Sharing Insights: On Praying and Studying
June 27, 2024
“What is the difference between prayer and study?” asked the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, explaining the order of a Jewish prayer service and the importance of studying Torah and Jewish texts. “In prayer, we speak to God; while in study, God speaks to us.”
Then he added, perhaps as an admonishment, “Before we can ask God to listen to us, we have to show that we can listen to Him.”
Learn, then ask.
Listen, then speak.
A good reminder that my own words are not the most important ones. And that there is a source other than myself for what I know, and that to want should be an expression, not a demand.
An unfolding lesson, too, that there may be an intermediary force guiding my thoughts and expressions. I am a vessel, receiving and sharing nourishment.
What nourishes does not originate with me.
The vessel is temporary.
The balance is between who I am, what I receive, and what is given to others.
As I go deeper into retirement, shed of the necessity of achieving tasks and fulfilling expectations, I am learning to live as a reflection of what is within, which comes from learning and listening, seeking and connecting, praying and creating.
How does your life reflect what is within you?
The Israeli hostages are still in captivity. Bring them home now!
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