See! Re’eih! The Torah portion begins with this word. It says, “See, this day I set before you blessing and curse.” The word “re’eih” means “see”, but can we really see blessings and curses? We can’t see them literally, but we can see them when we’re aware of them with our senses. You and I can attend a wedding and “see” the blessing of marriage and love. We can observe the aftermath of a natural disaster and “see” the misfortune on the ground and in the eyes of the people who are struggling.

            Our Judaism expects us to live with our senses awakened to life’s goodness and challenges, and also to its possibilities. Our senses are awakened when we hear Jewish music in the sanctuary or chapel, or when family talks and laughs around the holiday table; and when we touch the Torah to pass it to our children at their bar or bat mitzvah, or when we hold a grandchild from the first time; and when the house smells of holiday aromas from traditional foods in the kitchen.

            As summer gives way to school and familiar routines, I want to invite you to see, feel and smell something extraordinary. At Beth Israel, our renovations and remodeling are done. The massive infrastructure that needed to be replaced after 40 years since Beth Israel moved to North Braeswood is done, and the cosmetic improvements that had to be made are also done.

• In the sanctuary, you’ll see a beautiful new podium and lower bemah that adds elegance to our worship space and provides an appropriate place from which to lead worship in a more intimate manner.
• In the social hall you’ll find clean walls and new carpet where we’ll gather for Oneg Shabbat, and many occasions in the life of your family over the years.
• In the Karff and Barnston hallways, new wall coverings finish the remodeling with a fresh appearance.
• Ladin Dining Room is a new and exquisite setting for your family gathering on Shabbat or special occasion.
• On walls and ceilings, you’ll also find signage and emergency lighting which entitles us to an occupancy certificate. We are in compliance with all city codes. 

            Many fine touches complete the look and feel to make Beth Israel a comfortable and welcoming congregation where families and friends can gather for worship, study and community. If you see anything that is out of place, be a good steward of your congregation and bring it to someone’s attention. We all want to preserve the work of many hands and hearts that made it possible to enjoy our synagogue building now and for many years to come.

            Re’eh, see! It’s a joy to experience and sense the blessings we have at Beth Israel. Let’s fill the spaces, celebrate our joys and comfort each other in our sorrows in our sacred spaces.

            From my family to yours, Shabbat Shalom.

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