Rabbi’s Shabbat Message
Are You Ready to Open Your Door To Miracles?
Novelist Dara Horn recently wrote a book titled “People Love Dead Jews”. The inspiration for this title came from an incident at the The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, the very place where Anne Frank went into hiding and composed her famous diary in 1942.
A few years ago, at this museum, which is visited by millions annually, a young Jewish employee was instructed to hide his kippah under a baseball cap to maintain the museum’s “independent position.”
The employee protested and after six months of deliberation, museum management finally allowed him to wear his kippah openly.
Horn, with her sharp wit, commented on the irony of the situation, noting that six months “seems like a rather long time for the Anne Frank House to ponder whether it was a good idea to force a Jew into hiding.”
Horn uses this example to illustrate a broader theme: the world seems more at ease with commemorating Jewish tragedies, rather than supporting the vibrancy of Jewish life. The story of Anne Frank, hidden away for years, captivates millions. Yet the presence of a living Jew who refuses to hide his identity barely causes a stir. It seems easier to express sympathy for the long-dead Frank than solidarity with the Jew standing before you.
In the face of rising antisemitism, we are reminded that the most powerful stance we can take is one of pride in our identity. The best way to fight antisemitism is not by dimming our light but by amplifying it! It’s in the joyful celebration of our Jewish identity — wearing our kippah, lighting the Shabbat candles, affixing the mezuzah, observing Passover, and engaging in the traditions that have sustained our people and faith through the ages.
The Pesach story takes us from the shadows of persecution to the radiance of Jewish tradition and pride. Our ancestors observed the very first Seder in Egypt under the yoke of slavery, their celebrations confined within their homes, doors shut. They were commanded:
“לֹא תֵצְאוּ אִישׁ מִפֶּתַח בֵּיתוֹ עַד־בֹּקֶר”
“None of you shall go out of the door of his house until the morning.”
In stark contrast, our Seder ends by opening our doors for Elijah the Prophet as a gesture of faith, freedom, and an invitation to share the beauty of Judaism with the world.
As we open our doors at the Seder, tradition tells us the gates of heaven are swinging wide open too. This moment presents a unique chance to pray for the safety and peace of the Jewish people, both in Israel and worldwide. We pray for the return of our hostages, an end to the war and other personal matters close to your heart. The Jews in Egypt had their share of misery. But their grandest wish was granted when it seemed most remote.
Pesach is not just a commemoration of the Exodus, but a time for reflection, renewal, and a deeper connection to our heritage. It is a moment to look back with gratitude for the miracles that shaped our past, and strengthen our resolve for the challenges of today.
This year, as we gather to celebrate Pesach, each one of us is making a powerful declaration: Anne Frank’s attic will no longer serve as a refuge for our Judaism. Together, we embrace the truth that the best way to fight antisemitism is not by dimming our light but by shining the light of Judaism brighter than ever before into the world.
We have many opportunities for you to shine your light! First and foremost, we must ensure EVERYONE has a seat at a Seder this year to experience the joy of freedom with our community. Please consider sponsoring a place at the Seder table. Please visit our website to donate.
On Sunday eve, April 13 we host our legendary 2nd Night Seder! We’d love for you to join us, but book soon to avoid disappointment. As this is a time for Tzedakah – If you can, please help deliver Shmurah Matzah next week. Your time and generosity will be deeply appreciated. Please call the office if you can assist.
Shabbat Shalom and as we say in the Haggadah Le’Shanah Ha’ba’ah b’yerushalayim- Next year in Jerusalem!
Good Shabbos,
Rabbi Levi & Chanie