Abraham sits at the entrance of his tent, God appears and then, Abraham is compelled to look up. Three strangers approach, supposedly angels of God. Abraham runs towards them.
However, later in the story, when Abraham is about to take his son鈥檚 life, it takes God shouting at Abraham: Not once, but twice for Abraham to stop and pay attention.
Why are we less likely to notice those who are most important? Whether it鈥檚 when our loved ones need our intervention or when they鈥檙e trying to guide us in a positive way, often, attention is reserved for moments that just matter less. Work, entertainment, and trivial distractions get more of our time than the human beings with whom we are deeply connected.
Perhaps we鈥檙e less mindful because we think there鈥檚 more time to offer. Or we鈥檙e less careful because we assume forgiveness is inherent in our close relationships. But why would we take any chances with those we cherish the most?
God wants us to pay attention to ways we鈥檙e meant to make an impact on their lives. Let鈥檚 not make our loved ones call our names twice.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Nicole Guzik is senior rabbi at Sinai Temple. She can be reached at her Facebook page at or on Instagram . For more writings, visit Rabbi Guzik鈥檚 from Sinai Temple鈥檚 website.
