Throughout the Torah, we receive communications from God in many different forms. Last week, I shared with you that God stayed with us as the presence of clouds. This week God communicates to us through a variety of animals.
In the Torah portion, Chukat, God sends serpents to attack the Israelites who are complaining: “Why did you make us leave Egypt to die in the wilderness? There is no bread and no water, and we have come to loathe this miserable food” (Num. 21:5). But, serpents are also the symbol of healing in that when a serpent would bit anyone, we could look at the copper serpent and recover. (Num. 21:9).
In the Torah portion, Balak, a donkey blocks the way for Balaam, who intends to curse the Jewish people. This donkey turns into an angel who warns Balaam not to curse us, but to bless us instead. Balaam can only utter the words of God, which come out in Num. 24:5 as “Mah Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov.” How fair are your tents, O Jacob, Your dwellings, O Israel!
Each of us has a different way of hearing important messages. If you are currently reading this EKI, then EKI is one of your top ways of hearing from us! Some of us need a phone call, a visit, a hug, a Facebook message. Some of us have learned new ways to communicate over the pandemic, like zooming, yard signs, sidewalk chalk messages, and social distanced visits.
One mode of communication that KI has not really explored before is Instagram. In an effort to try this platform, we are launching an Instagram challenge! Our Instagram page is @KIfamily1847. And everyone can participate, even if the word Instagram means nothing to you. Take a picture of yourself with one of our new, “Love Your Neighbor As Yourself” signs, either in your yard or hold it up. We need your pictures! You can submit them here. Here is an example of me!
The “Love Your Neighbor As Yourself” signs will be available for pickup near the front entrance at KI. If you would like to make a donation for the signs, there is a white basket for you to leave your donation in. It will go to HaMotzi Fund, to help the food insecure. If you would like someone to bring one to you, let us know.
Let us continue to be open to the many ways God communicates with us, the more we listen, the more connected we will remain to each other.
