07 Nov MTC Highlights: Parshat Lech Lecha
Lauren Friedman - Programming
“Go for yourself from your land, from your relatives, from your father’s house, to the land that I will show you” (Bereshit 12:1)
This week’s Parasha is all about Avraham Avinu, the first person who ever believed in one G-d.
Avraham was a man who came from a troubled background, one of many temptations.
He came from a place that preached evil; yet, despite all of that he searched for the truth. His father was an idol worshiper and seller.
We know Avraham Avinu to be the epitome of chessed/kindness and giving. How is it possible for a person who comes from such an evil corrupt world, becomes the kindest loving example in the Torah?
Hashem is showing us that we are truly never lost, we are never in a place that we have to give up because of our surroundings, the challenges we were given, or even bad choices we made. There is always an option to run after the truth and search for G-d.
Hashem tells Avrahm Lech Lecha! Go for yourself!
When translating this from Hebrew to English it’s a bit hard to truly understand the depth into what G-d is telling Avraham. But we will try because English is definitely easier for all of us!
Lech Lecha! Go for yourself! Don’t go for them, don’t go for me, go for you!!! Go to a place that I will show you. A place you do not know.
The way Hashem speaks to Moshe is in a singular tense “Lech Lecha” is singular in the Hebrew language, as written above, for Avraham to go for himself… not for anyone else.
It is hard not to be influenced in a world that is so media oriented and influenced. Yet, we have the opportunity to “Lech
Lecha”.
Each one of us has a very specific mission (tafkid) that Hashem has gifted to us in this world. One of truth, one of Torah.
If you’ve yet to learn it then now is the time to try and figure out how to discover it. And learn from Avraham that it’s never too late. You can never be so lost and so distracted that you can’t return or discover your truth and mission in this world.
And the second part of what G-d says to Avraham…”To a place that I will show you”.
The path may be bumpy, you may get lost, everything may be unfamiliar, but when you get there I will take your hand and show you everything. He will not leave you. Believe in me and I will not leave your sight.
What comforting words Hashem is telling us.
Through life we go through a lot of different challenges, a lot of things that are unknown, we usually don’t have the answer. But we know that Hashem is always there, and at some point Hashem will show you the way and make things clear for you.
May we all merit to learn our special specific mission we have in this world and feel G-d guiding us through it all.
Student Reflection
Jordana Bruschansky - Maayanot, NJ - New Milford, NJ
The past month and a half has flown by so quickly. I remember the excitement I felt as I began my year at MTC. From the moment I landed in Israel, the warm welcome at the airport made me feel right at home.
Adjusting to life in seminary and becoming part of the children’s lives was challenging at first. Everything felt overwhelming, and getting to know each of the kids was difficult. However, as I’ve spent more time with them, their unique personalities have begun to shine through. I’ve been building deeper connections by engaging in various activities together.
In the midst of our busy lives, it’s easy to become absorbed in our own concerns and challenges. However, working with the children has shifted my perspective. I am learning to focus less on myself and more on the needs and emotions of others. Each child I’ve interacted with has taught me the importance of being present and attentive. They crave acknowledgment and connection, reminding me that sometimes the simplest gestures—a smile or a word of encouragement—can make a significant difference in someone’s day.
My time at MTC has shown me that focusing on others not only helps them but also fosters my own growth. I look forward to continuing to strengthen these relationships and embracing the opportunities to connect and make a difference in the lives of others.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the MTC family.
