Truths You Can Use

One of the Bible’s most resounding commandments is “do not stand idly by while your neighbor bleeds.” I’ve been thinking a lot about this verse lately. I’ve thought about it in the context of gun violence. But it’s also challenged me on a deeper level. Does anyone care about the bloodshed happening in Syria?  …

Lance Armstrong’s confession to Oprah Winfrey has left many people wondering. Was it genuine? Why did he wait so long? Can those he hurt forgive him? Will he ever compete again? Each of us probably has differing responses to these questions. As a member of the clergy, what interests me is two-fold. Why did Lance…

  Friends, I had a fabulous conversation on Fox News with my friend Father Jonathan Morris. We touched on not only on gun violence, but on the role of God and religion in politics. I thought you might enjoy the clip. Articles coming soon on Lance Armstrong and forgiveness. All the best, Evan Rabbi Moffic…

We have become a deeply polarized nations, with ideology trumping practicality at every turn. We saw this in the fiscal cliff debate. We are seeing it in the gun control battle. Does politics have to be this divisive? Can it fulfill Aristotle’s ancient ideal of lifting up our national conversation and morale, rather than weakening…

Life rains down on all of us. We experience loss, sadness, frustration, difficult times, goals missed, dreams disappointed. We go through broken relationships, betrayals, trust misplaced, loved ones hurt. Yet, while the rain can drown us, it can also strengthen us. While it can overwhelm, it can also energize. What makes the difference is the…

President Bill Clinton’s receiving Father of the Year award has raised some eyebrows. We all probably have different views of the propriety of the award. Still, we can use it as a spark to discuss what we can learn from our parents. Sometimes we learn what to do along with what not to do. I…

Delivering a eulogy for a loved one takes great  empathy and maturity. I’ve been moved by many I have heard. Often, however, I wonder what impact the words expressed would have had on the person being remembered. Did they ever have the opportunity to know what their loved ones felt? Did they appreciate the contributions…

One of the great heroes of the bible is a man named Caleb. During the forty years of wandering in the desert, he remains confident in God’s promise even  as others falter. His loyalty and commitment do not waver. It is any surprise, therefore, that the Hebrew word for our most loyal animal is almost…

“Keep giving them you, until you is what they want.” A mentor once advised me that a good rabbi needs a strong ego. Clergy can become the target of people’s frustration with God, life and the inevitable experiences of pain and suffering. Criticism is inevitable. While I am fortunate to serve a loving and supportive…

Happy New Year! This list captures what readers found particularly moving over the year and can help us gain perspective on 2012. It is somewhat subjective and incomplete, since this blog did not formally start until June, and a few pieces have been moved to other parts of the Beliefnet site. Yet, it is a snapshot…

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