Parashat Nasso 5769--Adult B'nei Mitzvah

In this week’s Torah portion, Parashat Nasso, we read the ancient words of blessing, the Priestly Benediction, creatively translated as:

The Eternal One spoke to Moses, “Speak to Aaron and his sons, ‘Thus shall you bless the people of Israel. Say to them,

May God bless you and keep you!

May God’s countenance shine up you and be gracious with you!

May God’s light shine upon you and grant you peace!'

Thus they shall link My name with the people of Israel, and I will bless them" (Numbers 6:22-27).

These words, which we utter at moments of celebration and on special holy days, provide us with a deep mystery of meaning. And while ancient commentators, like Rashi, read into this blessing promise of material wealth, spiritual fulfillment, and Divine favor, I see no such grand promises in the words. In my humble estimation, these ancient words of blessing do not speak of great rewards, enlightenment, or grandiose plans. They speak of something much more foundational, that of presence.

Any parent, pet owner, friend, child, gardener, employee, or spouse knows that presence is one of the most important and foundational gifts we can give to another person, and one of the most important gifts we can receive. Individuals thrive when they are given the blessing of another’s care, compassion, and availability. We know this to be true: No matter what life brings us what we need most is someone there with us. We need companions on our journeys.

In this week’s parashah, we are promised nothing more and nothing less than Divine Presence. Come what may, we are told, Adonai will be with us. In moments of joy and celebration, we can’t make false promises—promises of wealth, enlightenment, contentment, or good luck. Life hands us unexpected and unwelcome presents sometimes. What we can promise is presence. As God’s partners in the ongoing work of creation, we can understand that this Divine Promise is manifest in our own ability to be present for one another.

This coming Shabbat, sixteen extraordinary TBS congregants will be called to the Torah for the first time as adult b’nei mitzvah. This group and I have been studying together for the past two years. Beyond their growing competency in Hebrew and their joys of Jewish learning, they have come to understand the gift of being present. They have, in the past two years, formed a learning community, they have celebrated with one another, and they have supported one another. How fitting that they will read these words aloud to our community this Shabbat. I invite you to join us for this sacred occasion.

Beyond that, I invite you hear Torah anew this Shabbat. I invite you to consider where your presence is needed in this world, and then to offer it up. May you be blessed with divine light shining in your life, and may you bless others with your light in their.