Thought of the Week: Rosh Hashannah - 5777

OPTIMISM IN JUDGMENT 

Rosh Hashannah, the "Day of Judgment”, has arrived!  We all recognize the fact that we have a great task and responsibility, during the coming days of the Aseret Yemei Teshuva - The Days of Repentance - to do our best in reconnecting to our source.  Yet we must do it with happiness and optimism.

The Midrash notes that when the nations of the world are judged, they wear black.  But the Jewish nation, when they stand in judgment before the Creator, they wear white, as a sign of faith and confidence that our Heavenly Father, in his abundant mercy, will bless us with a good year.

As we turn to the Almighty in prayer, it is important to be mindful of a few things.

First, Hashem desires our prayers.  Even if we feel inadequate - or perhaps especially because of that feeling- the Merciful one wants to hear our voices.

Second, Let us pray for the welfare of our people.  Communal prayer is more than just getting together for the service.  It is to be concerned for the other, and to Daven for their needs, as we  Daven for our own. During our prayers, all of us should have in mind the security of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael, and we should beseech Hashem to grant ample wisdom to its leaders. 

And last but not least; we should all celebrate our values and tradition with pride and confidence.  The blast of the Shofar is an act of coronation for the King of all Kings.  Let us be grateful for the privilege of being part of this ceremony.

Miriam, the children and I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Kehillah a Shana Tova.  May we all merit a year of physical and spiritual blessing and growth.

Shabbat Shalom