sitting on the young, or on the eggs, you shall not take the hen with the young.” This is compassion, even for the least. Not to take eggs or young when the mother bird is in sight. You spare her. Not only is this kind, but it also makes sense for future eggs. If you kill both the mother and eat her eggs, there will be no more eggs in the future! This is compassion and sensibility. Your challenge today is to go through the day and see if there are some times where you can exhibit compassion, even for the smallest thing. Or if you can practice some sensibility instead of selfishness. What a better world we have when we exercise these things! Amen.

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 21:22–22:7

22 If a man has committed a sin worthy of death, and he is put to death, and you hang him on a tree, 23 his body shall not remain all night on the tree, but you shall surely bury him the same day; for he who is hanged is accursed of Elohim. Don’t defile your land which Hashem your Elohim gives you for an inheritance.

22 You shall not see your brother’s ox or his sheep go astray and hide yourself from them. You shall surely bring them again to your brother. 2 If your brother isn’t near to you, or if you don’t know him, then you shall bring it home to your house, and it shall be with you until your brother comes looking for it, and you shall restore it to him. 3 So you shall do with his donkey. So you shall do with his garment. So you shall do with every lost thing of your brother’s, which he has lost and you have found. You may not hide yourself. 4 You shall not see your brother’s donkey or his ox fallen down by the way, and hide yourself from them. You shall surely help him to lift them up again.

5 A woman shall not wear men’s clothing, neither shall a man put on women’s clothing; for whoever does these things is an abomination to Hashem your Elohim.

6 If you come across a bird’s nest on the way, in any tree or on the ground, with young ones or eggs, and the hen sitting on the young, or on the eggs, you shall not take the hen with the young. 7 You shall surely let the hen go, but the young you may take for yourself, that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days.

Shoftim - Reading #2

Shoftim שֹׁפְטִים - Judges

Deuteronomy 16:18-21:

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 17:14–20

My Thoughts:

Hashem knew Israel would want a human king over their land. So, Hashem gives them the instructions for doing so. Particularly that the king would not be able to send them back to Egypt. That’s a promise. And that is the same Hashem we serve today. He has delivered us from a past of hurt and sin (our Egypt) and He does not want anyone taking us back there. There is only one requirement from Him that we acknowledge and that is to fear Him and follow His Torah. This message is repeated all throughout Torah. That is how important it is. 

Challenge: 

The king is required to read the Torah all the days of his life. He is even challenged to copy it! Here is a different kind of challenge for you today. As we approach a new Torah cycle in a few weeks, buy yourself a little notebook. Then every day, record something out of the Torah portion daily reading. Pick out something that really strikes you as important. Copy the Torah. Maybe not the whole thing, but let’s start with a verse or two every day. It seems like this would really bless us beyond belief! Get ready and get prepared to do this in the new Torah reading year. It will happen right after Sukkot. Let us choose to bless Hashem with writing down His Torah, and in return we will be blessed. Amen!

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 17:14–20

17:14 When you have come to the land which Hashem your Elohim gives you, and possess it and dwell in it, and say, “I will set a king over me, like all the nations that are around me,” 15 you shall surely set him whom Hashem your Elohim chooses as king over yourselves. You shall set as king over you one from among your brothers. You may not put a foreigner over you, who is not your brother. 16 Only he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he may multiply horses; because Hashem has said to you, “You shall not go back that way again.” 17 He shall not multiply wives to himself, that his heart not turn away. He shall not greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.

18 It shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write himself a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the Levitical priests. 19 It shall be with him, and he shall read from it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear Hashem his Elohim to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them; 20 that his heart not be lifted up above his brothers, and that he not turn away from the commandment to the right hand, or to the left, to the end that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he and his children, in the middle of Israel.

Re'eh - Reading #2

Re'eh רְאֵה - See!

Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 12:11–28

My Thoughts:

Verse 28 concerns our children, “Observe and hear all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and with your children after you forever, when you do that which is good and right in Hashem your Elohim’s eyes.” What a wonderful promise. If we follow His Torah, He will take good care of us and our children! But we have to do what is good and right. I want my kids and grand kids to be blessed. Don’t you? So, not only do we learn from following Torah what is right and good, but we get this super blessing for following it. That is such a great thing. What a faithful Hashem we serve! He is FULL of blessings for us! Todah Hashem (Thank you L-rd)! Amen!

Challenge:

In verse 18 we read, “You shall rejoice before Hashem your Elohim in all that you put your hand to.” Isn’t that so cool? So, everything we do we should be praising Hashem while we are doing it. We are in the process of moving out of our home into an apartment, a temporary location until our new house is ready. I have seen His Hand all over the selling of our home and buying a new one, and even this apartment! I keep thanking Him. I will say “Todah Hashem” -- thank you L-rd. I feel like He is in it all. Little and big miracles have occurred and I give Him all the glory! Your challenge today is to do the same. Look for how Hashem is moving in your day, in all that you do -- and thank Him. And rejoice!!!

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 12:11–28

12:11 then it shall happen that to the place which Hashem your Elohim shall choose, to cause His name to dwell there, there you shall bring all that I command you: your burnt offerings, your sacrifices, your tithes, the wave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which you vow to Hashem. 12 You shall rejoice before Hashem your Elohim—you, and your sons, your daughters, your male servants, your female servants, and the Levite who is within your gates, because he has no portion nor inheritance with you. 13 Be careful that you don’t offer your burnt offerings in every place that you see; 14 but in the place which Hashem chooses in one of your tribes, there you shall offer your burnt offerings, and there you shall do all that I command you.

15 Yet you may kill and eat meat within all your gates, after all the desire of your soul, according to Hashem your Elohim’s blessing which He has given you. The unclean and the clean may eat of it, as of the gazelle and the deer. 16 Only you shall not eat the blood. You shall pour it out on the earth like water. 17 You may not eat within your gates the tithe of your grain, or of your new wine, or of your oil, or the firstborn of your herd or of your flock, nor any of your vows which you vow, nor your free will offerings, nor the wave offering of your hand; 18 but you shall eat them before Hashem your Elohim in the place which Hashem your Elohim shall choose: you, your son, your daughter, your male servant, your female servant, and the Levite who is within your gates. You shall rejoice before Hashem your Elohim in all that you put your hand to. 19 Be careful that you don’t forsake the Levite as long as you live in your land.

20 When Hashem your Elohim enlarges your border, as he has promised you, and you say, “I want to eat meat,” because your soul desires to eat meat, you may eat meat, after all the desire of your soul. 21 If the place which Hashem your Elohim shall choose to put His name is too far from you, then you shall kill of your herd and of your flock, which Hashem has given you, as I have commanded you; and you may eat within your gates, after all the desire of your soul. 22 Even as the gazelle and as the deer is eaten, so you shall eat of it. The unclean and the clean may eat of it alike. 23 Only be sure that you don’t eat the blood; for the blood is the life. You shall not eat the life with the meat. 24 You shall not eat it. You shall pour it out on the earth like water. 25 You shall not eat it, that it may go well with you and with your children after you, when you do that which is right in Hashem’s eyes. 26 Only your holy things which you have, and your vows, you shall take and go to the place which Hashem shall choose. 27 You shall offer your burnt offerings, the meat and the blood, on Hashem your Elohim’s altar. The blood of your sacrifices shall be poured out on Hashem your Elohim’s altar, and you shall eat the meat. 28 Observe and hear all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and with your children after you forever, when you do that which is good and right in Hashem your Elohim’s eyes.

Ekev - Reading #2

Ekev עֵקֶב - As a Result
Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 8:11–9:3

My Thoughts:

He goes before us. What need have we to worry about? Only there is a “but” in there. But, you have to keep His commandments, ordinances and statutes. This theme is continuous throughout the book of Deuteronomy. It’s simple -- obey and be blessed, disobey and suffer punishment. Look what 9:3 says, “Know therefore today that Hashem your Elohim is He who goes over before you as a devouring fire.” Not only will He protect you, but He will “devour” anything in His way. There is no greater protection in all the universe, but this. Do you want Hashem to go before you in all you do? I do. The answer. Pray and obey.

Challenge:

Wow this portion starts out with a pretty heavy duty “warning”. In verse 11 we read, ”Beware lest you forget Hashem your Elohim…”. And it goes on to say that when things are going really well -- you have all the food, housing, jobs -- everything you need, then you might forget Hashem. Is that possible. You know it is. I think of the times when things are going really well and I might not spend so much time in prayer as I do when they are not. These are the times we are to praise Him and worship Him and spend time praying for others who are in need. That’s your challenge today. If you are in a good spot and have most everything you have, take some time to praise Hashem. Tell Him how much you love Him and adore Him. And thank Him for all He has provided for you. Thank you Hashem!

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 8:11–9:3

8:11 Beware lest you forget Hashem your Elohim, in not keeping His commandments, His ordinances, and His statutes, which I command you today; 12 lest, when you have eaten and are full, and have built fine houses and lived in them; 13 and when your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and your gold is multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied; 14 then your heart might be lifted up, and you forget Hashem your Elohim, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; 15 who led you through the great and terrible wilderness, with venomous snakes and scorpions, and thirsty ground where there was no water; who poured water for you out of the rock of flint; 16 who fed you in the wilderness with manna, which your fathers didn’t know, that He might humble you, and that He might prove you, to do you good at your latter end; 17 and lest you say in your heart, “My power and the might of my hand has gotten me this wealth.” 18 But you shall remember Hashem your Elohim, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is today.

19 It shall be, if you shall forget Hashem your Elohim, and walk after other gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you today that you shall surely perish. 20 As the nations that Hashem makes to perish before you, so you shall perish, because you wouldn’t listen to Hashem your Elohim’s voice.

9:1 Hear, Israel! You are to pass over the Jordan today, to go in to dispossess nations greater and mightier than yourself, cities great and fortified up to the sky, 2 a people great and tall, the sons of the Anakim, whom you know, and of whom you have heard say, “Who can stand before the sons of Anak?” 3 Know therefore today that Hashem your Elohim is He who goes over before you as a devouring fire. He will destroy them and He will bring them down before you. So you shall drive them out and make them perish quickly, as Hashem has spoken to you.

Va'etchanan - Reading #2

Va'etchanan וָאֶתְחַנַּן - Pleaded
Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 4:5–40

My Thoughts:

Verse 8 is compelling, “What great nation is there that has statutes and ordinances so righteous as all this law which I set before you today?” And it is so true. What group of people on this planet have such righteous laws as Israel? We should acknowledge and thank Hashem that we are able to connect and unite with Israel and the Torah. It makes us a people who are set apart and worship the one true Elohim. There is only one true Elohim. The Elohim of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And He has created unique and wonderful statutes and ordinances. We praise Adonai for this.

Challenge:

Who or what are we looking for? Verse 39 says it all, “Know therefore today, and take it to heart, that Hashem himself is Elohim in heaven above and on the earth beneath. There is no one else.” He is the One. And He is G-d of heaven and earth. Think of that. He is the one and only G-d of the planet earth. He created and owns the earth. And if we really believe that we need to be taking better care of what He has entrusted us with. That is my challenge to you today. Make sure your house is “in order”. And see if there is anything you can do for your community. Both your religious community and the physical community you live in. If you see a piece of paper or garbage on the ground -- pick it up! Let’s start with what Hashem has given us and take care of it. This will affect the rest of the world for sure!

Reading #2 : Deuteronomy 4:5–40

4:5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and ordinances, even as Hashem our Elohim commanded me, that you should do so in the middle of the land where you go in to possess it. 6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who shall hear all these statutes and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” 7 For what great nation is there that has a god so near to them as Hashem our Elohim is whenever we call on him? 8 What great nation is there that has statutes and ordinances so righteous as all this law which I set before you today?

9 Only be careful, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things which your eyes saw, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your children and your children’s children— 10 the day that you stood before Hashem your Elohim in Horeb, when Hashem said to me, “Assemble the people to me, and I will make them hear My words, that they may learn to fear Me all the days that they live on the earth, and that they may teach their children.” 11 You came near and stood under the mountain. The mountain burned with fire to the heart of the sky, with darkness, cloud, and thick darkness. 12 Hashem spoke to you out of the middle of the fire: you heard the voice of words, but you saw no form; you only heard a voice. 13 He declared to you His covenant, which He commanded you to perform, even the ten commandments. He wrote them on two stone tablets. 14 Hashem commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and ordinances, that you might do them in the land where you go over to possess it. 15 Be very careful, for you saw no kind of form on the day that Hashem spoke to you in Horeb out of the middle of the fire, 16 lest you corrupt yourselves, and make yourself a carved image in the form of any figure, the likeness of male or female, 17 the likeness of any animal that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged bird that flies in the sky, 18 the likeness of anything that creeps on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the water under the earth; 19 and lest you lift up your eyes to the sky, and when you see the sun and the moon and the stars, even all the army of the sky, you are drawn away and worship them, and serve them, which Hashem your Elohiim has allotted to all the peoples under the whole sky. 20 But Hashem has taken you, and brought you out of the iron furnace, out of Egypt, to be to him a people of inheritance, as it is today. 21 Furthermore Hashem was angry with me for your sakes, and swore that I should not go over the Jordan, and that I should not go in to that good land which Hashem your Elohim gives you for an inheritance; 22 but I must die in this land. I must not go over the Jordan, but you shall go over and possess that good land. 23 Be careful, lest you forget the covenant of Hashem your Elohim, which he made with you, and make yourselves a carved image in the form of anything which Hashem your Elohim has forbidden you. 24 For Hashem your Elohim is a devouring fire, a jealous G-d. 25 When you father children and children’s children, and you have been long in the land, and then corrupt yourselves, and make a carved image in the form of anything, and do that which is evil in Hashem your Elohim’s sight to provoke him to anger, 26 I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that you will soon utterly perish from off the land which you go over the Jordan to possess it. You will not prolong your days on it, but will utterly be destroyed. 27 Hashem will scatter you among the peoples, and you will be left few in number among the nations where Hashem will lead you away. 28 There you will serve gods, the work of men’s hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell. 29 But from there you shall seek Hashem your Elohim, and you will find Him when you search after Him with all your heart and with all your soul. 30 When you are in oppression, and all these things have come on you, in the latter days you shall return to Hashem your Elohim and listen to His voice. 31 For Hashem your Elohim is a merciful Elohim. He will not fail you nor destroy you, nor forget the covenant of your fathers which He swore to them. 32 For ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that Elohim created man on the earth, and from the one end of the sky to the other, whether there has been anything as great as this thing is, or has been heard like it? 33 Did a people ever hear the voice of Elohim speaking out of the middle of the fire, as you have heard, and live? 34 Or has Elohim tried to go and take a nation for himself from among another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, by war, by a mighty hand, by an outstretched arm, and by great terrors, according to all that Hashem your Elohim did for you in Egypt before your eyes? 35 It was shown to you so that you might know that Hashem is Elohim . There is no one else besides Him. 36 Out of heaven He made you to hear His voice, that He might instruct you. On earth He made you to see His great fire; and you heard His words out of the middle of the fire. 37 Because He loved your fathers, therefore He chose their offspring after them, and brought you out with His presence, with His great power, out of Egypt; 38 to drive out nations from before you greater and mightier than you, to bring you in, to give you their land for an inheritance, as it is today. 39 Know therefore today, and take it to heart, that Hashem Himself is Elohim in heaven above and on the earth beneath. There is no one else. 40 You shall keep His statutes and His commandments which I command you today, that it may go well with you and with your children after you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which Hashem your Elohim gives you for all time.

Devarim - Reading #2

Devarim דְּבָרִים - Words

Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 1:11–21

My Thoughts:

Moses delegated. He didn’t try to be some sort of dictator, instead I believe, He worked with a team. He picked leaders, who in turn picked leaders under them. They each worked with a portion of people so that it would never be overwhelming. The workload was shared. This was good for Moses, the leaders and the people. And it is how we should do things now. If you are in leadership I recommend that you start delegating. To not do so, could burn you out. And not only that but working as a team with others will expand your ministry/business and grow it. Other people can bring new ideas and fresh insight. This is how Moses did it, and it would be good for you to do it this way too! Amen.

Challenge:

In verse 21 we read, “Behold, Hashem our Elohim has set the land before you. Go up, take possession, as Hashem our Elohim of your fathers has spoken to you. Don’t be afraid, neither be dismayed.” When Hashem calls you to do something or go somewhere, you must believe He will equip you properly and will “accompany” you. If you place your trust in Him you do not have to fear or worry.  So, if you feel like Hashem is directing your path in a certain direction, have faith and go. Don’t be afraid or dismayed -- He is right there with you. If you allow this to happen, you will be so amazed and happy. It is so much better to include and follow Hashem in all you do. Renew this commitment to do so -- today! Amen.

Reading #2 - Deuteronomy 1:11–21

11 Hashem, the Elohim of your fathers, make you a thousand times as many as you are and bless you, as He has promised you! 12 How can I myself alone bear your problems, your burdens, and your strife? 13 Take wise men of understanding who are respected among your tribes, and I will make them heads over you.”

14 You answered me, and said, “The thing which you have spoken is good to do.” 15 So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and respected men, and made them heads over you, captains of thousands, captains of hundreds, captains of fifties, captains of tens, and officers, according to your tribes. 16 I commanded your judges at that time, saying, “Hear cases between your brothers and judge righteously between a man and his brother, and the foreigner who is living with him. 17 You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be afraid of the face of man, for the judgment is Adonai’s. The case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.” 18 I commanded you at that time all the things which you should do. 19 We traveled from Horeb and went through all that great and terrible wilderness which you saw, by the way to the hill country of the Amorites, as Hashem our Elohim commanded us; and we came to Kadesh Barnea. 20 I said to you, “You have come to the hill country of the Amorites, which Hashem our Elohim gives to us. 21 Behold, Hashem our Elohim has set the land before you. Go up, take possession, as Hashem our Elohim of your fathers has spoken to you. Don’t be afraid, neither be dismayed.”

Mattot/Massei - Reading #2

MATTOT/MASSEI

Torah Reading: Numbers 30:2-36:13

Reading #2 - Numbers 31:13-54 

My Thoughts:

Today we learn about dividing the plunder (even though war is so difficult to comprehend). What is so fair and just is that Hashem provides for the Levites, who did not go out to war. He takes care of everything for all His people. That is important to remember today. He is providing for us and does provide for us every day. All we need is to trust in Him. 

Challenge:

It’s hard for us to understand war, as we have discussed before. This particular war is with the people who swayed the Israelites to sin with the prostitutes. This is the reason they go to war with the Midianites. We can only imagine how upset Hashem is with us when we sin in any area in our lives. He may not impose a “plague” on us, but He does allow us to suffer consequences. I can think of these times in my life and they are not fun. My challenge today is once again to review your life and “fix” your areas of sin. We want to be close to Hashem and not be separated by sin. 

*** None of us like war or understand it. But, it occurred to me that this must really be difficult on the Father, Adonai. He created and loves His creation how devastating it must be when when they die in war or disease (even if He has ordered to do this). We know He experiences loss and grief, He is all-knowing an all-feeling. He is everything. Don't think for a minute that Hashem does not have a reaction to all of this, He does. But, He also knows what is best for everyone. And He has instituted consequences for sin. I encourage you to think about all this the next time you want to "judge" G-d in your own mind for these wars that He calls into action. His reasons and purposes way surpass any understanding we might have. That is why we must learn to trust what He has done, what He is doing and what He will do.

Reading #2 - Numbers 31:13-54 

13 Moses and Eleazar the priest, with all the princes of the congregation, went out to meet them outside of the camp. 14 Moses was angry with the officers of the army, the captains of thousands and the captains of hundreds, who came from the service of the war. 15 Moses said to them, “Have you saved all the women alive? 16 Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against Hashem in the matter of Peor, and so the plague was among the congregation of Hashem. 17 Now therefore kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him. 18 But all the girls, who have not known man by lying with him, keep alive for yourselves.

19 “Encamp outside of the camp for seven days. Whoever has killed any person, and whoever has touched any slain, purify yourselves on the third day and on the seventh day, you and your captives. 20 You shall purify every garment, and all that is made of skin, and all work of goats’ hair, and all things made of wood.”

21 Eleazar the priest said to the men of war who went to the battle, “This is the statute of the law which Hashem has commanded Moses. 22 However the gold, and the silver, the bronze, the iron, the tin, and the lead, 23 everything that may withstand the fire, you shall make to go through the fire, and it shall be clean; nevertheless it shall be purified with the water for impurity. All that doesn’t withstand the fire you shall make to go through the water. 24 You shall wash your clothes on the seventh day, and you shall be clean. Afterward you shall come into the camp.”

25 Hashem spoke to Moses, saying, 26 “Count the plunder that was taken, both of man and of animal, you, and Eleazar the priest, and the heads of the fathers’ households of the congregation; 27 and divide the plunder into two parts: between the men skilled in war, who went out to battle, and all the congregation. 28 Levy a tribute to Hashem of the men of war who went out to battle: one soul of five hundred; of the persons, of the cattle, of the donkeys, and of the flocks. 29 Take it from their half, and give it to Eleazar the priest, for Hashem’s wave offering. 30 Of the children of Israel’s half, you shall take one drawn out of every fifty, of the persons, of the cattle, of the donkeys, and of the flocks, of all the livestock, and give them to the Levites, who perform the duty of Hashem’s tabernacle.”

Pinchas - Reading #2

Pinchas פִּינְחָס - Phinehas

Numbers 25:10-30:1

Reading #2 - Numbers 26:5–51

My Thoughts:

Hashem is asking Moses to take a census of the men over 20 that would be willing and ready to go to war. It must be that Hashem is anticipating that war is evident in the near future. It would be like our government in the US calling up men for the draft. It’s about preparing and getting ready. That is a strong characteristic of our Elohim. He prepares and gets ready. It is a lesson for all of us to learn. Maybe we are not going into any obvious “battle” but even getting up in the morning to meet the world each day -- we must prepare and get ready for what is to come. This includes prayer and worship of Hashem, and asking Him to be in the middle of it all. Amen.

Challenge:

This was no small group of men. Total count of those over 20 (and probably under 55) are over 600,000. So add in children, elderly and women. Some researchers say this huge number is impossible. Even using the latrine for this amount of people would seem impossible. But, we serve a powerful Elohim. One that does not lie. And if He wants Moses to record this number then it is certainly true. That’s why the whole story is such a great miracle. That so many people were sent to freedom and then journeyed together through the desert. No wonder Hashem gave such a powerful Torah of commandments! To keep order and for protection. My challenge for you today is to think about the Torah regarding your life. How does it bring order and protection to you and your family? Then take time to praise Adonai for giving it to us and preserving it! It truly does bring us eternal life!

Reading #2 -  Numbers 26:5–51

26:5 Reuben, the firstborn of Israel; the sons of Reuben: of Hanoch, the family of the Hanochites; of Pallu, the family of the Palluites; 6 of Hezron, the family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. 7 These are the families of the Reubenites; and those who were counted of them were forty-three thousand seven hundred thirty. 8 The son of Pallu: Eliab. 9 The sons of Eliab: Nemuel, Dathan, and Abiram. These are that Dathan and Abiram who were called by the congregation, who rebelled against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah when they rebelled against Hashem; 10 and the earth opened its mouth, and swallowed them up together with Korah when that company died; at the time the fire devoured two hundred fifty men, and they became a sign. 11 Notwithstanding, the sons of Korah didn’t die. 12 The sons of Simeon after their families: of Nemuel, the family of the Nemuelites; of Jamin, the family of the Jaminites; of Jachin, the family of the Jachinites; 13 of Zerah, the family of the Zerahites; of Shaul, the family of the Shaulites. 14 These are the families of the Simeonites, twenty-two thousand two hundred. 15 The sons of Gad after their families: of Zephon, the family of the Zephonites; of Haggi, the family of the Haggites; of Shuni, the family of the Shunites; 16 of Ozni, the family of the Oznites; of Eri, the family of the Erites; 17 of Arod, the family of the Arodites; of Areli, the family of the Arelites. 18 These are the families of the sons of Gad according to those who were counted of them, forty thousand and five hundred. 19 The sons of Judah: Er and Onan. Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan. 20 The sons of Judah after their families were: of Shelah, the family of the Shelanites; of Perez, the family of the Perezites; of Zerah, the family of the Zerahites. 21 The sons of Perez were: of Hezron, the family of the Hezronites; of Hamul, the family of the Hamulites. 22 These are the families of Judah according to those who were counted of them, seventy-six thousand five hundred. 23 The sons of Issachar after their families: of Tola, the family of the Tolaites; of Puvah, the family of the Punites; 24 of Jashub, the family of the Jashubites; of Shimron, the family of the Shimronites. 25 These are the families of Issachar according to those who were counted of them, sixty-four thousand three hundred. 26 The sons of Zebulun after their families: of Sered, the family of the Seredites; of Elon, the family of the Elonites; of Jahleel, the family of the Jahleelites. 27 These are the families of the Zebulunites according to those who were counted of them, sixty thousand five hundred. 28 The sons of Joseph after their families: Manasseh and Ephraim. 29 The sons of Manasseh: of Machir, the family of the Machirites; and Machir became the father of Gilead; of Gilead, the family of the Gileadites. 30 These are the sons of Gilead: of Iezer, the family of the Iezerites; of Helek, the family of the Helekites; 31 and Asriel, the family of the Asrielites; and Shechem, the family of the Shechemites; 32 and Shemida, the family of the Shemidaites; and Hepher, the family of the Hepherites. 33 Zelophehad the son of Hepher had no sons, but daughters: and the names of the daughters of Zelophehad were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. 34 These are the families of Manasseh. Those who were counted of them were fifty-two thousand seven hundred. 35 These are the sons of Ephraim after their families: of Shuthelah, the family of the Shuthelahites; of Becher, the family of the Becherites; of Tahan, the family of the Tahanites. 36 These are the sons of Shuthelah: of Eran, the family of the Eranites. 37 These are the families of the sons of Ephraim according to those who were counted of them, thirty-two thousand five hundred. These are the sons of Joseph after their families. 38 The sons of Benjamin after their families: of Bela, the family of the Belaites; of Ashbel, the family of the Ashbelites; of Ahiram, the family of the Ahiramites; 39 of Shephupham, the family of the Shuphamites; of Hupham, the family of the Huphamites. 40 The sons of Bela were Ard and Naaman: the family of the Ardites; and of Naaman, the family of the Naamites. 41 These are the sons of Benjamin after their families; and those who were counted of them were forty-five thousand six hundred. 42 These are the sons of Dan after their families: of Shuham, the family of the Shuhamites. These are the families of Dan after their families. 43 All the families of the Shuhamites, according to those who were counted of them, were sixty-four thousand four hundred. 44 The sons of Asher after their families: of Imnah, the family of the Imnites; of Ishvi, the family of the Ishvites; of Beriah, the family of the Berites. 45 Of the sons of Beriah: of Heber, the family of the Heberites; of Malchiel, the family of the Malchielites. 46 The name of the daughter of Asher was Serah. 47 These are the families of the sons of Asher according to those who were counted of them, fifty-three thousand four hundred. 48 The sons of Naphtali after their families: of Jahzeel, the family of the Jahzeelites; of Guni, the family of the Gunites; 49 of Jezer, the family of the Jezerites; of Shillem, the family of the Shillemites. 50 These are the families of Naphtali according to their families; and those who were counted of them were forty-five thousand four hundred. 51 These are those who were counted of the children of Israel, six hundred one thousand seven hundred thirty.

Balak - Reading #2

Balak בָּלָק - Balak

Numbers 22:2-25:9

Reading #2 - Numbers 22:13–20

My Thoughts:

Did Hashem change His mind? He told Balaam not to go. But, King Balak wants something different. So, he sends more princes and more gifts. Then Balaam tells them to wait overnight to see if Hashem is something else to say (verse 19). Haven’t you done the very same thing? Clearly Hashem is telling you not to do something but you come back to Him to reason, to ask Him to clarify His decision. We know that Hashem is full of mercy and grace, and just like a parent, maybe He wants to give us what we want -- beyond reason. And of course, a lesson will be learned when this happens. Just like Balaam. We will read on and see what happens. 

Challenge:

Balaam is “challenging” Hashem in a sense, when he decides to see if Hashem will have anything more to say. Clearly Hashem said not to go with these men. Not to curse Israel. But, Balaam “challenged” Him. The challenge today is for you to look at your life. What has Hashem clearly told you “no” on, and yet you wait for Him to change His mind? Listen to what He says and obey, even if you don’t like it! If not, you will suffer consequences. Amen.

Reading #2 - Numbers 22:13–20

22:13 Balaam rose up in the morning, and said to the princes of Balak, “Go to your land; for Hashem refuses to permit me to go with you.”

14 The princes of Moab rose up, and they went to Balak, and said, “Balaam refuses to come with us.”

15 Balak again sent princes, more, and more honorable than they. 16 They came to Balaam, and said to him, “Balak the son of Zippor says, ‘Please let nothing hinder you from coming to me, 17 for I will promote you to very great honor, and whatever you say to me I will do. Please come therefore, and curse this people for me.’”

18 Balaam answered the servants of Balak, “If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I can’t go beyond the word of Hashem my Elohim, to do less or more. 19 Now therefore please stay here tonight as well, that I may know what else Hashem will speak to me.”

20 Elohim came to Balaam at night, and said to him, “If the men have come to call you, rise up, go with them; but only the word which I speak to you, that you shall do.”