Hazak Hazak Vnithazek

When we finish reading a book of the Torah, as we did a couple weeks ago, we call out "Be strong, be strong, and may we be strengthened."  In the last few weeks, that strength has really been needed. The Iran Deal has raised as many concerns as it hopes to ameliorate.  Jewish and Muslim terrorism in Israel and its neighborhood have created tensions within the fabric of Israeli society.

What is our source of strength when times are challenging.  For me, the combination of prayer and action are the solution to most ills.  Looking at our tradition, we can find strength, and models of those who were also struggling.  Psalm 121 provides one such example.

Here Neshama Carlebach sings her version of her father's beautiful Esa Einai. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r34Kddcybg4&index=4&list=PLUW8AINhm3A_nJ7J4azRHemghr9u0fquS

ESA EINAI	I WILL LIFT UP MY EYES
Esa einai el heharim, me'ayin me'ayin yavo ezri Esa einai el heharim, me'ayin me'ayin yavo ezri Ezri me'im Hashem, Oseh shamayim va'aretz Ezri me'im Hashem, Oseh shamayim va'aretz	I will lift up my eyes to the mountains. From where does my help come? I will lift up my eyes to the mountains. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Lyrics from http://www.hebrewsongs.com/song-esaeinai.htm

From the action side, we must be cognizant of our choices. Are we working towards solutions?  Are we making the world better?  As we look to Israel and pray that it demonstrates Jewish values of love and peace, let us consider where we donate.  Do we send money to supporters of peace or those who cry for violence?  Do we support religious institutions that match our values?  Below are three that do.

Think about it:

http://www.irac.org/

http://www.conservativeyeshiva.org/

https://masorti.org/