Chag Pesach sameach. Hebrew for Happy Passover holiday.
When I was a young boy I remember seeing news reports regarding Israel. Whether the reports were about the U.S. sending aid, military supplies, or just giving supporting political words the action always seemed to be in the affirmative. The news story itself, however, didn’t always reflect this positive tone and I wondered why we were so supportive of Israel and the Jewish people.
The short answer is the Torah or the first five books of the Holy Bible. This includes Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. We share the basis from which our faith exists. Our moral bearing is grounded in the same books of the Bible. Without which we gain no wisdom and become susceptible to the pitfalls of the secular world. We are forever linked through this common bond. You can see this unbreakable bond in many of our founding documents, symbols, and history. One example can be found on the liberty bell, “Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” This comes directly from Leviticus 25:10. Another example can be found in the text of the fourth amendment of our constitution, “The right of people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable search and seizures, shall not be violated…” This is directly related to Deuteronomy 24:10-11, “When you make a loan of any kind to your neighbor, do not go into their house to get what is offered to you as a pledge. Stay outside and let the neighbor to whom you are making the loan bring the pledge out to you.”
The history and bond between our religions is vast and must be maintained if both are to survive and goodness is to prevail.
During this Passover season I hope you reflect on this unique relationship we share with Israel and the Jewish people. Reflect on the connection between God and His chosen people. Reflect on this connection to all the good that has come to the west and the world because of it. Reflect, be grateful, and give praise to God for all that He has given.
In Christ,
Eric Foster
Council President