In our Torah portion this week we not only finish reading the book of Leviticus but complete the construction of Mishkan, the portable tabernacle that the Jews carried with them as they wandered through the desert. The construction of the Mishkan was a difficult endeavor. The past few Torah portions outline with tremendous detail all of the labor and hard work that went into creating a beautiful house for God, a place in which the entire community would be able to gather together, to worship together, and celebrate with one another. For me, one of the most beautiful pieces of the project was that no one who participated or donated did so out of obligation. The Torah tells us that everyone who participated did so because "Nadav B'Libam." That everyone that contributed to the construction of the tabernacle, did so because their heart was moved to participate.
I can't help but draw a parallel to our community, and our Song and Soul Gala memorial concert this weekend with Cantor Hanan Lieberman. The entire community has come together to celebrate a beautiful weekend. I am encouraged that so many people have stepped up to contribute and volunteer in many different ways, out of the kindness of their hearts, ensuring that this weekend could be successful on a variety of levels. I especially want to thank our honorary chairs, Rabbi Len and Judy Rosenthal, as well as our Administrative Director Lori Kurtz and our Program director Beth Klareich, for leading all of us on this endeavor.
Anyone who may still feel "Nadav B'LiBam" or moved in their hearts is still welcome to contribute. Tickets to our Gala concert will be available at the door, as well as opportunity drawing tickets. But the work is done, and now over the course of this weekend, we all have the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the fruits of all of our labor.
I look forward to seeing many of you over the course of the weekend, and want to wish you and your families a Shabbat Shalom.
Rabbi Josh Dorsch
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