From the Desk of Rabbi Jacobs

My thanks to Congregation Beth Israel for its warm welcome to Colleyville and North Tarant County. Not just the weather, to be sure; the many who work so hard to give their community depth, vibrancy and meaning. Now, for the remainder of the year we will share on the community’s trek through the wilderness, our challenge will be to knit together, to heal and learn to rejoice despite past sadness.

By chance, as we read this coming Shabbat the portions Mattot and Masei, concluding the years of wandering in the Plains of Moab, we can relate to their restive energy that led to breaks in the sense of unity and purpose. Like the ancient Israelites, the congregational leadership is changing—Rabbi Cytron-Walker and Rabbi Sperling (thankfully) have both moved on to the next chapter of their lives. The remarkable, dedicated leadership—officers and Board of Directors—move through orderly transition in the weeks ahead. The congregation has a life of its own; may it be for blessing.

All of us share the responsibility of settling up in the virtual Plains of Moab. Let us make our tents there suitable for Balaam’s words of blessing. May we celebrate together and weekly at prayer recite those words:

מה טובו אוהלך יעקוב
משכנותיך ישראל

How goodly are your tents, O Jacob
Your dwelling places O Israel.
For the sake of individuals and community, let us build a tabernacle of peace where we welcome the nefesh y’teirah—the added spirit—and share in her blessing.