Tzav - Reading #3

Tzav צַו - Command!

Leviticus 6:1-8:36

Reading #3 - Leviticus 7:11–38

My Thoughts:

In today’s reading we have certain instructions on consuming the offering meat after it has been offered and burned. In some cases the person making the offering has the meat to eat (verses 11-15) and in other verses the priests are entitled to it. What I find most valuable is that Hashem is not letting any of the offerings go to waste. Maybe you weren’t planning on giving up a valuable animal, until you realized you sinned. But, after you're commanded to do so, you are able to keep the cooked meat for two days. It seems pretty generous of Hashem to offer this back to you. Don’t you think?

Challenge:

There are five offerings listed in this recent reading in Leviticus. They can be a little hard to understand because most of us do not live in a Jewish community where these offerings are made (and because there currently is not a Temple in Jerusalem to offer them!). So, the best we can do is research and learn. Today I ask you to go to the “heart” of this all. We discussed yesterday about how the main aspect of giving the offerings was to draw closer to Hashem. We know this, that sins separates us from communing with Hashem. An offering of repentance and worship brings us back to Him. Just like in Temple times you could bring an animal or meal offering, now you can bring a worship, prayer or mitzvah offering to Hashem. Let’s remember that -- so we can stay close to Hashem every day!

Reading #3 - Leviticus 7:11–38

7:11 “‘This is the law of the sacrifice of peace offerings, which one shall offer to Hashem: 12 If he offers it for a thanksgiving, then he shall offer with the sacrifice of thanksgiving unleavened cakes mixed with oil, and unleavened wafers anointed with oil, and cakes mixed with oil. 13 He shall offer his offering with the sacrifice of his peace offerings for thanksgiving with cakes of leavened bread. 14 Of it he shall offer one out of each offering for a heave offering to Hashem. It shall be the priest’s who sprinkles the blood of the peace offerings. 15 The flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings for thanksgiving shall be eaten on the day of his offering. He shall not leave any of it until the morning.

16 “‘But if the sacrifice of his offering is a vow, or a free will offering, it shall be eaten on the day that he offers his sacrifice. On the next day what remains of it shall be eaten, 17 but what remains of the meat of the sacrifice on the third day shall be burned with fire. 18 If any of the meat of the sacrifice of his peace offerings is eaten on the third day, it will not be accepted, and it shall not be credited to him who offers it. It will be an abomination, and the soul who eats any of it will bear his iniquity.

19 “‘The meat that touches any unclean thing shall not be eaten. It shall be burned with fire. As for the meat, everyone who is clean may eat it; 20 but the soul who eats of the meat of the sacrifice of peace offerings that belongs to Hashem, having his uncleanness on him, that soul shall be cut off from his people. 21 When anyone touches any unclean thing, the uncleanness of man, or an unclean animal, or any unclean abomination, and eats some of the meat of the sacrifice of peace offerings which belong to Hashem, that soul shall be cut off from his people.’”

22 Hashem spoke to Moses, saying, 23 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying, ‘You shall eat no fat, of bull, or sheep, or goat. 24 The fat of that which dies of itself, and the fat of that which is torn of animals, may be used for any other service, but you shall in no way eat of it. 25 For whoever eats the fat of the animal which men offer as an offering made by fire to Hashem, even the soul who eats it shall be cut off from his people. 26 You shall not eat any blood, whether it is of bird or of animal, in any of your dwellings. 27 Whoever it is who eats any blood, that soul shall be cut off from his people.’”

28 Hashem spoke to Moses, saying, 29 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying, ‘He who offers the sacrifice of his peace offerings to Hashem shall bring his offering to Hashem out of the sacrifice of his peace offerings. 30 With his own hands he shall bring the offerings of Hashem made by fire. He shall bring the fat with the breast, that the breast may be waved for a wave offering before Hashem. 31 The priest shall burn the fat on the altar, but the breast shall be Aaron’s and his sons’. 32 The right thigh you shall give to the priest for a heave offering out of the sacrifices of your peace offerings. 33 He among the sons of Aaron who offers the blood of the peace offerings, and the fat, shall have the right thigh for a portion. 34 For the waved breast and the heaved thigh I have taken from the children of Israel out of the sacrifices of their peace offerings, and have given them to Aaron the priest and to his sons as their portion forever from the children of Israel.’”

35 This is the consecrated portion of Aaron, and the consecrated portion of his sons, out of the offerings of Hashem made by fire, in the day when he presented them to minister to Hashem in the priest’s office; 36 which Hashem commanded to be given them of the children of Israel, in the day that he anointed them. It is their portion forever throughout their generations. 37 This is the law of the burnt offering, the meal offering, the sin offering, the trespass offering, the consecration, and the sacrifice of peace offerings 38 which Hashem commanded Moses in Mount Sinai in the day that he commanded the children of Israel to offer their offerings to Hashem, in the wilderness of Sinai.

Vayikra - Reading #3

Vayikra  וַיִּקְרָא - And He Called

Leviticus 1:1-5:26

Reading #3 - Leviticus 2:7–16

My Thoughts:

In verse 13 Hashem is asking the meal offering to be seasoned with salt, because of the “salt covenant” with Him. In ancient days, covenants were sealed with salt. Making a covenant was a way of confirming a relationship. Salt gives flavor. Some sages say it represents fire and water. In this journey of the Israelites to the Land He has given them, there are many covenants being instituted. The covenant of following Torah is probably the largest. But in this small meal offering, we are reminded that we are in covenant with Hashem. And within that is great power and destiny.

Challenge:

Take some time today to think about what “covenants” or agreements you are in with Hashem. Are you following and obeying your covenant with Him regarding Torah? Are you in a marriage where you made a marital covenant before Hashem? Are you in covenant with Hashem regarding the Sabbath -- do you honor and preserve it? Review your covenants today and make a re-commitment to follow them. Worship and praise Hashem for your covenant relationship with Him. There is no other like it.

Reading #3 - Leviticus 2:7–16

7 If your offering is a meal offering of the pan, it shall be made of fine flour with oil. 8 You shall bring the meal offering that is made of these things to Hashem. It shall be presented to the priest, and he shall bring it to the altar. 9 The priest shall take from the meal offering its memorial, and shall burn it on the altar, an offering made by fire, of a pleasant aroma to Hashem. 10 That which is left of the meal offering shall be Aaron’s and his sons’. It is a most holy part of the offerings of Hashem made by fire.

11 “‘No meal offering which you shall offer to Hashem shall be made with yeast; for you shall burn no yeast, nor any honey, as an offering made by fire to Hashem. 12 As an offering of first fruits you shall offer them to Hashem, but they shall not rise up as a pleasant aroma on the altar. 13 Every offering of your meal offering you shall season with salt. You shall not allow the salt of the covenant of your Elohim to be lacking from your meal offering. With all your offerings you shall offer salt.

14 “‘If you offer a meal offering of first fruits to Hashem, you shall offer for the meal offering of your first fruits fresh heads of grain parched with fire and crushed. 15 You shall put oil on it and lay frankincense on it. It is a meal offering. 16 The priest shall burn as its memorial part of its crushed grain and part of its oil, along with all its frankincense. It is an offering made by fire to Hashem.

Pekudei - Reading #3

Pekudei  פְקוּדֵי - Accounts

Torah Reading: Exodus 38:21-40:38

Reading #3 - Exodus 39:22–32

My Thoughts:

In verse 30 we read that there is a crown for the priest that says “Holy to Hashem”. Why would Hashem think this would be needed? If you do a little research you will see it was actually common, in other religions, for priests to wear tiaras or crowns. Maybe Hashem decided that He would do the same for the priests among His chosen people, only their crowns would have a message. Their crowns would have a constant reminder that they must be Holy before the L-rd! It would encourage this responsibility. Maybe we too, need some sort of reminder to be holy before Hashem in all we do! What would that look like?

Challenge:

After each task, it is written “...as Hashem commanded Moses”. And in verse 32, after the Tabernacle is finished, we read, “The children of Israel did according to all that Hashem commanded Moses; so they did.” In other words, Moses got directions from Hashem – and conveyed them directly to the people. When they heard what to do, they did not question him, they just did it! I would like to challenge you today. As you study and read through the Torah – are you doing “all that Hashem commanded Moses”? That is what this blog is all about. Let’s read daily exactly what Hashem commanded Moses. And after reading and studying – let’s think about it and pray and ask Hashem how to follow His commands. So that we can answer like the children of Israel and as we hear the commands “so they did” (so we do!).

Reading #3 - Exodus 39:22-32

22 He made the robe of the ephod of woven work, all of blue. 23 The opening of the robe in the middle of it was like the opening of a coat of mail, with a binding around its opening, that it should not be torn. 24 They made on the skirts of the robe pomegranates of blue, purple, scarlet, and twined linen. 25 They made bells of pure gold, and put the bells between the pomegranates around the skirts of the robe, between the pomegranates; 26 a bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate, around the skirts of the robe, to minister in, as Hashem commanded Moses.

27 They made the tunics of fine linen of woven work for Aaron and for his sons, 28 the turban of fine linen, the linen headbands of fine linen, the linen trousers of fine twined linen, 29 the sash of fine twined linen, blue, purple, and scarlet, the work of the embroiderer, as Hashem commanded Moses.

30 They made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote on it an inscription, like the engravings of a signet: “HOLY TO HASHEM”. 31 They tied to it a lace of blue, to fasten it on the turban above, as Hashem commanded Moses.

32 Thus all the work of the tabernacle of the Tent of Meeting was finished. The children of Israel did according to all that Hashem commanded Moses; so they did.

Vayakhel - Reading #3

Vayakhel  וַיַּקְהֵל - And He Assembled

Torah Reading: Exodus 35:1-38:20

Reading #3 – Exodus 35:30–36:7

My Thoughts:

In verse 36:6 we read, “So the people were restrained from bringing”. Can you even imagine? Think about the church, synagogue or small group you attend and the leader telling you not to donate anymore to the ministry that you have been giving to. That they have more than enough. Wouldn’t that be so amazing? I actually witnessed this a few weeks ago. In a local community zoom meeting I was attending, the director of a local non-profit spoke to us. She was asked how we could help her ministry. She said, “Really right now we have enough. We have been over blessed with money and goods to help our clients.” I was astonished. I had never heard someone from a non-profit agency say that they had all they needed. Truly this ministry was super blessed by Hashem!

Challenge:

My challenge to you is to “check out” the group/ministry that you usually give to. Maybe you can ask for a fiscal report and see how they are doing. If it looks like their income has far exceeded their expenses, then maybe it is time to pray about giving elsewhere for a while. We want to be good stewards of all that Hashem has given us. We need to make sure we are giving to the organization/group that Hashem has called us to. Amen!

Exodus 35:30–36:7

30 Moses said to the children of Israel, “Behold, Hashem has called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. 31 He has filled him with the Spirit of Elohim, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all kinds of workmanship; 32 and to make skillful works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze, 33 in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all kinds of skillful workmanship. 34 He has put in his heart that he may teach, both he and Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. 35 He has filled them with wisdom of heart to work all kinds of workmanship, of the engraver, of the skillful workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of those who do any workmanship, and of those who make skillful works.

36 “Bezalel and Oholiab shall work with every wise-hearted man, in whom Hashem has put wisdom and understanding to know how to do all the work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that Hashem has commanded.”

2 Moses called Bezalel and Oholiab, and every wise-hearted man, in whose heart Hashem had put wisdom, even everyone whose heart stirred him up to come to the work to do it. 3 They received from Moses all the offering which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of the sanctuary, with which to make it. They kept bringing free will offerings to him every morning. 4 All the wise men, who performed all the work of the sanctuary, each came from his work which he did. 5 They spoke to Moses, saying, “The people have brought much more than enough for the service of the work which Hashem commanded to make.”

6 Moses gave a commandment, and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, “Let neither man nor woman make anything else for the offering for the sanctuary.” So the people were restrained from bringing. 7 For the stuff they had was sufficient to do all the work, and too much.

Ki Tisa - Reading #3

Ki Tisa  כִּי תִשָּׂא - When You Elevate
Exodus 30:11-34:35

Reading #3 - Exodus 33:12–16

My Thoughts:

Moses is leading thousands of His people into the Holy Land. What is he concerned about? He is interested that Hashem is going to go with him. In fact he says “Don’t carry us up from here  -- if Your presence doesn’t go with me” (verse 15). That is really his only concern, that Hashem leads the way. It is the biggest task in the world, and he knows that he can’t do it without Him. Isn’t that how our lives should be? That we don’t go forward with any big decisions (and some small) without Hashem going before us? Think about it. If you are making some really important changes in your life, be sure you have invited Hashem to be with you and help you -- all the way!

Challenge:

In verse 13 of today’s reading Moses says, “Please show me Your way, now, that I may know You.” It is important to know G-d’s way. Sometimes it is very different from the way we think we should go. Today I challenge you to search out Hashem’s way in your life. Make sure you are on His path. Usually you can tell because you don’t have peace in your heart. When Hashem is in your life -- you have total shalom peace. Check it out today.

Reading #3 - Exodus 33:12–16

33:12 Moses said to Hashem, “Behold, You tell me, ‘Bring up this people;’ and You haven’t let me know whom You will send with me. Yet You have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found favor in My sight.’ 13 Now therefore, if I have found favor in Your sight, please show me Your way, now, that I may know You, so that I may find favor in Your sight; and consider that this nation is Your people.”

14 He said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

15 Moses said to Him, “If Your presence doesn’t go with me, don’t carry us up from here. 16 For how would people know that I have found favor in Your sight, I and Your people? Isn’t it that You go with us, so that we are separated, I and Your people, from all the people who are on the surface of the earth?”

Tetzaveh - Reading #3

Tetzaveh תְּצַוֶּה - You Shall Command

Exodus: 27:20-30:10

Reading #3 - Exodus 28:31–43

My Thoughts:

In verse 36 we learn that Aaron is to have a gold plate on his forehead, with words that honor Hashem, “Holy to Hashem”. This is most likely to remind him that all that is happening in the Tabernacle is for the holiness of Hashem. It’s not like he would forget, but sometimes even special things can become “routine”. It doesn’t seem like this could ever happen in the Holy Place where Hashem’s glory resides behind the veil, but maybe it could. Aaron was still living on our planet, a place full of sin and challenge everyday. It would be a challenge to be in the presence of Hashem and commit 100% of your body, soul and mind. How about today? Can we “wear” Hashem’s holiness on our foreheads? In essence, we do when we serve and love Him with our whole minds everyday. Are we 100% about this 24/7? I doubt it. But, we must try our best. Our best to leave behind the temptations of this world, and serve Hashem wholeheartedly in our minds (and actions) all the time. Think about “wearing” a plate with Hashem’s Name on your forehead today! Fulfill that responsibility with your actions.

Challenge:

Hashem cares about every tiny detail of our lives. This is reflected in this reading today when Hashem commands Aaron to wear a robe with tiny bells on the hem. So the priests near him can hear him when he is in the Holy of Holies, and also in the Holy Place. This makes you think about how sensitive and caring our Elohim is for us. I believe He is still that way today. He does care about the littlest details in our lives. And if this is so, shouldn’t we be honoring Him in all the small ways of our lives? Pay attention today and see if you are honoring Hashem in ALL the ways of your daily life. In your speech, thoughts and actions. Work on it, and I will too!

Reading # 3 - Exodus 28:31–43

28:31 “You shall make the robe of the ephod all of blue. 32 It shall have a hole for the head in the middle of it. It shall have a binding of woven work around its hole, as it were the hole of a coat of mail, that it not be torn. 33 On its hem you shall make pomegranates of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, all around its hem; with bells of gold between and around them: 34 a golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, around the hem of the robe. 35 It shall be on Aaron to minister: and its sound shall be heard when he goes in to the holy place before Hashem, and when he comes out, that he not die.

36 “You shall make a plate of pure gold, and engrave on it, like the engravings of a signet, ‘HOLY TO HASHEM.’ 37 You shall put it on a lace of blue, and it shall be on the sash. It shall be on the front of the sash. 38 It shall be on Aaron’s forehead, and Aaron shall bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall make holy in all their holy gifts; and it shall be always on his forehead, that they may be accepted before Hashem. 39 You shall weave the tunic with fine linen. You shall make a turban of fine linen. You shall make a sash, the work of the embroiderer.

40 “You shall make tunics for Aaron’s sons. You shall make sashes for them. You shall make headbands for them, for glory and for beauty. 41 You shall put them on Aaron your brother, and on his sons with him, and shall anoint them, and consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister to me in the priest’s office. 42 You shall make them linen pants to cover their naked flesh. They shall reach from the waist even to the thighs. 43 They shall be on Aaron and on his sons, when they go in to the Tent of Meeting, or when they come near to the altar to minister in the holy place, that they don’t bear iniquity, and die. This shall be a statute forever to him and to his offspring after him.

Terumah - Reading #3

Terumah תְּרוּמָה - Offering

Exodus:25:1-27:19

Reading #3 - Exodus 25:31–26:14

My Thoughts:

Interesting in verse 26:17 “You shall make a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red” - we see that Hashem is asking for rams to be sacrificed so that a covering will be made. We know the importance of the ram in the story of Abraham and Isaac. The ram is the substitute offering for Isaac’s life. How appropriate the tent will now be covered in ram’s skins. Every detail of the Tabernacle has meaning. Maybe the skins were dyed red to remind us of the power of blood sacrifices -- repentance and forgiveness. It is all so carefully planned by our Elohim!

Challenge:

This reading is about detailed instructions for the house of Elohim. He gives instructions for a lamp stand. This lamp stand will bring light into the “Holy Place”. There are no windows, the lamp will give its light. Without it the priests would be in the dark. Of course, the same in our lives. Without the light of Hashem and His only begotten son Yeshua, we walk in the dark. The Torah brings light and life into our lives. My challenge for you today is to look at your daily life. Are you reading Torah and Scriptures on a daily basis and bringing Hashem’s light into your life and others? If not, please start to do so today. We all need to stop walking in the dark.

Reading #3 - Exodus 25:31–26:14

25:31 “You shall make a lamp stand of pure gold. The lamp stand shall be made of hammered work. Its base, its shaft, its cups, its buds, and its flowers shall be of one piece with it. 32 There shall be six branches going out of its sides: three branches of the lamp stand out of its one side, and three branches of the lamp stand out of its other side; 33 three cups made like almond blossoms in one branch, a bud and a flower; and three cups made like almond blossoms in the other branch, a bud and a flower, so for the six branches going out of the lamp stand; 34 and in the lamp stand four cups made like almond blossoms, its buds and its flowers; 35 and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, for the six branches going out of the lamp stand. 36 Their buds and their branches shall be of one piece with it, all of it one beaten work of pure gold. 37 You shall make its lamps seven, and they shall light its lamps to give light to the space in front of it. 38 Its snuffers and its snuff dishes shall be of pure gold. 39 It shall be made of a talent of pure gold, with all these accessories. 40 See that you make them after their pattern, which has been shown to you on the mountain.

26 “Moreover you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, with cherubim. You shall make them with the work of a skillful workman. 2 The length of each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits, and the width of each curtain four cubits: all the curtains shall have one measure. 3 Five curtains shall be coupled together to one another, and the other five curtains shall be coupled to one another. 4 You shall make loops of blue on the edge of the one curtain from the edge in the coupling, and you shall do likewise on the edge of the curtain that is outermost in the second coupling. 5 You shall make fifty loops in the one curtain, and you shall make fifty loops in the edge of the curtain that is in the second coupling. The loops shall be opposite one another. 6 You shall make fifty clasps of gold, and couple the curtains to one another with the clasps. The tabernacle shall be a unit.

7 “You shall make curtains of goats’ hair for a covering over the tabernacle. You shall make eleven curtains. 8 The length of each curtain shall be thirty cubits, and the width of each curtain four cubits: the eleven curtains shall have one measure. 9 You shall couple five curtains by themselves, and six curtains by themselves, and shall double over the sixth curtain in the forefront of the tent. 10 You shall make fifty loops on the edge of the one curtain that is outermost in the coupling, and fifty loops on the edge of the curtain which is outermost in the second coupling. 11 You shall make fifty clasps of bronze, and put the clasps into the loops, and couple the tent together, that it may be one. 12 The overhanging part that remains of the curtains of the tent—the half curtain that remains—shall hang over the back of the tabernacle. 13 The cubit on the one side and the cubit on the other side, of that which remains in the length of the curtains of the tent, shall hang over the sides of the tabernacle on this side and on that side, to cover it. 14 You shall make a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering of sea cow hides above.

Mishpatim - Reading #3

Mishpatim מִּשְׁפָּטִים - Laws

Exodus: 21:1-24:18

Reading #3 -  Exodus 22:4–26

My Thoughts:

We are learning more about the fairness of Hashem. What I particularly like and appreciate is if we borrow things or we are using things from someone else and they become broken or damaged, we make restitution. Many people who do this will simply say they are sorry, but they don’t replace or repair the item. It is so very fair to provide restitution. It makes things right and just. If your conscience is jarred about something you did similar to this, then I encourage you to make restitution today! This is a part of making the world better, because you are making your relationships better!

Challenge:

Verse 21 tells about how to treat strangers. Remember we were once strangers. Which is true for all of us. Whether we were strangers in a new neighborhood, or job, or relationship. We had to adjust to new surroundings and new people. So, we are to look out for the stranger that comes into our lives. It reminds me of when I go to a community event. If I have been there before and I notice a new person, I try to go out of my way to make them comfortable. You should do the same. It is a Commandment. And you will be blessed -- especially the next time you are the new person in a group!

Reading #3 -  Exodus 22:4–26

22:4 If the stolen property is found in his hand alive, whether it is ox, donkey, or sheep, he shall pay double.

5 “If a man causes a field or vineyard to be eaten by letting his animal loose, and it grazes in another man’s field, he shall make restitution from the best of his own field, and from the best of his own vineyard.

6 “If fire breaks out, and catches in thorns so that the shocks of grain, or the standing grain, or the field are consumed; he who kindled the fire shall surely make restitution.

7 “If a man delivers to his neighbor money or stuff to keep, and it is stolen out of the man’s house, if the thief is found, he shall pay double. 8 If the thief isn’t found, then the master of the house shall come near to Elohim, to find out whether or not he has put his hand on his neighbor’s goods. 9 For every matter of trespass, whether it is for ox, for donkey, for sheep, for clothing, or for any kind of lost thing, about which one says, ‘This is mine,’ the cause of both parties shall come before Elohim. He whom Elohim condemns shall pay double to his neighbor.

10 “If a man delivers to his neighbor a donkey, an ox, a sheep, or any animal to keep, and it dies or is injured, or driven away, no man seeing it; 11 the oath of Hashem shall be between them both, he has not put his hand on his neighbor’s goods; and its owner shall accept it, and he shall not make restitution. 12 But if it is stolen from him, the one who stole shall make restitution to its owner. 13 If it is torn in pieces, let him bring it for evidence. He shall not make good that which was torn.

14 “If a man borrows anything of his neighbor’s, and it is injured, or dies, its owner not being with it, he shall surely make restitution. 15 If its owner is with it, he shall not make it good. If it is a leased thing, it came for its lease.

16 “If a man entices a virgin who isn’t pledged to be married, and lies with her, he shall surely pay a dowry for her to be his wife. 17 If her father utterly refuses to give her to him, he shall pay money according to the dowry of virgins.

18 “You shall not allow a sorceress to live.

19 “Whoever has sex with an animal shall surely be put to death.

20 “He who sacrifices to any god, except to Hashem only, shall be utterly destroyed.

21 “You shall not wrong an alien or oppress him, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt.

22 “You shall not take advantage of any widow or fatherless child. 23 If you take advantage of them at all, and they cry at all to me, I will surely hear their cry; 24 and my wrath will grow hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.

25 “If you lend money to any of my people with you who is poor, you shall not be to him as a creditor. You shall not charge him interest. 26 If you take your neighbor’s garment as collateral, you shall restore it to him before the sun goes down,

Yitro - Reading #3

Yitro יִתְרוֹ - Jethro

Exodus: 18:1-20:22

Reading #3 - Exodus 18:24–27

My Thoughts:

Yesterday we talked about respecting our elders, and in-laws. But, there is more than respect. There is actually listening to what they say and doing it! In verse 24 we read, “So Moses listened to the voice of his father-in-law, and did all that he had said.” Sometimes it can be kind of scary to carry out the advice of an older person, especially if you don’t agree with it. But, Hashem gives wisdom to those who are more advanced in years. If you have asked for advice from an in-law or older friend, and they have given you some direction -- take it! See what happens. Moses did and it helped him tremendously!

Challenge:

So, really what this all comes down to is TRUST. Do you trust those in authority over you? You may think they don’t deserve trust and maybe they don’t. Or maybe they have done something hurtful that makes you not want to trust them. My challenge today is to take some “baby steps”. Ask this person what they think about something, and if it seems like reasonable advice, then take it. If things work out, then maybe you can begin to trust this person again. Give them a chance to prove that people make mistakes, but they can also be of great help to you!

Reading #3 - Exodus 18:24–27

24 So Moses listened to the voice of his father-in-law, and did all that he had said. 25 Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. 26 They judged the people at all times. They brought the hard cases to Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves. 27 Moses let his father-in-law depart, and he went his way into his own land.

Beshalach - Reading #3

Beshalach בְּשַׁלַּח - When He Sent Out

Exodus:13:17-17:16

Reading #3 - Exodus 14:15–25

My Thoughts:

Pillar of cloud. Can you imagine what that would look like? It protected them from the hot sun and obscured them from the Egyptians. It makes me wonder if there are times in life when Hashem presents Himself between us and the “enemy”. If He “hides” us from evil. I’m sure He does and that is a very comforting thought. It is important to pray for His protection every day over our lives and those we love. Now we can pray that He continues to present a “cloud” of covering between us and the enemy. Thank you Hashem!

Challenge:

What do you need protection for in your life? Your finances, your health, your spouse, your children, your home? It is super important to ask Him for that protection. Ask on a daily basis. He is our Protector and our Shield. And I am grateful for that. Today I challenge you to go before Hashem and ask Him for specific protection. Then praise Him for His faithfulness. Amen.

Reading #3 - Exodus 14:15–25

14:15 Hashem said to Moses, “Why do you cry to me? Speak to the children of Israel, that they go forward. 16 Lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. Then the children of Israel shall go into the middle of the sea on dry ground. 17 Behold, I myself will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they will go in after them. I will get myself honor over Pharaoh, and over all his armies, over his chariots, and over his horsemen. 18 The Egyptians shall know that I am Hashem when I have gotten myself honor over Pharaoh, over his chariots, and over his horsemen.” 19 The angel of Elohim, who went before the camp of Israel, moved and went behind them; and the pillar of cloud moved from before them, and stood behind them. 20 It came between the camp of Egypt and the camp of Israel. There was the cloud and the darkness, yet it gave light by night. One didn’t come near the other all night.

21 Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and Hashem caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. 22 The children of Israel went into the middle of the sea on the dry ground; and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. 23 The Egyptians pursued, and went in after them into the middle of the sea: all of Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. 24 In the morning watch, Hashem looked out on the Egyptian army through the pillar of fire and of cloud, and confused the Egyptian army. 25 He took off their chariot wheels, and they drove them heavily; so that the Egyptians said, “Let’s flee from the face of Israel, for Hashem fights for them against the Egyptians!”

Bo - Reading #3

Bo, בֹּא - Come!

Exodus:10:1-13:16

Reading #3 - Exodus 10:24–11:3

My Thoughts:

With this reading I think about the times Pharaoh is going back on his word. He says he will let them go, then always changes his mind. You may say this is because Hashem “hardened” his heart. And I am sure this is a large part of it all. But, regardless, he is not a man of his word. Today we have many people who are not “people of their word”. We say a lot of things, but we don’t stand behind what we say. In fact, many times, we don’t even do what we promise. How many times have you said, “I will be praying for you”. Only you walk away and never do? Or you say “I will call you soon”. But, you never do. Make sure when you tell someone you are going to do something -- you do it! You are representing Hashem and His faithfulness. Be careful.

Challenge:

In the last verse we see Moses was great in the sight of the people. What made him great? The miracles, his bravery, his strength, perseverance -- what? Maybe all those things. I challenge you today to think about what makes you “great” in the sight of others? What kind of traits do you have that others respect and admire? If you can’t think of many things then maybe it is time to change. Become a “light” to the nations. It is our purpose.

Reading #3 - Exodus 10:24–11:3

24 Pharaoh called to Moses, and said, “Go, serve Hashem. Only let your flocks and your herds stay behind. Let your little ones also go with you.”

25 Moses said, “You must also give into our hand sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice to Hashem our Elohim. 26 Our livestock also shall go with us. Not a hoof shall be left behind, for of it we must take to serve Hashem our Elohim; and we don’t know with what we must serve Hashem, until we come there.”

27 But Hashem hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he wouldn’t let them go. 28 Pharaoh said to him, “Get away from me! Be careful to see my face no more; for in the day you see my face you shall die!”

29 Moses said, “You have spoken well. I will see your face again no more.”

11 Hashem said to Moses, “I will bring yet one more plague on Pharaoh, and on Egypt; afterwards he will let you go. When he lets you go, he will surely thrust you out altogether. 2 Speak now in the ears of the people, and let every man ask of his neighbor, and every woman of her neighbor, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold.” 3 Hashem gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh’s servants, and in the sight of the people.

Va'eira - Reading #3

Va'eira  וָאֵרָא - And I Appeared

Torah Portion: Exodus 6:2-9:35

Reading #3 - Exodus 6:29–7:7

My Thoughts:

Hashem tells Moses to go ahead with His plan even though the Pharaoh won’t listen to him. Can you imagine what went through Moses' mind? He already does not feel adequate for the mission and now Hashem is telling him the Pharaoh isn’t going to listen to him. But, most important, we have to realize that Hashem does say He will be with him through it all. Ultimately, it is going to be Hashem delivering the people and not really Moses. Moses is just His instrument. His messenger. So, when Hashem calls you to do the impossible, remember this. It is Hashem working through you -- not you!

Challenge:

We read in 7:2 “Speak what I command you.” Here’s my challenge for today. Listen and look for how Hashem is directing you -- particularly with other people. Pray and listen for His voice. You will know it, it will give you peace. Then as you listen, speak out what you believe He is saying. Take a risk. You will be so amazed. Sometimes I will do this and say, “I think the L-rd is telling me to tell you ...this.” I don’t think it would be wise to say “Thus sayeth the L-rd.” The important part is to start listening to His voice and then tell others what you think He is saying. Give Hashem the glory for the results!

Reading #3 - Exodus 6:29–7:7

6:29 Hashem said to Moses, “I am Hashem. Tell Pharaoh king of Egypt all that I tell you.”

30 Moses said before Hashem, “Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips, and how shall Pharaoh listen to me?”

7 Hashem said to Moses, “Behold, I have made you as God to Pharaoh; and Aaron your brother shall be your prophet. 2 You shall speak all that I command you; and Aaron your brother shall speak to Pharaoh, that he let the children of Israel go out of his land. 3 I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and multiply my signs and my wonders in the land of Egypt. 4 But Pharaoh will not listen to you, so I will lay my hand on Egypt, and bring out my armies, my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments. 5 The Egyptians shall know that I am Hashem when I stretch out my hand on Egypt, and bring the children of Israel out from among them.”

6 Moses and Aaron did so. As Hashem commanded them, so they did. 7 Moses was eighty years old, and Aaron eighty-three years old, when they spoke to Pharaoh.

Shemot - Reading #3

Shemot, שְׁמוֹת - Names

Torah Portion: Exodus 1:1-6:1

Reading #3 - Exodus 2:11–25

My Thoughts:

Hashem hears our cries. This Scripture today proves it. In verse 24 it says, “Elohim heard their groaning, and Elohim remembered His covenant…”. Sometimes I know we feel like giving up because we don’t think Hashem is going to help us when we are in trouble or fighting a battle. But He does! It is just all in His timing not ours. We must remember this powerful story of His people. They were oppressed and were down trodden, they cried out to Hashem and He heard them. And most importantly, He did something about it! He raised up a deliverer in Moses -- and took them out of their hardship to the Land of milk and honey. Of course, that is another story...

Challenge:

Are you or someone you know going through a really tough time? Cry out to Hashem (pray and seek His face) and ask Him to help you/them. Write your prayer down on paper, and then when He answers you in His very special way -- write down how He blessed you! Maybe keep a prayer journal with other requests and answers. It will become a lifelong blessing and testimony of Elohim and His love for you!

Reading #3 - Exodus 2:11–25

2:11 In those days, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his brothers and saw their burdens. He saw an Egyptian striking a Hebrew, one of his brothers. 12 He looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no one, he killed the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.

13 He went out the second day, and behold, two men of the Hebrews were fighting with each other. He said to him who did the wrong, “Why do you strike your fellow?”

14 He said, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us? Do you plan to kill me, as you killed the Egyptian?”

Moses was afraid, and said, “Surely this thing is known.” 15 Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and lived in the land of Midian, and he sat down by a well.

16 Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters. They came and drew water, and filled the troughs to water their father’s flock. 17 The shepherds came and drove them away; but Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock. 18 When they came to Reuel, their father, he said, “How is it that you have returned so early today?”

19 They said, “An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds, and moreover he drew water for us, and watered the flock.”

20 He said to his daughters, “Where is he? Why is it that you have left the man? Call him, that he may eat bread.”

21 Moses was content to dwell with the man. He gave Moses Zipporah, his daughter. 22 She bore a son, and he named him Gershom, for he said, “I have lived as a foreigner in a foreign land.”

23 In the course of those many days, the king of Egypt died, and the children of Israel sighed because of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up to Elohim because of the bondage. 24 Elohim heard their groaning, and Elohim remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. 25 Elohim saw the children of Israel, and Elohim was concerned about them.

Vayechi - Reading #3

Vayechi, וַיְחִי - And He Lived

Torah Portion: Genesis 47:28-50:26

Reading #3 - Genesis 48:17–22

My Thoughts:

How does Ephraim’s offspring become greater than his brother’s (verse 19)? Ephraim became a powerful tribe in northern Israel -- but in 721 BC this tribe and nine other “northern” tribes lost a war with Syria and were taken away. Eventually this tribe is disbursed and becomes one of the “lost ten tribes”.

Here is a curious thought. What if the tribe of Ephraim, through dispersion and intermarriage, although assimilated, has become the largest tribe of peoples? What if all over the world, particularly the United Kingdom and the United States -- millions of people with Jewish heritage tied to the tribe of Ephraim -- exist? Some people think this is true. And that this may be the reason for the huge “Messianic Movement” throughout the earth. Many, many thousands of “gentile” people have had a sudden interest in their possible Jewish heritage and have found a certain special attachment to the Torah. It could certainly be an explanation of why some people are leaving churches and forming “Messianic Synagogues''. Maybe Hashem is calling us to get ready to return to Israel -- for the end times. Just a thought.

Challenge:

If you are a gentile, following and studying Torah, I challenge you to examine your ancestry (if you haven’t already done so). If you have older relatives that are alive, ask them about their history and if there are any ties to Judaism. Go on websites like www.ancestry.com and look up your family roots. You may be pleasantly surprised. And if you are like me and can not find any answers, but lots of substantial hints -- just accept that Hashem has called you “out” to find Truth in His Word through the Torah. Be grateful and praise Him.

Reading #3 - Genesis 48:17–22

48:17 When Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand on the head of Ephraim, it displeased him. He held up his father’s hand, to remove it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s head. 18 Joseph said to his father, “Not so, my father, for this is the firstborn. Put your right hand on his head.”

19 His father refused, and said, “I know, my son, I know. He also will become a people, and he also will be great. However, his younger brother will be greater than he, and his offspring will become a multitude of nations.” 20 He blessed them that day, saying, “Israel will bless in you, saying, ‘Elohim make you as Ephraim and as Manasseh’” He set Ephraim before Manasseh. 21 Israel said to Joseph, “Behold, I am dying, but Elohim will be with you, and bring you again to the land of your fathers. 22 Moreover I have given to you one portion above your brothers, which I took out of the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow.”

Vayigash - Reading #3

Vayigash וַיִּגַּשׁ - And He Drew Near

Torah Portion: Genesis 44:18-47:27

Reading #3 -  Genesis 45:8–18

My Thoughts: 

I’m thinking about how Joseph’s brothers are rewarded. Simply for being his brothers. What is interesting is that they thought about killing Joseph and then allowed him to be sold into slavery. I am sure their consciences bothered them throughout the years, but now they are super gifted by Joseph -- even after all they have done. 

Would you do that? Have you had a situation where someone has “wronged” you, and instead of taking revenge on them you treat them with kindness and generosity? What a better and healed world we would live in if we did this.

Challenge: 

Think back on anyone you may have wronged. Maybe they are not acting forgiving and generous like Joseph did, so what can you do to repair what you have done? Pray about it. Maybe Hashem will show you something special you can do for them. If He does, do not delay in carrying out the task. The sooner the better. By doing so you will feel freedom.

Reading #3 - Genesis 45:8–18

8 So now it wasn’t you who sent me here, but Elohim, and He has made me a father to Pharaoh, lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt. 9 Hurry, and go up to my father, and tell him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says, “Elohim has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me. Don’t wait. 10 You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you will be near to me, you, your children, your children’s children, your flocks, your herds, and all that you have. 11 There I will provide for you; for there are yet five years of famine; lest you come to poverty, you, and your household, and all that you have.”’ 12 Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth that speaks to you. 13 You shall tell my father of all my glory in Egypt, and of all that you have seen. You shall hurry and bring my father down here.” 14 He fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. 15 He kissed all his brothers, and wept on them. After that his brothers talked with him.

16 The report of it was heard in Pharaoh’s house, saying, “Joseph’s brothers have come.” It pleased Pharaoh well, and his servants. 17 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals, and go, travel to the land of Canaan. 18 Take your father and your households, and come to me, and I will give you the good of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the fat of the land.’