V'Zot HaBerachah וְזֹאת הַבְּרָכָה - And this is the blessing
Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12
Reading #6 - Deuteronomy 33:27–29
My Thoughts:
Here are Moses' closing remarks. What a wonderful and challenging journey he has undertaken. Now he stands with His people ready to enter the Land, only he will not be able to cross over. He knows he is about to die. But, Moses is clear on one thing -- Elohim is his dwelling place. There is nowhere else he will be when he enters the “Olam Haba” life in the world to come. He will be in paradise, a level of heaven I believe, until the final resurrection of life into the new world on earth. This will be where the Mashiach rules from the Temple in Jerusalem and the glory of Hashem fills the earth! It is all a beautiful life in His “everlasting arms”. Moses is about ready to say good-bye, but in all reality he is saying “hello” to eternal life. Amen!
Challenge:
Verse 29 says it all, You are happy, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by Hashem, the shield of your help, the sword of your excellency? Your enemies will submit themselves to you. You will tread on their high places.” There will be great happiness in the near future of Israel. They will be saved, protected by His “shield” and “sword” and the enemies will bow down to them. However, as we know from Torah writings, this will not last too long. Israel and its people will succumb to the influences of temptation. They will be exiled and defeated. There will be “mountaintops” and there will be “valleys”. Just like in our lives. And that is my “final” challenge to you in our daily readings this year. Be very self aware of who Hashem is in your life. Incorporate Him into every moment that you breathe. Stand with Him and for Him in all situations. Avoid temptations of sin, and repent immediately if you fall. Stay in daily readings as the new Torah cycle begins. Be immersed in Torah. Look for signs of Hashem during your day. See what He is doing all around you and JOIN HIM. Be blessed! I have enjoyed journeying with you all this year! Amen!
Reading #6 - Deuteronomy 33:27–29
33:27 The eternal Elohim is your dwelling place.
Underneath are the everlasting arms.
He thrust out the enemy from before you,
and said, ‘Destroy!’
28 Israel dwells in safety,
the fountain of Jacob alone,
In a land of grain and new wine.
Yes, His heavens drop down dew.
29 You are happy, Israel!
Who is like you, a people saved by Hashem,
the shield of your help,
the sword of your excellency?
Your enemies will submit themselves to you.
You will tread on their high places.”
