Israel. I just returned from traveling for 10 days to Israel with 175 men and women from across the Houston Jewish community. The Houston Jewish Federation Mission 2009 began on February 22nd with our journey to Israel, that took us north to the Golan Heights, south to Jerusalem, and for some, all the way to Masada and Sderot.
Israel is a study in contrasts. We observed the results of modern technologies that turned swamps into thriving fields, and small northern kibbutzim into prosperous industrial settings. And, we learned about the ancient city of Jerusalem where Temple remnants are excavated and the street stones where Hillel probably once walked nearly 2000 years ago can be seen.
Between the ancient and the modern, we absorbed the sights, smells, tastes, and culture of Israel. The beauty of the country cannot be overstated. The north was already blooming in spring colors and despite the country’s drought the hillsides were green and lush. The smells of the Old City mixed with the air that blew in with cold winter rains. The aromas in the markets and streets were uniquely Middle Eastern and far from southeast Texas. The foods were pleasantly Israeli. Familiar falafel was joined with fresh salads, vegetables and meats. Mealtime was sometimes rushed but never without plenty to eat.
The culture of Israel is found deeply rooted in its people. We’re all Jewish, but the Israeli perspective gives real substance to the Torah texts we study, and to the tough world we sometimes only read about in the newspaper. They live Torah everyday. “Choose Life!” is not just a verse in Deuteronomy; it’s a duty. Jerusalem is not just the City of David; it’s the heart and soul of Jewish life, then and now.
Israeli youth moved us deeply. We recognized the extraordinary responsibilities they carry on their shoulders from the tender age of 18 when they join the military service. We met these brave young men and women at Tel Nof, an air force base outside Tel Aviv. They shared their remarkable stories of service to Israel, and dedication to the purpose of life in Israel. As a treat to them, Houston Federation provided them with a live concert featuring the winner of Israel’s version of our “American Idol.” The 100 or so Israeli service men and women screamed with delight as Harel took the stage and rocked the house for more than an hour.
Imagine 175 people in six tour buses making their way through Israel. While laughing, listening, eating, and sharing, there was never a dull moment and only numerous opportunities to discover new reasons to say, “Baruch Atah, Adonai, Eloheinu melech haolam, she-asah-nee Yisrael,” Praised are You, God, Ruler of the Universe, who has made me a Jew.
If you have been to Israel once or twice or ten times, then you know what I’m talking about and you can recall the feelings I’m trying to share. If you’ve never been to Israel, then you must go. The Houston Jewish Federation makes the journey a trip of a lifetime. I encourage you to look for the next trip they schedule or for the journey we will schedule to make as a congregation. Either way, let’s try to make real the promise we often make when we say, “Next Year in Jerusalem!”
From my desk to yours, it’s good to be home. Shabbat Shalom.
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