The nation of Israel and Jews around the world are presently in a state of sincere and solemn remembrance. On April 28th was Holocaust Memorial Day and on the upcoming Monday, May 5th, is Remembrance Day for those who have fallen in battle. Within Jewish culture is a continual imperative to REMEMBER and never forget!
In this week’s Torah Portion we see that this imperative to remember is God-given. Leviticus chapter 23 is a directive of God to Moses to teach the children of Israel the “Appointed Times” of God. These appointed times teach us to remember the past, to remember God, and to understand who we are before Him.
The purpose of the Appointed Times of God can be summed up in the following way:
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Time to rest
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Time to remember God’s faithfulness in the past
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Time to remember that we have been redeemed and set free
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Time to remember that we have been forgiven and all of our sins atoned for.
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Time to remember that God always provides for our needs
As we remember the Appointed Times of God let us recall all of God’s faithfulness. On Tuesday, May 6th, Israel will celebrate Independence Day and God’s faithfulness to His Word and to His people as the nation of Israel was reestablished in 1948.
This week’s Haftarah (from the prophets) is found in Ezek 44:15-31
In the book of Ezekiel, chapter 36, God’s Word tells us that He would one day restore the house of Israel to the Land, not for their sakes but only for the sake of His holy Name (36:22-24). Just as God has fulfilled this prophecy so He will fulfill all of His promises both to Israel and all the people called by His Name!
Shabbat Shalom!
Torah Portion: Lev. 21:1-24:23
Haftarah Reading: Ezekiel 44:15-31