In this week's portion, Moses gives the people specific instructions for what they are to do when they enter the Land of Israel. Though he will not be accompanying them, he uses the term "tavo," which literally "when you come," as if he is inviting them in, not sending them somewhere (e.g. "when you go" ).
The first priority upon entering the land -- once it is possessed and settled? Gratitude: "[Y]ou shall take of the first of all the fruit of the ground, which you will bring from your land, which the Lord, your God, is giving you...". The fruit is to be brought to the priest, as a donation to the Temple, to give thanks.
Notably, the first fruits are usually not the best, plumpest, biggest fruits. But they are a sign of things to come. We are commanded to show gratitude at the first sign of potential, as the first hint of better things that are to come.
Gratitude is a powerful thing. I have been missing my grandmother, who passed away yesterday. At the same time, I am so grateful I had so much time with her -- especially recently, several months after she was given mere days to live.
On days when I feel sad, I try to remember the things for which I must be grateful -- not in comparison to someone else who is worse off than I am, but in an absolute sense. This life is a gift, and there is joy, if we know where to find it.
Today's episode is devoted to the second anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks. It was produced before the announcement of a ceasefire deal, yet remains current & relevant.
Please listen, and #bringthemhome.
SiriusXM Patriot 125, 7-10 p.m. ET (4-7 PT)
This week's portion is a beautiful poem, containing the Covenant between God and the people of Israel. But given the breaking news that Hamas may actually have agreed to release all of the Israeli hostages, I will devote my remarks to that.
One hopes it is true; if so, it makes this week's additional reading, from II Samuel 22, even more relevant: David's song of praise to the Lord for delivering him from the hand of his enemies.
"18 He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
from my foes, who were too strong for me.
19 They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the Lord was my support."
So much to focus on this week -- and much breaking news. A peace deal in the Middle East, perhaps? Eric Adams dropping out of the mayor's race? And a looming shutdown as Democrats push their demands beyond absurdity.
Special guests:
- Bradley Jaye - Breitbart News congressional correspondent, on the shutdown
- John Carney - Breitbart News financial editor, on the upcoming jobs report
- Jerome Hudson - Breitbart News entertainment editor, on the Kimmel fallout
- Frances Martel - Breitbart News foreign editor, on the UN and Gaza talks
- Matisyahu - award-winning reggae artist, on his new album, "Ancient Child"
Tune in: 7-10 p.m. ET, 4-7 p.m. PT
Call: 866-957-2874
