SHABBAT MESSAGE: MARCH 16, 2024
Brothers and sisters in Yahushua,
Embracing Torah: The Path to Tzedakah
Introduction
Today, we continue our journey in the light with a focus on a fundamental concept in our faith: Tzedakah. This term, deeply rooted in our Paleo-Hebrew heritage, is often translated as charity. However, it encompasses much more, including love, justice, and righteousness. As it is written:
“Tzedakah exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34, CJB)
This verse encapsulates our theme today, reminding us of the exalted position that Tzedakah holds in our faith and our lives.
Understanding Tzedakah
In the Torah, Tzedakah is more than an act of charity; it’s a moral obligation, a duty to God and our fellow humans. It’s about justice and righteousness, about ensuring everyone in our community is treated fairly and has their needs met.
"Give, and gifts will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure out will be used to measure back to you.” (Luke 6:38, CJB)
This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of Tzedakah. It’s not just about giving; it’s about giving generously, giving with a joyful heart. It’s about creating a cycle of giving, where the more we give, the more we receive.
Tzedakah: A Path to Shalom
Tzedakah is a path to Shalom, a way to create peace and harmony in our community. When we practice Tzedakah, we’re not just giving to those in need; we’re helping to build a world where everyone has enough, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
“In this way, let your light shine before people, so that they may see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, CJB)
This verse reminds us that our acts of Tzedakah are a reflection of our faith. They are a way for us to shine our light, to show the love of God to others. And in doing so, we bring ourselves and our community closer to Shalom.
The Role of Torah in Tzedakah
The Torah guides us on how to practice Tzedakah. It teaches us to give generously and joyfully, to give without expecting anything in return, to give in a way that respects the dignity of the recipient.
“Rather, you must open your hand and lend him enough to meet his need and enable him to obtain what he wants.” (Deuteronomy 15:8, CJB)
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving in a way that respects the dignity of the recipient. It’s not just about meeting their immediate needs; it’s about empowering them, enabling them to obtain what they want. This is the essence of Tzedakah as taught in the Torah.
Tzedakah in Practice
Practicing Tzedakah can take many forms. It can be giving money to those in need, but it can also be giving time, skills, or resources. It can be volunteering at a local charity, helping a neighbor, or advocating for justice and equality.
“If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother.” (Deuteronomy 15:7, CJB)
This verse reminds us of our duty to help our brothers and sisters in need. It calls us to be openhearted and generous, to practice Tzedakah in all aspects of our lives.
Conclusion
As we walk in the light, pursuing Shalom, let us embrace the teachings of the Torah and the practice of Tzedakah. Let us strive to create a community of love, justice, and righteousness, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. In doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations to God and our fellow humans, but we also bring ourselves closer to the peace and harmony that is Shalom.
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Shalom!