Good Shabbos,

This week’s Torah portion, Matot-Ma'asei, translates to, “Tribes” and “Journeys”. As teens from across the Order embark on travels they too are engaging in their own personal journeys just as the Israelites did. Hundreds of Alephs and BBGs are traveling from Pennsylvania to Israel, Europe, and everywhere in between.  As members of our community attend summer programs they are actively learning, growing, and connecting with their Jewish identities and beyond. These individuals reflect similar values as the Israelis' did during their journeys. 

Matot-Ma'asei tells of the Israelites' travels from the desert into the holy land of Israel. Moses teaches the tribal leaders the laws they must abide by along their journeys. He highlights the power and responsibility of one’s voice ensuring that as the Israelistics navigate their journeys they are supportive and kind to one another. 

This parsha recounts the 42 journeys that the Israelites experienced as they navigated life through the wilderness. These journeys remind us that life is about more than reaching a destination, whether returning to your cabin after a long day at camp or finishing a book on a hot summer day, the growth we experience through our experiences shape who we are. 

The theme of tribes is equally as important as the journeys that unite them. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh are permitted to settle outside of the promised holy land of Israel. These communities were only given this blessing once they had committed to help those around them. 

This story teaches that although our paths in life may stray away from one another, as the Jewish people, we hold responsibility for supporting those around us. 

As we enter Shabbat together, as one community- one tribe, may we embrace both the journeys and the communities that shape us. 

 Shabbat Shalom
Mel Franklin
Wisconsin Region #64
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Simchat Torah Challenge Podcast Series

Interested in listening to this week's parsha? Check out Pacific Westerns' take on Parshat Matot and Northwest Canada's take on Parshat Ma'asei as a part of the Simchat Torah Challenge Podcast Series. The Simchat Torah Challenge is a yearlong journey where teens from around the Order are exploring the Torah, one parsha at a time. Teens are connecting with the text, sharing their thoughts, and exploring how it relates to their own lives.