P140 Parash 36
Be Ha’alothekha:
B’Midbar/ Numbers 8:1-12:16
Synopsis –
the
Moshe/Moses
receives the law regarding the lampstand, the sanctification of the Levites, the
silver trumpets, the quail; Aaron and Miriam speak against Moses
Theme & Message –
The theme
of this portion is about establishing a relationship with the Lord through
humility, responsibility and obedience. We watch as the newly freed slaves
struggle to understand their new identity as servants of a mighty God and King..
Just as any of us struggles to learn the likes and dislikes of a new teacher or
a new employer, the ancient Israelites learned know their God and how to please
Him. The persistent contrast between the humble approach of Moses and the pride
of some of the community members throughout this parash emphasizes the rewards
and power poured out to those with humble hearts. The severity of the
punishments towards the prideful people is shocking, but necessary. Humility is
just the beginning. The Lord speaks to us clearly about the responsibilities and
the obedience required by those who would serve Him. Those of us who have been
freed from the bondage of sin need to take the time to get to know our Father in
Heaven. We need not be discouraged by our mistakes along the way, because the
Lord is faithful to sustain us and strengthen us. He keeps His promises. Once we
are saved, we need to be ever mindful that we are saved for a purpose – His
purposes, in fact. WE have new expectations of obedience in order to fulfill our
new responsibilities.
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