This week, we see Moses stand on holy ground as he watches a bush burn unconsumed. The bush is a signal, a clarion call to Moses to open his eyes to what is most important- freedom, justice, and creating change for the good of all.
Two days ago,after domestic terrorists tried to take over the Capital,with the support of our President, many Congresspeople declared that Capital Hill was sacred ground. Their language reminded me of the Burning Bush. I don't believe that the Capital building is holy, but I do consider what it stands for to be sacred--rule of law, democracy, and our ability to govern ourselves. Congress does not always do its job to protect and defend the rights of all Americans, but it is still one of our best hopes for democracy.
When the Senators and Representatives stand in their chambers, I hope their eyes are opened as Moses' were- to the need for justice, honesty, empathy for the suffering, and the desire to dedicate ones life to the holy task of caring for others.
I conclude my thoughts today with a poem by Rabbi Danielle Upbin, called,
A New Prayer for Our Country/ A Prayer for Our New Country:
On Beginning the Book of Exodus
We the people, One nation under God, turn to You, our Protector, our Rock and Redeemer.
Guide us through the Exile of what this nation has become.
A nation we no longer recognize - a time of darkness, plague, death and distortion.
Salvage Truth, who has become a stifled mute, drowning offshore in the shadows of Lady Liberty’s torch.
God of our Ancestors, You once answered the agonized cry of an enslaved people,
writhing under the hardship of tortuous taskmasters.
You remembered them, performed miracles for them, and raised them up to be Your people.
God who pierced through history with a Strong Hand and an Outstretched Arm, remember us.
Bless us with Your Grace and saving power.
Amidst the tumult of a teetering democracy, we cry out now.
From the horror that is a land of fear, dividing our country, we ask: Ad matai? How much suffering is enough?
This, too, is a prayer.
We, who had been standing on the precipice of a new beginning, a vaccine of hope,
ask that You see us through to a life of peace, healing and reconciliation for all.
Ha’Makom - God of this Place and of all Places,
Our America is also Holy Ground.
We have turned to see, but the fire is raging and consuming.
Deliver us on Eagle’s wings, the symbol of this great Nation.
Hineni. We are ready.
God above, protect our democracy and our ideals, shelter our institutions ...and our nation’s leaders.
Free us, save us, redeem us, deliver us, and bring us to safety. Amen.
While you prepare for Shabbat, I invite you to enjoy this moving video: We Rise
