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Rabbi Sherman’s Weekly Torah Commentary – November 6-7, 2020 (20 Cheshvan 5781)

November 6-7, 2020
20 Cheshvan 5781
Parashat Vayeira

Abraham and Sarah represent the model of hospitality. When three strange men arrive unexpectedly at their tent, Abraham welcomes them. He offers them a place to rest and to wash, and Sarah prepares food and drink. The visitors announce that Sarah will have a child. Our Rabbis suggest that perhaps these strange men were angels or messengers from God. With Abraham and Sarah as our example, we too open our homes and our synagogues to all—to family, to friends, and even to those we don’t know. This Jewish value of hachnasat orchim (welcoming guests) has endured throughout the generations.

Rabbi Judah Loew of Prague teaches: “To welcome a guest into your home and treat him with respect because he is created in the likeness and image of God—this is considered like honoring God.”

When we open our homes and our synagogues to strangers and friends, perhaps the Divine is present for us in those moments of welcoming.

Questions for Reflection:

  1. How does it feel to be truly welcomed into someone’s else’s home?
  2. What are some ways we can extend hospitality in this time of social distancing?

 

Join me on Wednesdays at 11:00 AM for “Shmoozing with Rabbi Sherman.”

All are welcome – limited seating in the Synagogue and audio only on Channel 1960.

Bring your curiosity, an open mind, and whatever Jewish thoughts are on your mind this week.

Please join our Shabbat celebrations on Channel 1960:

Friday at 4:30 PMKabbalat Shabbat & Shabbat Ma’ariv (Evening Service)

Saturday at 10:00 AMShabbat Shacharit (Morning Service)

On Friday night, I will offer a special blessing for all Residents with November birthdays!

If you know someone in need of healing and would like me to include their name(s) in our healing prayers on Saturday mornings, please complete the form you received and return to the Front Desk or to me. Of course, you are welcome to add or remove a name at any time.

Candle lighting time for the city of Mission Viejo:

Friday evening at 4:35 PM

Shabbat ends Saturday evening at 5:31 PM

Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Sherman