It is bittersweet that the Torah readings for Pesach include the story of the aftermath of the worship of the golden calf. I’m sure you remember the details of idolatry and infidelity. Contrast this sorrowful tale to the joy and sweetness of Passover. Why would the Rabbis do such a thing as assign this tragedy of a reading for such a happy time?  The specific portion I mention (Exodus 34.1, ff.) describes the difficult conversation between God and Moses, a troubling exchange about doubt, faith and God’s essence. While—spoiler alert—everything works out for all, I come away from the story ill at ease. After all, with all of the wonderful and inspiring tales in our history, why would the Torah recall this uncomfortable incident? Wouldn’t it have been better for the Torah to omit the story altogether?

The response is that our people and our Rabbis often saw themselves trapped in a Sinai wilderness, just as so many of us feel trapped today. As a result, many react with deep concern about the integrity of our vision and the wellbeing of the Jewish people. How can we advance? How will we even sustain ourselves? Yet, just as the Torah raises a similar concern, it addresses it at the same time.

We have this story for Passover reading because the Torah and the Rabbis want us to remember that, despite all the heartache, the people of Israel prevailed. Their triumph stands as a promise to us that, despite challenges, setbacks and failures, we as well will be sustained and advance in life. We need faith in ourselves and our collective wisdom, our resources, labors and strengths. Most of all, we need each other, as we find one another in this beloved Temple community.

My best wishes to you and family as we prepare to close Passover 5785.