This week's portion tells the story of Jacob's flight from his brother, Esau, as he seeks refuge with his mother's family. He meets his future wife (wives) and he establishes the basis for his own fortune before breaking with his father-in-law.
This portion has always been special to me, for three reasons. First, it is my father's bar mitzvah portion. Second, it has one of the most romantic meetings in the Bible. And third, the journey of the main character is quite compelling.
Jacob does something none of the Fathers (or Mothers) do: he embarks on a solo journey. (Even Abraham, when leaving his native land and father's home, brings his wife and family along with him.) This is a true journey of faith.
Accordingly, it is not just a journey of discovery, but also of self-discovery. Hence the dream of the ladder: Jacob finds, in his solitude, who he is meant to be. And when he returns, he will make the final crossing alone -- again.
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.
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