Sacrifice of your time, of your resources and of yourself….As we read about the ancient rites our ancestors engaged to make their animal offerings, we discover their motivations are not far from our own when we visit holy precincts to pray.
Jews over the ages, at our two Temples and in synagogues, have thought to themselves: If I sinned let me sacrific my time or give tzedakah and make atonement. If I am filled with gratitude let me bring an offering that will be shared with others. At the heart of the sacrificial system is the kavannah of worshippers, the intentionality, we come with – and either or both God’s and the ritual leaders’ acceptance of us as we are.
Rulebooks about how to slaughter or sprinkle blood do not immediately speak to everyone. We are, though, taken by the fact that those who came before us gave of their most precious resources to expiate sin, demonstrate their gladness and their gratitude and to share holy meals with their communities.
We who are coming together to read Parshat Vayikra will be able to answer “Amen!” to blessings for fellow members’ birthdays and express gratitude for our lives and our precious time on Earth. Come partake of the Kiddush lunch (thank you Alan and Josh!).
The midrash in Leviticus Rabbah explains that when we read the Torah passages about the sacrifices it is as if we ourselves have offered them on the altar. May the fires of Israel that are now in our hearts be acceptable to God and help bring light to our lives, our commuinity, our nation and to all Israel.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Bolton