Feeding the hungry — in solidarity and engaging with love
Open Door Community, Atlanta, Georgia
Yom Kippur eve, we chant the Kol Nidre prayer. And, on Yom Kippur, the Prophet Isaiah's message cries:
Is not this the fast that I desire? says God. To let the oppressed go free, and to untie the chains of the slave?At Beit Daniel, the Progressive/Reform synagogue in Tel Aviv, I joined in the services with my childhood friend Elana. Rabbi Galia Sadan explained that the prophet is reminding us to ensure that people have not only material basics but spiritual connection, too. And, we do this by observing and listening, carefully.
— Isaiah 57:14 - 58:14
Ask yourself —
- Whether or not you fast today, are you taking responsibility — giving the hungry not just bread but your time and attention?
- Which "oppressed" people is Isaiah talking about? Many resemble you in appearance, political views, educational levels, and privileges. Others differ in circumstance, requirements, gifts, and challenges — among them, prisoners, patients, despised, poor, and homeless.
- In my blog post, July 4, 2006, Atlanta, GA, meet an intentional community that attempts to heed the Prophet Isaiah from the perspective and theology of other traditions and spiritual guides.
My related posts
- Yom Kippur and the fragility of life
- Yom Kippur: "Tamar, Why do Jewish people vote Democratic?"
- Yom Kippur thoughts: Our choices do matter
1 comment:
You exemplify the concept of "giving the hungry not just bread but your full attention." Those hungry for food.. and those hungry for emotional support.
And thanks for sharing a link to my story about the amazing couple.
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