VOLUME 20, ISSUE 24 FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2013 / 8 SIVAN 5773
CANDLE LIGHTING: 7:46 P.M. SHABBAT ENDS: 8:57 PM (CHICAGO)
TORAH PORTION: NASO (NUMBERS 4:21 – 7:89)
This week’s CTN Shabbat Fax is dedicated by Heshy & Debbie Wengrow, in memory of Heshy’s father, Avraham Dov ben Yitzchak Menachem HaKohain Wengrow z”l, on the occasion of his 26th yahrzeit. May the Jewish inspiration and growth through this week’s Shabbat Fax be a merit for his neshama (soul).
1. May G-d bless you and protect you. May G-d shine His countenance upon you and be gracious to you. May G-d lift up His face toward you and grant you peace. (6:24 -26)
For centuries, Jewish parents have used these words to bless their children.
Each and every Shabbat.
‘May G-d bless you.
And protect you.’
… Because it’s not enough to be blessed. We also need protection.
And in fact, sometimes we need protection from the blessing itself!
… Think about it. We want everything good for our children.
But all good things come with a challenge.
Like, we want them to be comfortable. To have financial security.
… But will they get so comfortable, that they forget about the needs of others?
And we want them to be accepted in society. Not to be treated differently because they’re
Jewish.
But freedom and opportunities bring a major challenge.
… Will their Jewish identity remain strong? Will they remain proud, knowledgeable and involved
Jews?
And we want them to enjoy life.
… But will they appreciate all the wonderful things they have?
Or will they take them for granted?
… So we ask for blessings.
But we also ask for protection.
That they have the strength to live up to the challenges.
And that way be truly blessed.
§ We all wish the best for our children. And Judaism gives us powerful tools to help make
those blessings happen.
… Jewish traditions. Like having a pushka – charity box – in our home.
It trains our children to give Tzedakah.
We can encourage them to put in a few cents every time they get some money.
This week’s CTN Shabbat Fax is dedicated by Heshy & Debbie Wengrow, in memory
of Heshy’s father, Avraham Dov ben Yitzchak Menachem HaKohain Wengrow z”l, on
the occasion of his 26th yahrzeit. May the Jewish inspiration and growth through this
week’s’ Shabbat Fax be a merit for his neshama (soul).
It could be from their allowance. Birthday presents. Or an after-school job.
They’ll learn something very important:
That money comes with a responsibility.
To use it to help others.
… And there’s having a Shabbat meal as a family.
It tells them something about our values.
That as busy as life is, we have to make time for the important things.
Like family. Our heritage. And G-d.
STORY OF THE WEEK
Nervously, the man approached Baron Rothschild for a significant loan.
‘It would be my pleasure – but you must have a co-signer who will guarantee payment.’
The man was quiet. Finally, he said: ‘I can’t think of anyone. In fact, the only one who may trust
me is the Almighty Himself.’
‘Very well. That name will be fine!’ Rothschild drew up a note and wrote: Endorsed by the
Ruler of the world. The man signed it and received the money.
Six months later, the thankful borrower came to repay the loan. The Baron refused to take the money.
He smiled and said: ‘The loan has already been paid by the co-signer.’
FROM THE RABBIS OF THE TALMUD
“Every man has three names.
One that his father and mother called him.
One that his friends call him.
And one, the name he acquires for himself.