From the Rabbi

Have you ever said, out loud, “I have no time to rest?” We think that resting is something to do, to do later, that resting is a waste of time, or a frivolous indulgence.

And how about that frivolous indulgence thing? Hosting lovely dinners, trying new places – among many others – I mean, who has time??

Torah and Judaism offer a radically different perspective on rest, and on joy. We say: just do it. And just do it religiously. That may scare some of us away as well.

Can we hold and mark Shabbat in our busy and mostly secular lives as a sacred commitment? Lekha Dodi speaks of Shabbat as a beloved soul mate, one who is adored and desired, a bride, a queen. It crowns each week, and even if you don’t style yourself a glittery diva, it’s there for you to try on. In our Shabbat Kiddush blessing, we announce that God rested on the seventh day, for everything that could be done in those six days was complete. We have many eons ahead of us letaken ha-olam¸ to repair the world, as partners in creation. Take a Friday night or a Saturday off once in a while. This coming Shabbat*, do one more Shabbat thing, and if that’s easy for you, try to not do one weekday thing this coming Shabbat. It might be regally wonderful.

Rabbi Liz