Evergreen

Understanding God's presence in disease means viewing illness not as a punishment, but as an opportunity to treat others as created in the image of God.

Living together as a community means learning to communicate effectively and respectfully.

Despite the fear and exhaustion of journeying from a dark, narrow place, we must remember to accompany our arrivals with song and joy.

Reacting to Moses and Aaron's responses to the deaths of Nadav and Avihu provides us with an opportunity to examine our own responses to tragedy.

Although we can attempt to understand the deaths of Nadav and Avihu, we are ultimately limited and often feel powerless in the face of God.

After the dedication of the Tabernacle and the ordination of the priests, two of Aaron's sons bring a strange fire before God and are consumed by fire; God then instructs Moses and Aaron regarding which animals may be eaten.

The priestly prohibition against excessive drinking reminds us to support those in our community challenged by alcoholism.

Several commentators discuss the relationship of the elders to the priests, the people, Moses and God.

The prohibition against leavened bread for most Temple grain offerings imbues the Temple with the spirit of freedom all year round.

Recognizing our fallibility can lead us to compassion and empathy for our fellow humans, and bring us closer to God and others.