Voices of WRJ: Tzav

by Becky Markowitz Our Torah portion this week, Tzav from Leviticus, presents challenges to our modern-day thinking as it discusses ritual rules, offerings, and sacrifices; but, I see it as a very simple and profound lesson. Instead of sacrifices or goods, we are to bring or offer the very best of ourselves to God and in doing so we make the world better. Rituals offer us a way to bring meaning to our lives and carry on traditions that have been passed to us and create ones to pass onto future generations. It also reminds us to be thankful and not take for granted many things in our daily lives. Not only does this make sense, but it makes us responsible for our actions and reminds us that we control more than we sometimes think. Women have always been leaders and were key and vital members in the biblical community – even though the Torah did not recognize them by name. Today WRJ stands proudly as women leaders in North America, Israel, and all around the world. We lead the way in prayer, support of community, civil rights, gay rights, youth, and so much more. Women get things done. They enhance the home, the bimah, the board room, and every room. We need to proudly and enthusiastically ask women to become part of our WRJ family so they can continue the work that we are doing. As our tagline states – 'Stronger Together!' Sisterhood and WRJ give us the chance to share the very best of ourselves with each other and the world. We are able to live through our actions the very commandments of this Torah portion. I am so thankful for the blessings that my connection with sisterhood and WRJ have given me. I am never without a friend, a hug, a mentor, a supporter, a listener, someone who really cares. For many of us the kitchen is a constant part of our daily lives, a place to gather; eating together is a blessing of food, community, and joining together. Many of our blessings and rituals involve things we take for granted: waking up each day, our bodies, the ability to think, to eat, to pray, our children, our health. These rituals and blessings connect us to God and community. Whenever I face tough decisions or ponder whether I can complete a task I ask myself – “what is the best way to handle this?” – faith helps. It gives us a measuring stick and challenges us to act in a certain way. As you light the candles, taste the challah, and take a sip of wine, remember to be thankful, to take time to realize that the blessings that surround us are abundant and should not be taken for granted. Look at what you do have, not at what you don’t. Each one of has great power to do wonderful things: to empower others, to listen, to give a hug, to hold out a hand, to be there. This Shabbat, remember that the gifts we bring to God—the best of ourselves—are the things that matter most. Becky Markowitz is the WRJ Atlantic District President and a proud member of Women of Shir Ami in Newtown, PA. She is a congregational and sisterhood past president. She is a full-time Realtor, mother of two grown sons and is passionate about WRJ.