In this week’s Torah portion, Abraham's servant searches for a wife for Isaac. We read of his encounter with Rebecca at the well three times: as the servant is praying, as it happens, and as the servant recounts the tale to Rebecca’s family. Why is this story told three times? The sages tell us that sometimes, more can be learned from the conversation of the patriarchs and matriarchs than from the depths of the later writings of the Torah.

Though the details of the story may seem mundane, they indicate who the patriarchs are and what they will become. Life is found in these moments and details. Every moment counts, even those spent waiting for someone to draw water. Click here to watch on YouTube.

The roots of history’s oldest rivalry are found in the week’s Torah portion! This story begins with Sarah who believes that Abraham’s line will continue through her maid, Hagar. Hagar quickly turns to Sarah with scorn, an attitude she passes onto her son Ishmael, who in turn scorns his brother Isaac. Laughter, scorn, and cynicism are woven throughout this story, but so are God’s mercy and promise. Shabbat Shalom! Click here to watch on YouTube.

This week we start the journey of Abraham as he is called by God to “Go forth”. Abraham is often compared to Noah. At the beginning of last week’s portion, Noah was introduced as a righteous man. But what about Abraham’s background? Who was he? The Midrash provides details for the early life of Abraham before he is called forth.

One commentary explains that Abraham has no background story because the call he heard from God wasn’t personal. God called on the entire world to go forth! But only Abraham heeded the call and went into the unknown. Like Abraham, you shouldn’t be afraid to be different! God’s call isn’t just for a personal journey, but to share His light with others. Shabbat Shalom

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