By: Susan Moger

In Parshah Shemot, we learn about Moses and the burning bush, which is a significant event in the life of Moses and the beginning of his mission to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. When Moses sees the burning bush, he approaches it and hears the voice of G-d calling out to him. G-d instructs Moses to go to Pharoah and demand the release of the Israelites.

This encounter with the burning bush teaches us several important lessons. Firstly, it demonstrates that G-d can reveal Himself through ordinary objects or situations. The burning bush was not consumed by fire, symbolizing the eternal nature of G-d’s presence. This reminds us that even in our everyday lives, we should be open to recognizing and experiencing the Divine.

Secondly, the burning bush serves as a reminder of the importance of humility. Despite being raised in the palace of Pharoah, Moses remains humble and hesitant to accept his role as a leader. G-d reassures Moses that He will be with him every step of the way, emphasizing the need for trust and reliance on G-d’s guidance.

Additionally, the signs and miracles performed by Moses in front of Pharoah are also discussed in Parshat Shemot. These signs such as turning his staff into a snake and causing his hand to become leprous, demonstrate G-d’s power and authority. They serve as a means to convince Pharoah to let the Israelites go and highlight the ongoing struggle between G=d and Pharoah’s hardened heart.

Overall, Parshat Shemot teaches us about the significance of recognizing G-d’s presence in our lives, the importance of humility, and the power of divine signs and miracles. It encourages us to have faith in G-d’s guidance and to stand up against oppression and injustice, which is a theme of being an Upstander not a bystander. The Dallas Holocaust Museum has being an upstander as a message they convey quite well, to do something when seeing an injustice.

There was a beautiful and unusual sunset last night with a vibrant red color. I wondered if the unusual colors were a sign. If it was a sign, what does it mean, and what does it mean for me personally. How can I interpret it? The answer is that I will know in time if it was a sign for me and what will change in my life and for the others who saw the sunset.

Let’s continue to pray for peace in The Ukraine and in Israel.