We find a double portion this week as we conclude the Book of Numbers. After an overview of the content in these portions, we look closely at a fear of Moses concerning the tribes of Reuben and Gad, a fear that manifests after the tribes are settled in the Promised Land. How is a potential civil war avoided? Who stands up and displays the maturity to hear the voice of the opposition? Finally, we do we learn from this, and how can it be applied to life today? Give a listen!
Torah portion Pinchas opens with the unfolding of the tragic plan of Balaam. Then, in an instant, one who had no position or authority stands and executes judgment upon a shameful act. In this portion we consider two leader, one who was given a leadership position that he was not entitled to, the second was prepared for leadership over many years, yet, he still had to be set in leadership before the eyes of the congregation in order to calm their fears. There is much to unpack in this episode, but in this unpacking, we discover where we fit in the Lord’s plan for today. Give a listen!
The scheme of Balak: how to destroy the children of Israel? Summon a prophet to curse them! Balaam was a prophet from the nations. The rabbis suggest the Balaam could have revealed the God of Israel to the nations, but he decided to use his prophetic gift for personal gain. What do we learn from Balak’s view of Israel? How does this portion speak into our modern lives? We consider this, and much more in this episode of Messiah in Life! Give a listen!
the mountain mensch 