Today, Rishon 10, is the day set aside to take a lamb for every household according to the command in Shemot (Exodus) 12:3. Let us set apart our lambs today and keep them until the fourteenth day of this month for the Pesach sacrifice, ensuring that our hearts and homes are prepared for the appointment of our redemption.
Shalom, Mitspacha!
Justice - preservation of life
"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both you and your seed may live."
- Devarim (Deuteronomy) 30:19
Today we focus on the fundamental principle of Divine Justice: the preservation of life. In the Torah, justice is not merely about punishment, but about the active protection and choice of life. This mitzvah requires us to prioritize the safety, health, and survival of our fellow man above all other interests. To preserve a life is to honor the Sovereignty of the Giver of Life.
Every choice we make is a move toward either life or death. Preservation of life is a continuous act of stewardship. As we set aside our lambs today for Pesach, we are reminded that redemption is ultimately about the preservation of Yisra'el through the blood of the lamb.
Justice demands that we do not remain inappropriate when life is at stake. Whether through providing for the sick, protecting the vulnerable, or choosing words that build up rather than destroy, we are called to be agents of life in a world often overshadowed by death.
Abba YHVH, we thank You for the gift of life and the breath You have placed within us. Grant us the wisdom to choose life in every decision we make today. Help us to be defenders of the weak and preservers of the dignity and survival of our neighbors. May our lives reflect Your heart of mercy and Your commitment to the preservation of Your people.
Baruch YHVH.
Shalom until tomorrow.