Bo (Come) Exodus/Sh’mot 10:1-13:16

 Bo(Come)Exodus/Sh’mot 10:1-13:16

Today we study what may be the most important Torah portion of the year. In the very first verse we read where G-d told Moshe to, “Come” to Pharaoh. Here Moshe was to relate to Pharaoh G-d’s final three plagues, locust, darkness and death of the first born. Sh’mot 10:1 reads, “And the L-rd said to Moshe, Come to Pharaoh.”  In all other times G-d told Moshe to go to Pharaoh. Why was the word “come” used here? I believe this gives all of us an important clues to the character of the Father. G-d was telling Moshe that no matter what we face G-d will be with us. He will already be there before us. Our faith should be strengthened by the use of this small word in this verse. 

Emor (Speak) Leviticus(Vayikra) 21-24

Torah Portion:  Emor(Speak) (Leviticus) Vayikra 21-24

Haftorah Reading: Ezekiel 44:15-31

Tonight we cover the Torah Portion Emor or Speak. This Torah portion is mainly about the yearly schedule of Mo’adim or festivals.  I would like to begin with a discussion of the word Emor. Usually we are cautioned about speaking too much and in general that is a good rule for us to follow. However, sometimes words are called for. A wise person knows the power of speech, how words have the power to hurt and damage people. But speech also can be used to build up. Positive words can encourage and build up a person. This kind of speech is important and when used properly can bring healing and encouragement. In this Torah portion, the word Emor is a command for Moshe to encourage his people. May we all do the same.

Passover Reading Lev 25 Counting the Omer

Passover Reading:  (Leviticus) Vayikra 25:1-16

Counting the Omer

At sundown today the holiday of Pesach ends and we count day eight of the omer. Since there is no Torah portion for this Sabbath we will give our attention to several topics that G-d has brought before me this week including some insight on counting the omer.

B’chukkotai (By my regulations) Vayikra Lev. 26

Torah Portion: B’chukkotai (By My regulations) Vayikra (Leviticus) 26:3-27:34

HafTorah: Jeremiah 16:19-17:14

New Testament: John 14:15-21; 15:10-12; I John

Today I want us to look at a difficult passage where G-d outlines the blessings and curses associated with obedience and disobedience. I want us to look at these on a personal level. But before we get to that we must realize that these verses were written on a national and a personal basis.