Rabbi Lyon’s Blog

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Mending Broken Hearts

March 6, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I’m home from a profound and emotional trip to Israel. From Monday to Thursday, February 26-29, this whirlwind trip was filled with intensity

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On My Way to Israel

February 21, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On February 25th, I’ll board a familiar flight to Israel under unfamiliar circumstances. Rather than accompany first-timers to Israel for a life-changing experience,

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For the Love of Peace

February 14, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Since October 7th, we have tuned in to news that is difficult to watch, hear, and know. War is horrible and terror is

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A Song and a Prayer

January 31, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I grew up in a house where fluent Yiddish wasn’t spoken, but Yiddish words and expressions were used to say what couldn’t be

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War and Peace

January 24, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Torah portion called Beshallach (Exodus 13:17ff) includes the “Song of the Sea,” in Hebrew Shirat Hayam (Exodus 15ff). It’s more than a

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Diasporism

January 17, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

If you can pronounce it, you’ll know that the root of “diasporism” is “diaspora.” By definition, it’s any place where Jews made their

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Justice and Compassion

January 10, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The last verses of Torah exalt Moses: Never again did there arise in Israel a prophet like Moses whom God singled out (Deuteronomy

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Be Strong and of Good Courage

January 2, 2024

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In a paper calendar book, I turned the page to find the secular New Year 2024. Accidentally, I took hold of too many

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Rebuilding their Jewish Homes

December 12, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Chanukah is ending but not without kindling in us what we need to remember about being Jewish. Lighting the menorah began in history

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Chanukah, O Hanukkah

December 6, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

No matter how it’s spelled, Chanukah is a minor Jewish holiday that means “dedication.” It’s minor, because it’s not a pilgrimage holiday that

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Chanukah Means Dedication

November 29, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

First light, Evening of December 7th Darkness is defeat and light is victory against our oppressors, persecutors, and contemporary antisemites in all their

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Vertical Neighborhoods

November 22, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

After October 7th, I wrote about the fence that my Muslim neighbor and I had to fix between our houses when it broke

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It’s Your Birthright

November 15, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Those who were able to attend the march in Washington, D.C., absorbed and digested more than they could have imagined. Throngs of people,

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A Blue and White Box

November 8, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

That blue and white box is still a vivid image in my memory. I’m sure it is in yours, too. That blue and

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To Learn & To Teach About Israel

November 1, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Don’t drink from a fire hose. It’s not just good sense, it’s also a good metaphor. We can’t extinguish the burning fire of

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From Lawlessness to Peace

October 25, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In last week’s Torah portion, Noah, we read about the flood that came after God saw that the earth was filled with “lawlessness.”

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We Built a Fence and a Friendship

October 19, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In the Middle East, there is no more room for hate and no path to peace through vengeance. Though Houston is more than

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From the Beginning, Again

October 11, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

There is no justification. For the attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists there is no justification. It begins with the fact that in

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Bound as One: A Rally for Israel

October 4, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Sukkot is one of my favorite holidays. It’s part of the season called Z’man Simchateinu, the “Season of our Joy.” Sukkot is purposely

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In the New Year 5784

September 13, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On Rosh Hashanah, we’ll greet each other with wishes for a Happy New Year. It’s a time filled with hopeful expectations that a

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You Are SO Going To Like This

August 30, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

At the end of a long day, I watched “You Are SO Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah,” the new movie starring Adam

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An Ethical Will

August 23, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

During this month of Elul, leading up to the High Holy Days, which begin on the first day of Tishrei, thus the New

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God’s Love

August 16, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Hebrew month of Elul begins this week. You might be asking yourself, “Is that when the weather turns cooler?” It’s unlikely, but

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Seeing is Believing

August 9, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“See, this day I set before you blessing and curse; blessing, if you obey the commandments of the Eternal your God…and curse, if

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Back in the Saddle

August 2, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Summertime is typically quiet, restful, and hot. For me, it was quiet because my schedule focused on family. Lisa and I traveled to

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When Israel Hurts

July 26, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Read all about it. Headlines in Times of Israel report, “Knesset Passes ‘Reasonableness’ Law, First Part of Netanyahu’s Overhaul of Judiciary.” This news

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Technology is Jewish

July 13, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Judaism and technology sound like contrary ideas. Judaism is four thousand years old and technology is modern and cutting-edge. I open the Torah

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Do, Love, Walk

July 6, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

(republished by request) The Prophet Micah said to the Israelites, “Remember what Balak, king of Moab, plotted against You, and how Balaam responded

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Tree of Life

June 22, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On October 27, 2018, Robert Bowers entered the Tree of Life Synagogue and aimed his gun and his rage at worshipers in the

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Power Failures

June 15, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In Torah, even a single word can capture the attention of commentators. In this week’s portion, Korach (Numbers 16), the first verse begins,

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When We Mourn

June 8, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“A season is set for everything, a time for every experience under heaven. A time for being born, and a time for dying”

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Choosing Judaism

May 25, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Late May and early June are times when schools are wrapping up, graduation ceremonies are being held, and families are leaving for summer

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Speak Up for Faith at Home

May 11, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Last week, I spoke at Shabbat services on Friday night about the public display of the Ten Commandments and other Texas Senate bills

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Destinations

May 4, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The weekly Torah portion, Emor (Leviticus 21:1-24:23), describes festival holidays and the Eternal Light (Ner Tamid). One of its other important but often

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On Israel’s 75th Anniversary

April 27, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Apropos of the wonderful weekend we spent with Rabbi Dr. Daniel Gordis, this week’s Torah portion is Acharei Mot-Kedoshim, a double portion. In

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Israel’s 75th, Not Impossible

April 20, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Between Passover and Shavuot, we observe Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), Yom HaZikaron (Israel Memorial Day), and Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day). They’re

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Good Can Lead Us

April 13, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

During Passover and in anticipation of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, I was asked the question, “Where can hate lead us?” It’s easy

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Israel on the Edge

March 30, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Complicated or not (and it is), Israel is the only democratic, western and middle eastern, ancient and modern Jewish homeland. Israel is not

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Prayer Matters

March 23, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

(reprinted by request) This week, we begin the book of Leviticus. It’s not a favorite book among Biblical readers. If it’s any indication,

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When Holy Wears Out

March 9, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Holy things are not just ritual items or Torah scrolls and prayerbooks. Holy things are anything we consider dear to us, or set

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Israel Needs Us

March 2, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Late Monday night, I returned from a conference in Israel with 250 Reform Rabbis. Being in Israel is always eye-opening and inspiring no

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On May Way To Israel

February 16, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On Saturday evening, I’ll be on my way to Israel. Every seven years, the CCAR (Central Conference of American Rabbis) holds its annual

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Boulders of Grief

February 2, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In recent weeks, our congregational family and community have sat on the mourner’s bench too often. I can’t tell you why, because there

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A Lost Wheel Cover

January 26, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Everyday we’re stuffed with news that the world is crumbling and the sky is falling. Thus far there’s no evidence of either even

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The Journey Ahead

January 12, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The beginning of the book of Exodus is like an introduction to our favorite biblical characters. We’re introduced to Moses, Aaron, Miriam, among

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From Offense to Forgiveness

January 6, 2023

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

It’s difficult to believe that the same brothers who left Joseph for dead in a pit without water are now gathering around their

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When we Light the Menorah

December 22, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

It’s one thing to speak about lights in the darkness, but it’s another thing to miss the point of why we light the

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Even a Small Star Shines in the Darkness

December 8, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

A Danish proverb teaches, “Even a small star shines in the darkness.” The first night of Chanukah is Sunday evening, December 18th! In

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Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

December 1, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In 1967, the Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn movie, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” also starring Sydney Poitier and Katherine Houghton, addressed the

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When SNL isn’t Funny

November 17, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Following on Kanye West’s recent antisemitic rants, comedian Dave Chapelle appeared on SNL this past Saturday night. In his opening monologue, which dragged

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America’s Game

November 3, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Baseball is America’s great past-time. Many of us have memories of being at the great ballparks to see our favorite teams. When I

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We Begin with Genesis

October 20, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

When my son, Adam, was about 4 years old, our family was invited to join friends for Second Seder at their home. Just

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Gratitude Becomes Us

October 13, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In Hebrew, “hakarat ha-tov,” means “recognizing the good.” In Alan Morinis’s book, “Everyday Holiness: the Spiritual Path of Mussar,” he explains, “The good

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The Crown of Torah

September 15, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On my morning walk with my dog, I came upon a neighbor walking his dog. He asked me, “What kind of dog is

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A New Heart & Spirit

September 8, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

(adapted from an essay by Rabbi Lyon) The news is often filled with hate and indifference. It can be caustic and destructive. The

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My Beloved is Mine

September 1, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

With all the news, lately, it might have slipped your memory that the Hebrew month of Elul has begun. What’s Elul, you ask?

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A Word on Love

August 11, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This Shabbat is called “Shabbat Nachamu,” or the Sabbath of Comfort. It’s so-called because it comes after the observance of Tisha B’Av (9th

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An Inheritance of Hope

August 4, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On Saturday night, the Jewish observance of Tisha B’Av will begin. Literally the 9th of Av, the date recalls days of destructions in

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A Word from the Mountains

July 21, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Many of you know that I retreat to the mountains in July, to fish, hike, think, write, and breathe deeply. I like to

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Do, Love, Walk

July 14, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

adapted from Rabbi Lyon’s essay, July 2021 The Prophet Micah said to the Israelites, “Remember what Balak, king of Moab, plotted against You,

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America, the Beautiful

July 7, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, Lisa and I took off in a rental car to drive to Tucson. She’ll spend time there to follow up

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Without Passion

June 23, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

How can anyone in the 21st century, who has witnessed and benefited from extraordinary technology, and advances in science and medicine, be solely

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Flex Your Spiritual Muscle

June 16, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The short but powerful story in Numbers 12, reveals tension between Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. Aaron and Miriam call out their brother on

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Fate and Freewill

June 9, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

(Excerpted from Rabbi Lyon’s sermon June 3, 2022) When summer heat in the Middle East fell on the rabbis-of-old, they studied lighter texts

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O Jerusalem

June 2, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In 2016, we were in Jerusalem on “Jerusalem Day,” the day that commemorates the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967. Defeating the Jordanians, who

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What Have We Done?

May 26, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I don’t have to quote Torah or Talmud to clarify how much Judaism prioritizes life and love over the murder and annihilation of

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A First Report ​​​​​​​from Israel

May 21, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On May 8th, David Scott and I left for Israel with 35 other travelers. Our experience was nothing short of amazing. From an

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Reproductive Justice: A Jewish Value

May 5, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Alito Letter, or whatever it will be called in the future, set off a fury of reactions. Some are encouraged by the

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To Be a Jewish Grandparent

April 28, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

When the Israelites came to Mount Sinai, they learned that the condition on which they would receive Torah was that they would teach

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Freedom to Live

April 21, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

(Reprinted by request) What is freedom? Passover teaches us that freedom is liberation from bondage and then revelation at Sinai. There is no

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The Great Sabbath

April 7, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Shabbat HaGadol, the Great Sabbath, is observed one week before the beginning of Passover. It’s so-called, in part, because it was on the

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With Gratitude

March 24, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

One of the first rules we were taught as children was to say “please” and “thank you.” Most of us caught on quickly

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Be Happy, it’s Adar!

March 16, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Be Happy, it’s ADAR! It’s Purim time, and Adar is the Hebrew month in which we celebrate the holiday. When the month begins,

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For Ukraine and the World

March 3, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The atrocities. The bombing. The destruction. Russia’s Putin is fighting a war in the 21st century with strategies left over from the 20th.

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Forging the Future of Worship

February 17, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

At the end of last month, an opinion writer for the New York Times, wrote on “Why Churches Should Drop their Online Services.”

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From Grief to Hope, Together

February 10, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, you expressed compassion and kindness for more than a few families that were grieving, including mine. Lisa’s father died and

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Beth Israel Meets Broadway

February 3, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

If I were a Broadway critic, I’d have only one word to say, “Tremendous!” If I had two words to say, I’d say,

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Sowing Seeds of Hope

January 27, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, we observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and a week ago, Tu B’shvat. International Holocaust Remembrance Day marked the 77th anniversary of

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Sabbath Rest Comes

January 20, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

If life imitates art, then this past weekend closely followed the bondage we read about in Torah on Shabbat, and the redemption celebrated

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To Sing of Freedom

January 13, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This week’s Torah portion is called Beshalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16), and it contains the Song of the Sea. It’s the victory song sung by

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We Hold the Keys

January 6, 2022

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Have you had enough already? Have you reached your limit? If it isn’t COVID-19 and one of its variants, then it’s supply chain

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We Can Do This

December 22, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, Beth Israel’s COVID Taskforce met to review what we can know about COVID-19 and its breakthrough variants, including Omicron. We

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Between Spaces

December 16, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The book of Genesis ends this week with the portion called Vayechi. Next week we’ll begin the book of Exodus. Between the pages,

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Freedom to Choose (reprinted by request)

December 9, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Thirty years ago, we witnessed the horror taking place at Tiananmen Square. On television, we had first-row seats to the unbelievable sight of

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Omicron

December 2, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The only miracle we celebrate at this season is the victory of the Maccabees over their foes and the oil that lasted eight

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Our First Thanksgiving Together, Again

November 18, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In the New York Times, David Leonhardt once wrote an op-ed about the importance of enjoying a “tech-less” Thanksgiving. The point was to

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Newton’s Third Law & Torah

November 4, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I first began to learn the laws of physics in middle school. I was intrigued by Newton’s Third Law: for every action there

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Pittsburgh, Three Years Later

October 28, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Three years ago, a lone gunman walked into Tree of Life Synagogue, in Pittsburgh, and murdered and injured worshipers in the synagogue. The

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Truth is Never Relative

October 21, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Incidents of antisemitism are rising dramatically. There are myriad reasons why it’s rising. There are age-old reasons: old canards, ignorance, gross misrepresentations, and

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Inevitable Moments

September 30, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Our Judaism teaches, “All beginnings are hard.” It’s true. If it’s really a new beginning, then we’ve never done it in the past.

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We are Bound as One

September 23, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Sukkot is one of my favorite holidays. It’s part of the season called Z’man Simchatienu, the “Season of our Joy.” Sukkot is purposely

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Rabbi Karff’s First Yahrzteit

August 19, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On Sunday, August 15th, we observed the first yahrtzeit anniversary of Rabbi Samuel E. Karff’s death. Many of us will say, “I can’t

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Finding Our Voice

August 12, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I was watching late TV recently. I found a channel with an evangelical preacher carrying on about virtue and sin. I know something

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Good to be Home

July 22, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

It’s good to step away and it’s good to return. The time that you afforded me to step away and recharge my batteries

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Chicken Update

July 8, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Since last time I wrote about our two chickens, “Light Meat” and “Dark Meat,” much has happened. We learned a lot about chickens.

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A Shabbat Well-Earned

June 17, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Some years ago, Rabbi Karff and I saw each other in the hallway at Temple and we began to catch up with each

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Israel Matters

June 3, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Suddenly, the calls and emails stopped. As the cease-fire held in the Middle East, and other news filled the headlines and newsfeeds, everyone’s

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Pursue Peace

May 27, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The word “mitzvah” means commandment. It’s also a “good deed,” because every mitzvah, whether it’s a positive or negative commandment, leads us to

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Israel, Our hope

May 20, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I stepped outside this morning to walk the dog in the front yard. As I stood there, my next-door neighbor pulled into his

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Israel Lives

May 13, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Dear Friends, The situation in Israel is critical, again. The media isn’t our only eye-witness account. Our friends and family in Israel are

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Jealousy

April 29, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Who hasn’t felt jealous on occasion? A normal human being feels pangs of jealousy. It happens when we’re young and it can happen

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Human Holiness

April 23, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The double Torah portion this week includes Kedoshim, beginning in Leviticus 19. It’s a favorite portion of Torah and Leviticus, because it begins

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“An Evening with Anne Applebaum”

April 15, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, Congregation Beth Israel’s Wolff-Toomim Distinguished Lecture Series hosted on Zoom, Anne Applebaum, journalist and author, and Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat. In

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“Freedom to Live”

April 1, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

What is freedom? Passover teaches us that freedom is liberation from bondage and then revelation at Sinai. There is no freedom without liberation

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“Emerging to be Free”

March 18, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Passover begins next week on the evening of Saturday, March 27, 2021. The theme of liberation from bondage seems entirely apropos after a

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“What Masks Don’t Hide”

March 4, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The holiday of Purim ended last week, but not the fuss about wearing masks. Masks would have greater appeal if they were always

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“It’s Purim!”

February 25, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Be Happy, it’s ADAR! It’s Purim time, and Adar is the Hebrew month in which we celebrate the holiday. When the month begins,

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“Wise Words in a Pandemic”

February 12, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In 1844, when the Houston Jewish community was beginning to organize itself more formally, Jewish leaders purchased land for a cemetery. Traditionally, it’s

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“A Religious Question”

February 4, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In a world filled with hurt and hate, faith can lead us to many positive outcomes. In the Abrahamic traditions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam),

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“Always Planting”

January 28, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, we observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Tu B’shvat. International Holocaust Remembrance Day also marked the 76th anniversary of the

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“46”

January 21, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The inauguration of President Biden and Vice-President Harris was a momentous occasion. Ultimately, it was a peaceful transition of power that signaled to

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“The Day After”

January 7, 2021

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

We’re all finding our breath after watching the chaos that ensued in the nation’s capital. We have all felt tension before, during, and

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“Dear 2021”

December 31, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Dear 2021, You’re new on the scene. You have no idea what we’ve been through this past year. I won’t even write the

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“Chanukah Lights Our Way”

December 3, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The first night of Chanukah is Thursday night, December 10th! In the darkness of the evening, one small candle plus the shammash (lead

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“America, Land that We Love”

November 13, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Never have I witnessed such a thing and neither have you. Years ago, when I was a boy in the 1970’s, I watched

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“A Prayer for our Country”

November 5, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

God of holiness, we hear Your message: Justice, justice, you shall pursue (Deut. 16). God of freedom, we hear Your charge: Proclaim liberty throughout the land (Lev.

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“Judaism Loves Gray Areas”

October 22, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In Genesis 11, just after the story of Noah and the ark, we read about the Tower of Babel. It’s a short story

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“Do you Swivel?”

October 15, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Judaism and technology sound like contrary ideas. Judaism is four thousand years old and technology is modern and cutting-edge. But I would argue

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“When the Gates Close”

October 8, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Just a week after Yom Kippur, we’re still feeling the warmth and spirit of our season of repentance. Thank you for your emails,

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“Our Fragile Home”

October 1, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Just five days after Yom Kippur, the most solemn day of the year, we begin Sukkot, the beginning of “Z’man Simchateinu,” the season

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“Get Out the Vote”

September 3, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On November 3, 2020, we’ll all vote in our national election. Regardless of your voting preference, which is a private matter, the sharp

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“From Hate to Love”

August 6, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The daily news is filled with hate and indifference, polarized issues and partisan politics. It’s hostile, caustic and destructive. The antidote often begins

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“Keeping the Promise”

July 23, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This week, we open Deuteronomy, the last of the five books of the Torah. In Hebrew, the book is called Devarim, which begins,

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“Who’s Chicken”

July 14, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

It’s been more than ten years since I’ve spent July in Houston. This summer, due to the pandemic and the extra push to

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“In a Time of Revolution”

July 8, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Revolutionary times are the stuff of history, right? Not any longer. It appears that we’re making history, today. We began with the revolutionary

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“Summertime in the City”

June 25, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Summertime used to mean spending more time at home and less time in my office at Temple. As my time away begins on

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“Unmask the Conversations that Heal”

June 18, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

We react in various and multiple ways to the news. Sometimes, we come to the same conclusions and sometimes we misunderstand each other

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“A Time for Speaking”

June 11, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

A week ago, before the funeral for George Floyd, I urged us to listen. It was the right thing to do. Religious leaders

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“After We Mourn”

June 4, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

At a shiva house (a mourner’s house), the mitzvah (commandment) is to comfort the mourners. We bring food, we offer them a plate

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“Faith Doesn’t Take a Holiday”

May 28, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, many of Houston’s rabbis taught classes online for our community as we prepared for Shavuot, the festival holiday that comes

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“COVID-19 Effect”

May 7, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

As the world turns, the pandemic continues to snake its way through our lives. Invasive and elusive, we’re pretending that it isn’t really

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“May There Be Peace Within”

April 30, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This difficult and prolonged period of social isolation defies our human nature to be socially connected. But, if we are to be socially

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“When Life Imitates Art”

April 23, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

When life imitates art, we should learn from it. This week, art comes from the Torah portion, Tazria-Metzora. It’s the Leviticus portion that

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“Know that You are Loved”

April 17, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I can’t remember the last time I sat in my backyard in mid-April, on a towel on the ground eating lunch in the

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Take a Breath. Shabbat is Here.

March 19, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

It’s been 100 years since a pandemic once threatened our way of life. We have no personal experience with it, and the world

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Beth Israel is Here for You

March 12, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Judaism is not without guidance on matters of health and well-being. So important is it to maintain one’s health and to care for

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After AIPAC

March 5, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I returned from AIPAC Policy Conference with more to think about than ever before. But, like previous years, I came with a frame

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We are Jews-by-Obligation

February 20, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Last Friday night, Rabbi Ofek Meir, Director of Leo Baeck Education Center, in Haifa, Israel, was our scholar-in-residence. He spoke about the weekly

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Are You Smarter Than a Fifth-Grader?

February 12, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

There’s a benefit to being a rabbi. In times when justice, truth, civility, and integrity are mocked and challenged, I have a place

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When You’re Free, Your Soul Sings

February 6, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This week’s Torah portion is called B’shalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16), and it contains the Song of the Sea. It’s the victory song sung by

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Buckle Up. Pray Hard. Drive Carefully.

January 30, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In Chicago, they say there are two seasons: winter and construction. In Houston, they also say there are two seasons: summer and August.

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“You Can Vote for Israel, Our Way”

January 16, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Israel is on my mind. It always is. Beginning on January 21st, we will all be asked to support Israel’s future by participating

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“Anti-Semitism on the Rise”

January 2, 2020

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I’m not a prophet nor the son of a prophet, to quote Amos. Neither are you. None of us can predict the future

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“Title VI: Not a Final Solution”

December 12, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This past week, an executive order was signed that defined Judaism as a nationality. It’s an odd thing to do if it weren’t

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“The Whole Truth and Nothing but the Emes”

December 5, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Has anybody ever asked you to give them the “emes”? “Emes” means the truth. In modern Hebrew, it’s pronounced Emet, but the Hebrew

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“Save Room for Humble Pie”

November 27, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In the New York Times, David Leonhardt wrote an op-ed that about the importance of enjoying a “tech-less” Thanksgiving. The point was to

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“Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem” (Psalm 122:6)

November 14, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On its borders, Israel maintains pressure to withstand her enemies and pursuers. Skillfully and strategically, Israel navigates her way towards a unique brand

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Be a Blessing Where You Are

November 5, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Torah portion this week begins with the words, “Lech-L’cha,” go forth…to a place that I will show you. These are the words

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Pittsburgh, One Year Later

October 24, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

One year ago, a lone gunman walked into Tree of Life Synagogue, in Pittsburgh, and murdered and injured worshipers in the synagogue. The

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Newton and Rosh Hashanah

September 6, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Newton’s third law of physics states that “every action has an equal and opposite reaction.” I learned it in basic physics in school.

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I am a Jew

August 29, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

You probably don’t know the name, Edmond Fleg (1874-1963). He was a Jewish French writer, thinker, and playwright of the 20th century. During

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A March of Folly?

August 15, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In April, 2016, New York Times columnist, Arthur Brooks, wrote, “Liberals should be liberals and conservatives should be conservatives. But our duty is

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Blessed is Peace

August 8, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

After two massacres in our nation we struggle deeply. Though they can’t prevent it from happening again, our thoughts and prayers can begin

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Tikkun Olam: Who’s Repairing the Jewish People?

August 1, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

 “Tikkun Olam” (repairing the world) gets a bad rap from some, and maybe for good reason. Tikkun Olam is an aspiration that has

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“Judaism is the Pursuit of Meaning” — Elie Wiesel

July 25, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Two weeks ago, I was in Israel. At 2am, one morning, my phone began to buzz. The message was that a terrible death

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“In Israel, in order to be a realist you must believe in miracles.” — David ben Gurion

July 18, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I just returned from a week in Israel. It wasn’t a tour and I wasn’t leading a group. Instead, the AIEF (American-Israel Education

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Excellence is the Way

July 2, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I’ve often said, “The future of Judaism will not be built on mediocrity; it will be built on excellence.” Excellent rabbis, cantors, educators,

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Summer Time

June 27, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Summer Time After a full and meaningful year, it’s time for vacation. And, what a year it’s been. I’m grateful for the fullness

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Let’s Do This

June 20, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Let’s Do This At one time or another, all of us have said, “Don’t shoot the messenger.” Did you know that it comes

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Prayer is in Your Heart

June 13, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Prayer is in Your Heart Open up your TaNaCh, your Hebrew Bible, to Numbers 12. It’s one of my favorite portions, because it

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Freedom to Choose

June 6, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Freedom to Choose Thirty years ago, we witnessed the horror taking place at Tiananmen Square. On television, we had first-row seats to the

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Gratitude for 165 Years

May 30, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Gratitude for 165 Years Rabbi Karff used to say, “The only thing worse than a boring Annual Meeting is an interesting one.” Thankfully,

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God Says Yes

May 23, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

God Says Yes “Yes” is a powerful word. It enables us to be more than we are, because it gives us permission to

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Follow the Golden Rule for Peace

May 2, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Follow the Golden Rule for Peace In Houston, we gathered for a vigil on Monday afternoon to remember the tragedy in San Diego.

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Listening is Caring

April 25, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

 “Listening is Caring” On a recent Monday night, Lisa and I went to a nice restaurant. Monday is our date night.  When we

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After the Fire: Peoples of Faith Rise Again

April 18, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

After the Fire: Peoples of Faith Rise Again We experience awe in holy places. It can be on a mountaintop or on a

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Connected for Good

March 28, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Connected for Good Connected for Good was the theme of the AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., which took place this past week.

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Are YOU commanding ME?

March 21, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Are YOU commanding ME? To be commanded by anyone feels heavy-handed. It feels contrary to our individualism, which we pride ourselves on as

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Anti-Semitism: When it Happens on the Airplane

March 14, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Anti-Semitism: When it Happens on the Airplane Anti-Semitism is rearing its ugly head, again. This time it’s roaring forth with all its might

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Proper Accounting is a Jewish Value

February 28, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Proper Accounting is a Jewish Value The last portions of Exodus are periodically read as a double portion, called Vayakheil-Pekudei. This year, we

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Welcome, David Barak-Gorodetsky, PhD

February 21, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Welcome, David Barak-Gorodetsky, PhD Welcome, David Barak-Gorodetsky, PhD, who is coming to Congregation Beth Israel, from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, in

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A National Prayer Breakfast Experience

February 14, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

A National Prayer Breakfast Experience   The phone rang. It was Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, member of the United States House of Representatives from

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Belonging is natural to us. Belonging sustains us. Belonging becomes us.

January 31, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Belonging is natural to us. Belonging sustains us. Belonging becomes us.   “Belonging” is something we crave as social beings. We crave groups

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MLK, JR & RBG

January 23, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

MLK, JR & RBG   On Friday night, January 18th, Congregation Beth Israel welcomed to the bimah 83 members of International Voices Houston,

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“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

January 17, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.   On Friday, January

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Listen. Read. Enjoy.

January 3, 2019

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Listen. Read. Enjoy.   What are you reading and listening to? I have three suggestions for you to fill your days and nourish

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In the new year 2019, let us strengthen each other

December 26, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This blog has been reissued by request. In the new year 2019, let us strengthen each other   When I was a child

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A Kosher Christmas

December 20, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

A Kosher Christmas     In America, Jewish families have long had a role in Christmas, so mentioning it isn’t odd; it’s part

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Points of Light and #41

December 6, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Points of Light and #41   President George H.W. Bush, of blessed memory, created “Points of Light,” which promotes “solving serious social problems

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Rabbi Lyon’s recipe for a Shalom Bayyit, a peaceful house, this season

November 15, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Rabbi Lyon’s recipe for a Shalom Bayyit, a peaceful house, this season   Getting ready for the holidays requires more than stocking the

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“I did not leave tonight’s Sabbath of Comfort service pessimistic; but rather with a lot of hope.” The Honorable Sylvester Turner, Mayor City of Houston.

November 8, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“I did not leave tonight’s Sabbath of Comfort service pessimistic; but rather with a lot of hope.” The Honorable Sylvester Turner, Mayor City

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“Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh,” All Jews are responsible for each other

November 1, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh,” All Jews are responsible for each other   I’m reeling from the shock and horror of the carnage

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“Anyone who thinks he understands Israel, hasn’t been fully informed.”

October 24, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Anyone who thinks he understands Israel, hasn’t been fully informed.” “Anyone who thinks he understands Israel, hasn’t been fully informed.” I don’t recall

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Diversity will be a non-issue and humanity will be highlighted as our 21st century achievement.

October 18, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Diversity will be a non-issue and humanity will be highlighted as our 21st century achievement.” Civility is missing, today. It’s not a political

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Access to truth before passing judgment is our moral duty.

October 4, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Access to truth before passing judgment is our moral duty” The news about this past week’s confirmation hearings doesn’t require another commentary, but

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“Behold, A Grandson!”

September 27, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Behold, A Grandson!” A Sweet New Year happens in many ways, but this year it happened in a way I’ve never experienced before.

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“Will they honor her memory by choosing to do the same?”

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Will they honor her memory by choosing to do the same?”   The Jewish New Year 5779, is just a week away. Before

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 08_17_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

               How apropos that this week’s Torah portion is Shofetim (Deuteronomy 16:18ff), which includes the familiar phrase,

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“The time is ripe for renewing health, well-being and peace.” 

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“The time is ripe for renewing health, well-being and peace.”   In Torah this week, Re’eh (see) is the first word of the portion.

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Thank God for the blessings we’ve been granted and the privilege to enjoy them.

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Thank God for the blessings we’ve been granted and the privilege to enjoy them.”    I’m back. Since June 1st, I was able

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Beware of Falling Rocks!

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“Beware of Falling Rocks!”   In Jerusalem, a large stone fell from the Western Wall (Kotel) onto the egalitarian prayer space near Robinson’s

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“An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.” Martin Buber

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.” Martin Buber   In 2006, a 2.5 pound Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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I am a Jew because Israel’s promise is a universal promise.

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“I am a Jew because Israel’s promise is a universal promise.” Just one month ago, following our congregational trip to Israel, I spent

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There’s no issue today for which we have to kill, defame, or alienate others, beginning with fellow Americans and fellow Jews.

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“There’s no issue today for which we have to kill, defame, or alienate others,  beginning with fellow Americans and fellow Jews.”   Pinchas

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 06_29_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

If you’re moving the pins on your map, then you’ll find me now in Colorado. Today, I’m surrounded by books and my laptop.

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 06_22_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Don’t cite Biblical verses. Don’t make historical references. Don’t recite poetry and rhymes. When we forcibly separate children and parents, for any reason,

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 06_15_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Beth Israel travelers returned home from Israel this week. They learned many new Hebrew words, like “arba” (four), “boker tov” (good morning),

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 06_08_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I’m in Israel. More than that, I’m breathing the air, eating the food, speaking the language, and watching our group experience the land

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 05_25_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On Israel’s 70th anniversary, the U.S. Embassy in Israel was officially dedicated in its new location in Jerusalem. It actually occupies a building

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 05_11_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Freedom is an ideal for humanity that we constantly strive to reach. In 1986, Elie Wiesel (z”l), on the occasion of the award

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 05_04_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Leviticus, a priestly book, has as its primary focus an emphasis on the cleanliness of the community and its adherence to ritual matters

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 04_27_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Today, we hear a lot about power: military power, corporate power, and political power. We don’t hear as much about personal power. But,

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 04_20_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In the double portion, Tazria/M’tzora, we have the responsibility, even if it isn’t our pleasure, to investigate texts on birth and its aftermath, bodily

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 04_13_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The dietary laws presented in the Book of Leviticus are intended to draw us closer to God. But even I, as a rabbi,

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 04_06_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

In the first half of Parashat Sh’mini (Leviticus 9:1-10:11), we read about the awful fate of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu. As sons of the

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 03_30_2018

August 30, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

When Shabbat falls on the first day of Pesach, Yom Rishon shel Pesach, we read in Torah Moses’ instructions to, “remember this day, on which

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 03_23_2018

March 23, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This year, Parashat Tzav is read on Shabbat HaGadol, the great Sabbath preceding Passover. It is so called because we find in this week’s haftarah,

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 03_16_2018

March 16, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Book of Leviticus is not a favorite among biblical readers. If it’s any indication, Hollywood hasn’t recreated any scenes from Leviticus, like

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 03_09_2018

March 9, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The last portion of Exodus is a double portion, called Vayakheil-Pekudei. It recounts the completion of the construction of the Tabernacle, the dwelling

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 03_02_2018

March 2, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

We have MUSIC! During Cantor Star Trompeter’s installation services last Friday night, I had the overwhelming sensation that the music we’ve come to

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog title Lorem ipsum dolor sit incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.

February 26, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“We are children. You guys are the adults. Work together, come over your politics, and get something done.”  David Hogg, student at Marjory

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog title Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, cons ectetur adip cons

February 26, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 02_23_2018

February 23, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

“We are children. You guys are the adults. Work together, come over your politics, and get something done.”  David Hogg, student at Marjory

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 02_16_2018

February 16, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

I was in New York City twice in the last three weeks. I don’t use the subway, because I’m quite sure that I’d

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 02_09_2018

February 9, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

We fear the things we don’t understand. It’s true. Think about anything you fear and you’ll conclude that you don’t understand enough about

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 02_02_2018

February 2, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On Friday night, January 26th, I was in New York City, at Central Synagogue for Cantor Daniel Mutlu’s installation service. Cantor Mutlu invited

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 01_26_2018

January 26, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

This week’s Torah portion is called B’shalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16), and it contains the Song of the Sea. It’s the victory song sung by

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 01_19_2018

January 19, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

The Torah portion called Bo, described the last plagues that God visited upon Egypt before Pharaoh finally let the Israelites go. The narrative

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 01_12_2018

January 12, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

Last Saturday evening, Malcolm Mazow was called to the Torah as a bar mitzvah at the age of 83. The Mishnah teaches that

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Rabbi Lyon’s Blog – 01_05_2018

January 5, 2018

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

From the Desk of Rabbi David Lyon January 5, 2018   “It is not your obligation to complete all the work, but neither