In this world where so much seems beyond our will, what is within our grasp to hold on to?

This year, amidst the war that rages on the ground, in the shattered remnants of our hearts, we believe the world needs an extra Shabbat of Comfort, an extra dose of compassion, an extra week to seek comfort for all of God's fragile creation.

In Jewish tradition, on this very day of disaster Mashiach (Messiah) was born, but hidden away till a generation would come that is ready to make peace and eco-social justice in the world.

A few days ago I downloaded the "Code Red" app to my phone that Israelis use to follow the thousands of rockets being launched over the border from Gaza. Over the course of thirty minutes the phone sounded more than 10 times.

How can we draw on the ancient wisdom of Biblical Israel as an indigenous people in sacred relationship with the Earth? How can we use this storehouse of wisdom toward helping heal all Humanity and Mother Earth today, from a crucial planetary crisis threatening the very life and health of all of us?