Message From Cantor Brian Reich (April 2009)

Traditional Judaism teaches us that the Messiah will be the dominating figure of an age of universal peace and plenty; through a restored Israel, he will bring about the spiritual regeneration of humanity, when all will blend into one brotherhood to perform righteousness with a perfect heart.  The prophet Zechariah said (14:9) "on that day the Lord shall be one, and his name one". In other words, when the Messiah arrives, things will get better for all on this earth. One of the most wonderful teachings from Reform Judaism evolves around the Messiah. Reform Judaism espouses a very different view of the Messiah then the Traditional perspective. Reform Judaism teaches us that it is the job, the responsibility of each one of us to create a Messianic age. By our actions, our deeds and our caring for one another we will all share in the work that makes this life a blessed life. At my Seder table this year, I will not fill the Cup of Elijah in the usual manner. I will not fill the cup, place it on the table and wait for Elijah the Prophet. I will take my cup, pour just a little wine from my cup in to the Cup of Elijah, pass the Cup of Elijah to the person to my side and ask that all members of the Seder contribute a little wine in to the cup of Elijah. This is a wonderful way to symbolize, to personify the concept that perhaps waiting for Elijah to save us is not helping us. Each and every one of us needs to actively take an active hand in the job of creating a more just world. If we all contribute just a little in to the cup of sweet wine, we will fill the cup collectively and we will collectively work for a more peaceful existence for humanity. One of my favorite readings from the old Gates of Prayer Book is "May we by our thoughts and deeds, hasten the time when wrong and violence shall cease and justice be established on all the Earth.  V'yigal ka-mayim mishpat, let justice roll down like waters.  Utza-dakah k'nahchal eyton, and righteousness flow like a mighty stream. "Be mindful of the love that is shared between friends and family this Passover, it is a precious gift. 

With Love,

Cantor Brian Reich