My heart is in Israel.
Israel is now at war with Iran, with the IDF engaged in the fight to defend the Holy Land and our brothers and sisters, and to bring peace to the region.
This is not just another war. This is not just another news cycle. This is a moment that will echo through history for generations.
As Israel goes into lockdown, with our hearts and eyes turned toward our homeland, it’s no coincidence that this week’s Torah portion recounts how, each time the Children of Israel set out on their perilous journeys, Moses would declare: “Arise, O G-d, and scatter Your enemies.”
Most of us are hundreds or thousands of miles away, in our own communities. Yet our very being cries out: How can we help? Is there anything we can do?
At this critical hour, Am Yisroel needs your prayers.
In a striking development, the Chief Rabbis of Israel have called on the public, in accordance with Home Front Command guidelines: Shabbat prayers should not be held in synagogues.
If Israelis can’t go to shul, we must go for them. Let our voices, our prayers, our presence in shul be not only for ourselves, but on behalf of our brothers and sisters who cannot gather. Now more than ever, our prayers must echo louder, stronger, and reach higher.
Here are a few suggestions I believe you’ll find meaningful:
Firstly, let’s gather tomorrow on Shabbat, June 14 at 11:00 a.m. to storm the Heavens on behalf of our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land. Join us for prayers and to stand in solidarity at Chabad Naples in support of Israel. If you don't usually come to Shul, please consider joining the Chabad Naples family this Shabbat.
Secondly, always remember we are all connected. By performing a Mitzvah here, we uplift our brethren in Israel.
I urge you to adopt a Mitzvah in honor of the Israeli people. For men, if you haven’t yet, perhaps consider donning Tefillin regularly, even if it is once a week. For women, consider lighting the Shabbat and holiday candles on time.
If you are not sure which Mitzvah to choose, please reach out to me or Ettie. We will be happy to help.
Know that every Mitzvah strengthens our spiritual connection, bringing protection to our brothers and sisters in Israel. So, please choose a Mitzvah soon.
Thirdly, if you have contacts in Israel—and I believe most of us do—drop them a line. A call or an email expressing your care, mentioning the Mitzvah you’re taking up for them, can be uplifting.
Lastly, give Tzedakah. Invest in Israel Bonds. There are many commendable organizations that deserve your support. Please give where your heart leads you. You can also contribute through our website by clicking here. In the comments, please write “Israel Emergency Fund." Let's lift up Israel with heart and action.
Our prayers, mitzvot and acts of charity on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Israel are not symbolic, they are powerful, as they are critical. They draw down Divine blessing and protection. They help ensure that G d’s watchful eye remains upon the Land and its people, guarding them from harm.
This is an unprecedented time and we need every one of us to be strong and be counted. We can’t just sit by. What we do here makes a difference there.
If not now, then when? And if not us, then who?
Friends, let’s pray to G-d from the bottom of our hearts:
Please G-d, be with the heroic members of Israel's Air Force, the IDF, our brothers and sisters in Israel, and the American troops in the region.
Please G-d, be with Israel’s leadership, that they make the right decisions for the safety and security of Israel.
Please G-d, bring back all hostages to their families.
Please G-d, enough with this exile. Please bring us Moshiach and make our world whole again.
Am Yisroel Chai!
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos
2He causes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters.
A song for ascents.
I shall raise my eyes to the mountains, from where will my help come?
2My help is from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.