It seems like all our emotions are really on edge, at intensities we've never known before. And the shifts happen so quickly: the deep mourning for those murdered, gratitude for the miracle of 5 buses that didn't explode because a massive attack failed, thank God, and the shock at the incomprehensible cruelty and manipulation of the enemy who won't return Shiri Bibas's body...
This upcoming Shabbat is called "Shabbat Mevarchim." That's what we call the Shabbat before the new month. In all synagogues worldwide, on this Shabbat morning we bless the new month of Adar, which will begin next week. We pray for a month of blessing, of peace, of Torah, of honor.
The month of Adar that begins next week symbolizes joy - joy that comes after great trouble. The enemy Haman (a descendant of Amalek) wants to destroy us all. Through our proper conduct - God turns everything for the good. This is a month that calls us to return to ourselves, to our identity, and through this to merit joy and success.
And after so many headlines this week, here's the real headline - Shabbat is coming. Shabbat Shalom.
