Roots of Faith

Shalom!

I wanted to take some time this morning to post a note on my blog to explain a situation that is before me.

There is a quote that has been on my mind of late from “Pirket Avoth – the Sayings of the Fathers“.
“Rabban Gamliel, the son of Rabbi Judah HaNassi, says; ‘Torah study is good together with an occupation, for the exertion of them both makes sin forgotten. All Torah study that is not joined with work will cease in the end, and leads to sin.‘”

As many of you know, I am a mid-level manager for a Paper business in addition to my responsibilities as a husband and father and as a Bible teacher.

During these tough economic times many people are without work and I think of this often. I, on the other hand have been blessed with a good and stable job and a lot of responsibility. As one wisely put it, “To whom much is given, much is required.” My job is secure, but these times have placed a strain over the past few months on my department. Thankfully things are looking up, but in order to come through these times successfully, my staff is having to work some incredibly demanding hours of work. Our team is working extra hours to ensure that our employees are in the best position to gain business. I have learned through years of leadership experience in military and civilian life that people respond when leaders lead by example. So I scheduled myself on nights (Saturday – Thursday – off on the Sabbath) to demonstrate my commitment to our team. I intend to do this for the next several weeks as we put some things in place.

As a result of this schedule, the audio teachings during the month of February will be “touch and go”. I thought that I could teach tonight despite my hectic work schedule, but honestly am too tired to teach tonight. I worked all night last night and will be working again tonight. I had planned on teaching and then going to work after my class. I am hopeful that next week I will be able to teach, but will play things by ear and communicate the class schedule as we get closer.

It is interesting to note that the Torah reading this week in the Annual Cycle is Yitro. This reading from the book of Exodus has Yitro’s (Jethro’s) counsel to Moses regarding delegation lest he wear out! He also says that it “this thing” is not good. Talk about a timely message for me! I plan to drink these words in this week. I also intend to write some of my thoughts on the Torah Portion this week, as this reading contains the 10 words (10 Commandments) – or Testimony.

My true passion is in learning, teaching and seeking to live according to the principles of the Hebrew Bible. At this time I am taking the principles to my daily life – seeking to tie Torah study with an occupation.

I assure you that this is only temporary and as soon as I can get back to the pulpit I will do so – perhaps as early as next weekend. I just wanted to be open with all of you. I would ask that you communicate this message far and wide to those who have faithfully listened to the teachings so that they understand what is going on. I accept no salary from the congregation or for my teaching and have therefore always worked hard to support my family through other means. Many people depend on me to lead effectively. I pray that you understand.

Shalom to all of you and I will be communicating the status as soon as I know something new.