The Holiness of Broken Tablets (Ki Tissa)
Holiness. We often think of holiness as the pinnacle of our achievements, such as when we are at our best, our most thoughtful, our most…
Daniel’s Bar Mitzvah Video … Too Much? Not Enough? (Shabbat Zachor)
If you have not already, please first watch the video above. … Earlier today, I sent my congregation a link to a video on YouTube….
You. Are. Talented. (T’rumah)
I have always loved talent shows. A few years ago in Omaha we decided to do a coffee-house talent show after a Havdalah service. I…
Which Hand Will You Pick? (Mishpatim)
All of us follow rules. One person speaks at a time. Raise your hand before you speak. Don’t hit other people. And, most of us,…
Take a Step Back: Moses, God and Tzimtzum (Yitro)
We have Shabbat for many reasons. First, and perhaps foremost, it is commanded to us. Not only that, it’s commanded to us in this very…
Every Tradition Begins with a New Idea (Open House Shabbat)
A synagogue is going through a process of strategic planning, visioning for the future. The temple’s leadership decides to talk to people about why they…
Two Jews three opinions … Why do we argue? (Vayishlach)
Jews often self effacingly quip about our penchant for arguing, for fighting … whining. It’s almost like a badge of honor: Two Jews, three opinions….
Put Gratitude in that Attitude (Thanksgiving)
Two nights ago, it was getting late and I was complaining about something or other (shocking). My wonderful girlfriend said that before I to sleep,…
Is it Two People or a Cup of Wine? The Answer is Torah. (Toldot)
I love optical illusions. As a child, I would beg my parents to buy me the latest book filled with visible oddities and conundrums. This…
They’re just words? (Matot)
The g’vurot is the second prayer of the Amidah. In it, we praise God’s limitless power. The traditional prayer tells us that God is so…