CANTOR’S CORNER

Cantor Eyal Bitton shares a few thoughts on prayer and the parasha of the week.

2023-06-17 Parashat Shlach Lecha

The “Mi Sheberach” prayer for healing is a moment when we worry about our loved ones who are ill or facing other challenges. There are times when our loved ones’ health instill feelings of fear and uncertainty. 

There are other challenges in our lives that bring about these feelings. We find ourselves in times of economic instability, world conflicts, and tragic incidents, like horrific shootings in elementary schools. In all these situations, we need to remember that resilience is an essential quality that can help us encounter and manage, if not overcome, fear and adversity.

Resilience is not a trait that we are just born with, it’s something that can be developed and strengthened over time. We can cultivate resilience by focusing on what remains in our control. There’s a movement in modern American Judaism that values the attempt to make a difference in this world. Making a difference in the world begins with ourselves. Finding a sense of purpose and meaning in our own lives can create a sense of fulfillment and motivation that can sustain us even in tough times.

Additionally, seeking being engaged in community is crucial. Community, in addition to family, can provide us with the support we need. The “Mi Sheberach” prayer reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that we can draw strength from others. Whether it is through prayer, connecting with loved ones, or seeking professional help, we can find the support we need to develop resilience and overcome fear.

In Parashat Shlach Lecha (Numbers 13-14), spies are sent to scout out the land of Canaan. Most of them return with a negative report, causing the Israelites to fear and doubt God’s ability to deliver them. As a result, they refuse to enter the land, even though it was promised to them by God. Fear and lack of faith can prevent us from reaching our potential. But with resilience, we can overcome even the most difficult challenges and thrive in the face of adversity. So let us consider what in our lives are under our control, let us be determined to find our sense of purpose, and to seek support from our community. By doing so, we can develop the resilience we need to face the uncertainties of life with courage and strength.