The Star

I watched the heavens in amazement over most of the past year as Jupiter and Saturn appeared and traveled the sky together. Tonight, it was more. The two planets combined to make a show that reminded us of the first Christmas, over 2000 years ago.

Jupiter & Saturn from Brooklyn, NYC

In today’s world, especially in the cities, we miss most of the spectacular beauty God has set in the heavens (Psalm 8:1) God tells us to consider the heavens, the moon and the stars, that are the work of His fingers (Psalm 8:3), but in civilized countries, (it is sad to say) it is more convenient to stay inside.
But long ago, people did not stay inside so much. The homes were smaller (or tents), and lacked the modern diversions that rob so many of God’s beauty. In early Babylon, most people made a practice of stepping outside to observe the heavens. Religious leaders, who were the first scientists, built ziggurats in strategic locations to see the moon and the stars. Observers in Mesopotamia discovered the first seven planets, including Jupiter and Saturn, and marked their movements on a nightly basis.

In early Persia, Magi observed the heavens regularly so they could inform the king of changes in the stars that might give clues to major world events. It is evident that they shared information with others, for these early astronomers clearly understood a prediction written by Balaam who worked for King Balak of Moab. This astronomer / astrologer / prophet / priest / magician prognosticated in the days of Moses, “A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the people of Sheth. … A ruler will come out of Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city.”

In my book Advent Journeys, I explain how the Magi saw the star, visited their king, and made a journey to the land of Israel to find the new king the star was predicting. The Eastern scholars experienced amazing things as they traveled from Persia to Palestine. They saw a wonder and visions upon their arrival in Bethlehem, which would not be forgotten during their lifetime … and in fact, is remembered even until today.

     

This Christmas, what is your practice? Is it sitting inside? Following status quo traditions? Giving and receiving gifts? Is it more? This year, make it more! Begin with a sight in the heavens that has not been seen for 800 years! Then take a look at the story from a different vantage point, through the eyes of the Magi, so you can really understand why the heavens came together to make an amazing display, which was seen by the Wise Men, and still talked about today.

An Easter Stay at Home idea

The COVID-19 epidemic is changing the way we do things this year. Whether you are sick or not, churches are closed, families that live apart will shelter in place, and people who celebrate together with an Easter dinner will be eating alone. We have been told to stay home. The holiday weekend that so many people celebrate will be different this year.

But does that mean you can’t celebrate Easter? By all means, no! Easter is a matter of the heart, and we can still pray, and read the events surrounding the resurrection in our Bibles. We can also watch multiple church services, and find inspiration for this season.

But is that enough? For adults the answer might be yes … but for families with children, it is not enough.

Of course families can still give Easter baskets, candy, and celebrate with a small Easter Egg hunt in the back yard, but do these things really teach the message of the Bible.

I must stop and confess at this point that Easter Egg hunts have always confused me. I have looked in my Bible, performed concordance searches, read commentaries, and have never found where the Easter bunny appears in scripture. I have looked at biology texts and even read Ripley’s Believe it or not, and have not found one case where a rabbit laid an egg that produced a chicken! Honestly, is this the message we are supposed to share at Easter?

I would like to suggest a different plan for families: act out the story. Several years ago we did a “live nativity” with parts for our church. The play was nine scenes long (Pilate’s throne room, the Upper Room, Disciples in hiding, women at the gate, the donkey farmer, soldiers at the cross, Nicodemus, Angels at the Tomb, and Jesus in the Garden). The scenes require 3 or 4 actors per scene, and tell the real story of Easter.

During a “stay at home” Easter, this would be a fantastic way to share the story as a family. It would teach children about the events in the Bible, and could start a new family tradition.

In my Jewish family, Biblical stories were told dynamically. Like, at Passover, the story is told with food, an afikomen hunt, and a visit by Elijah. This happens every year, and the story has stuck with me.

As an educator, I know children learn more when they are involved. The more senses used during a lesson, the longer it will be remembered. So … if you want your children to really remember the Easter message, dress them up, give them props and parts, and act out the scenes of the story of Easter with them.

Do you need a great resource? My book, The Case of the Missing Body” contains the story as a play. It has clear parts, and can be acted out. One copy of this book can be passed around, and the whole family can enjoy the fun this Easter. The book is only 99￠, and because it is an e-book, you can order it from Amazon.com and get it today! Click the link here: LINK. This is what the book looks like.

The Resurrection Drama for Churches and Families

This Easter, while you are home, do something different! Do something your family will remember FOREVER, put on a play and tell the real story of what happened at Easter.

DIY Easter

What are you doing for Easter this year. For many families this season is heartily anticipated. There is a 40 day period of preparation called Lent; then comes Palm Sunday when people begin to remember Jesus’ last week on earth; and finally there is the weekend with Maundy Thursday (Passover), Good Friday, and Resurrection Day. Churches prepare huge celebrations, dramas, cantatas, and special services (which will be remote this year). People purchase Sunday clothing, plan Easter Egg Hunts, and large family gatherings. BUT ...

This is the year that everything External will be different. There will be no large community gatherings because of the COVID-19 epidemic. We must stay home. So what will Easter be like? Perhaps, in its own way, for one year, better, because, if we will, we can focus on the internal meaning rather than the external events.

So, what is Easter? Is it the clothing, the chocolates, the choir specials, or the crowds? Not really! Easter celebrates the atoning death and the surprising resurrection of Jesus. Easter celebrates LIFE (not life with gusto, which only distracts us from real life - but LIFE that connects with God and goodness). So, what will you be doing this Easter?

It is time for a do it yourself Easter.

How can you do that? Plan! If you have children, here is a recommendation. Purchase a Kindle version of the book “The Case of the Missing Body.” (It is 99￠, hope that does not break the bank!) It contains a nine act play, and some added stories and facts. Most of the acts only require 2-4 actors, and are written so children can understand. Pass the book around, and read the parts. Then talk about how each scene fits into the larger Easter story.

Order this book today on Amazon.com

Children learn by doing … not by sitting in a church service. This play is doing! Your family will greatly benefit if you will spend the hour you normally spend in church, reading through this play. Don’t fight the system, don’t mourn the loss of normal … just do something different, and you will be glad you did! (And talk about it for years!)

The book is on Amazon.com - click here!

This Easter is a great time for something different! A great time for DIY, with help, of course. So try it out.

And please pass this idea on, so others can enjoy Easter, wrapped in its full meaning also.

Passover across the Miles

As we close in on Passover eve, I hope everything is falling in place for your virtual Seder. Yes, this year will be different than all others, and we might end with the phrase בשנה הבאה בנורמליות (Next year with normalcy), instead of בשנה הבאה בירושלים (Next year in Jerusalem). The big thing is that our family gathers at Pesach must go on!

If you have followed this blog, I would like to know how it went! Did the virtual Passover work for you. If you used (or even looked at) my new Psalmatic Seder, what did you think. I will make a few edits for next year, so, comments will help.

A new Haggadah from the book of Psalms

In today’s blog, we will consider the final two questions from the list of questions that appeared in my April 1 blog:

5. On all other Passovers we converse around the room and share the Haggadah together … Why on this Passover will we converse from house to house?

Of course, the answer to this is social distancing due to Coronavirus prevents us from gathering together, as normal, in the same house. In this age of technology, we can still virtually gather, stringing multiple houses together electronically. I have shared ideas on how to do this in the last several blogs (beginning April 1).

This week I also watched a training video about using Zoom for a video platform. It is an hour long, visit the Centralsynagogue facebook page, and click on the video link. It is called: DIY Zoom Seder Tutorial. There are many great hints on how to do this, and other things to include in the Seder. Time of the video is about an hour.

The goal for this Passover is to see and talk to many others at the same time, while we stay in the safety of our virus free home environment. The idea is to graduate from individual cell phones to a central computer that captures everyone, and can be used in leading a family Seder, along with individual phones for message and pictures, connecting multiple homes and creating an experience which will almost mimic being in the same room.

8. On all other Passovers either bubbe does all the cooking, or we each bring our favorite dishes … Why on this Passover do we share recipes, each cook our own and share the tastes?

No, dinner won’t be the same! But we can try. There can be three approaches to this: a) Everyone cooks the same traditional foods; b) One person does the cooking, and the food is carted in individual containers to each house; 3) Everyone does their own thing, and compares their food with pictures and descriptions to see who’s is the best. {With option 3, a new tradition could be established!}

This year, of all years, is a good time to create a virtual cookbook. What are the traditional recipes of your Passover … and not just Pesach eve, but also the next seven mornings as we use Matzoh instead of bread. How do we make Matzo brei, macarons and other special foods. It might be time to get the next generation involved in cooking … since they are home from school.

In past blogs, you have seen, the table should be set with table cloth, cloth napkins silverware, fine china and our best glasses. Also candles, seder plate and matzo tash. We should spare nothing at making this a great Seder, although separated physically, we must celebrate together. And remember, there is coming a day when the CDC and WHO will let our people go, and we can eat together under the same roof once again.

Creatively Socially Distancing

Passover Seders are supposed to be relational and fun! We raise our glasses for prayers, then clink and say L’Chaim together. During the Seder a child is instructed to ask four questions (then to sit back on a cushioned chair … but not fall asleep). We watch for reactions to the maror, and laugh and sing a song about a little goat. Without planning our self quarantined Seders will be somber and lonely.

With creativity and forethought we can create interaction throughout the evening. One suggestion already given is to use a computer (with good Bluetooth speakers) for the main Seder. We can also text and hold side conversations on the cell phone during the evening. Pictures can also be made and sent back and forth.

But there are other things we can do. These are from a list of questions that appear in my April 1 blog:
     9. On all other Passovers after the Matzoh is broken, a piece goes missing and must be found by the children … Why must the children search in multiple houses on this night?

My challenge for Passover is to think out of the box, literally. Normally, during the Passover Seder the Afikoman is snatched and hidden. But what if the grandkids are not in your house - How can they search for the hidden Matzoh? It could be that the leader of the Seder would respond to the children’s instructions of “turn right” or “go straight” along with the “Hot” or “Cold” remarks, but why not think out of the house? This year, the Afikomen could be snatched virtually. This takes coordination. What is important for proof that the Matzoh is actually the same is the wrapping … it must be in the same covering.

Here is what you must do: The leader and one of the attendees will coordinate the hiding of the Matzoh. When the Matzoh is “snatched,” it disappears out of the house. The search can begin within the house, but when all leads are exhausted, the leader should hint at, “Did someone reach in through the computer and move the Afikomen to their house?” A series of questions, and a continued search can ensue … with denials, and cell phone texts and calls as grandchildren look in their own homes for the Afikomen. Make it challenging and fun!

This is a chance to show off things within each person’s homes, that might not be noticed in a normal visit. Allow the search time to be completed.

10. On all other Passovers we open one door to welcome Elijah … why on this night do we open many doors for the great prophet?

Normally at our Seder, all the children open the door together in order to greet Elijah. But this year is different! There will be children at every house served by our virtual Seder. What can you do? Send them each to their own doors, along with the computer or cell phone video. But can we do more?

Think about how you would greet a special visitor at your home. With song, with signs, confetti, in your pajamas, in a tuxedo? You get the idea. We are to think outside the box, and make a show virtually. Let the door openers use props, songs, or drama at the door. Plan a virtual award for the most creative welcome for Elijah. This should make the Passover Seder lots of fun!

Thinking outside of what we normally do, that is what my newest book, Psalmatic Seder is about. Many of my readings said, “the Passover Seder is not really that old … it came into the form we use in the Middle Ages.” As I thought about these articles I was reading, I thought about the Book of Psalms, possibly dating to the time of the first Temple, definitely written before 200 BC. Psalm 78 and 105 are actually Passover Haggadahs. THese formed the basis for this Haggadah. The Seder follows the normal 15 steps (and unsurprisingly, so does the Book of Psalms) so I followed this format, but used some different verses. This presentation will produce a familiar, but refreshing Passover Celebration. Please look up the Psalmatic Seder on Amazon.com

Pesach from Psalms, a new idea!

A Virtual Reality Passover Seder

Before Passover we remove the chomaytz, clean the house, change out the dishes, plan and cook the perfect menu, dress up the table with a table cloth, cloth napkins, silver, our finest china, best glasses, and sometimes even name placards (even though everyone knows each other). We are not happy until everything is perfectly in place. BUT This Pesach is different!

Each family will set their own table, plan their own menu, and take charge of things in their homes, which will be displayed on the computer screen. Which says, what I have mentioned before - put the effort into the Seder event, and it will be great! But it will not be perfect … The first time we attempt something new, it never is. There is a lot to be learned.

I want to look at how it can become more real, and a place where the room real will not carry across (and can even be controlled).

4. On all other Passovers we clink the wine glass and share l’chaims four times during the Seder, and multiple times before and after … Why on this night are the glasses not from the same set?  (for full list of questions, see blog for April 1)

On Passover (and at other times) we make a big deal about saying the kiddish and drinking the wine. We often lift glasses after the prayer with a l’chaim and a clink. We should still do that! The computer screen is glass. To properly clink wine glasses, even across 2,000 miles or more, a) notice where the little camera is on your computer; b) bring the glass to the camera window and the screen; and c) clink. You can even pause for a moment (a short, fraction of a second) when the wine glass approaches the camera (starting about ½ inch from the lens). This gives a nice effect. The clink is real (whether the computer is made of plastic or steel, it will clink, and so will the screen), just be sure you don’t clink too hard … you don’t want to break the wine glass or the computer. Remember, even though some of our families are miles away, the joy and festivity should be real. If we practice that real from the first glass of wine all the way through to the fourth glass, the enthusiasm will build, and we might not even realize how many miles separate us from the ones we love.

7. On all other Passovers we sing the Dayenu loudly and off key until we run out of words (which is more than enuff), and it sounds horrible … Why on this night do we have volume control?

OK … the singing might not be like real. Computers miss out on the room effect of music, because or voices fill the space naturally, rather than making electronic static on a computer. IF good speakers are connected to the computer (by Bluetooth … you can even do stereo or surround sound - something to plan early), the quality will be much better, even though it is not the same.

And then there is the matter of losing control to someone else. If your voice is not good, and you enjoy booming out the tune so loudly it covers up your sister’s voice … well, it is not the same. Your sister will turn down the volume on her computer (or even mute you! Oy vey), which is not Kosher (although my sister says it is, which is natural and right, for some of these arguments happen on Passover night).

On this Passover night we will just have to put up with losing control on the other person’s computer. But … we can call (see questions 1 & 3, blogged about on April 2) in order to kvetch.

Speaking of music, I developed a Haggadah from Psalms (a New Haggadah in an older format than what we use today). It contains 17 traditional songs with music notation from the Passover Haggadah. I would appreciate if you take a look in the preview mode on Amazon, and maybe even buy a copy, just to see what it is. Please look up the Psalmatic Seder on Amazon.com

  

A new Musical Haggadah for Passover

A Passover in forced Diaspora

There is no doubt about it, this Pesach will be different than any other. The joyous festivity that comes from interaction as a family, following of traditions, the telling of the story, and a great dinner will not be the same this year. The family will be separated and the fantastic feast will be downsized. BUT it can be more that what we think, just different.

As an educator and a participant of many Seders, I want to bring us as close to normal as possible. I think many of us are already understand that one solution is a video app on social media. I want to lay out some ideas on how to use this tool to bring a degree of normalcy to our Passover eve.

Two days ago, I made a list of questions to help us in re-creating a quality Seder in the midst of troubling times. In the answers of these questions, I hope to pull out usable ideas to bring togetherness even when we are separated from extended family. If you have other ideas, please use comment section to share with others, and help us all do a better job this year at our Seders. Also, read the ten questions from April 1, and five following days for answers (two per day).

2. On all other Passovers we light one candle or two … why on this night of Passover do we light many candles, and who says the blessing?

One of the important things that needs to happen this year at our Seders is duplication. Don’t try to take shortcuts … it will lead to loss. When you use Social Media to guide Passover Seders in multiple homes, each home needs to have all the accompanying props. This begins with the candles.

As the Seder gets underway, one person (the person who normally does this) should say the blessing and light the candle. That is, on the main computer for Passover eve (see yesterday’s blog).

Each home represented during the evening also needs candles, as close as possible to what is normally used. Virtual candles are … virtual. There is something about the presence of an actual flame that fascinates us. The flame wavers with the environment of the room, and we are fascinated by its dance. Each clandle burns on its own time table. One of the games we played at a Shabbos dinner was to notice when each person’s candle went out, and watched the smoke. Don’t shortchange the props. Every house needs to have them.

The candles can be lighted with one blessing (given on the main computer), and lighted simultaneously.

6. On all other Passovers we each take a nosh from a big fancy Seder plate set by the big fluffy matzoh tosh … Why on this night must we set our specialty foods on a dainty side dish?

The thought on the candle needs to continue with the Seder plate and Matzoh. Each prop and item needs to be duplicated. Although the Seder can be led from across the street, or from thousands of miles away, the food must be tasted by our tongues. Each home should have a Seder plate with all the elements. If there is a family recipe (for the Charosis), it should be shared. Each family needs its own shank bone and Matzoh, also. Wine should be available on all tables, and refilled at appropriate times.

The tastes and sounds of the Seder creates the proper environment. The secret for today is, don’t take shortcuts.

While each family should use its normal Haggadah (and have a copy for each person, like normal), I developed a Haggadah from Psalms (a New Haggadah in an older format than what we use today). I would appreciate you taking a look in the preview mode on Amazon, and maybe even buing a copy, just to see what it is. Please look up the Psalmatic Seder on Amazon.com

The Virtual Passover

Why is this night different than all other nights? On all past Passover nights we gathered as a family and friends in someone’s home to enjoy the festivity, the food and to participate in the Pesach Haggadah together. This year is different! We are like slaves in bondage, confined in our homes and practicing social distancing for fear of the Coronavirus. But it does not have to be this way!

In the past we might have been forced to do the Seder alone, or as a small group … but this year we have technology! There are multiple platforms available so we can do the Passover together. We have never celebrated Passover in this way before … But as an educator, I have led other events, and want to use my experience to maintain the greatness and quality of this festival.

In the spirit of the four questions and Ten things that plague us in the midst of the pandemic this year, I created a list of questions to be answered over the next five days (two per day). The information shared in the answers will help us to have a decent Seder, although not all we dreamed of. The list of questions can be found in yesterday’s blog.

Today’s theme is how to maintain closeness and relationships, even when we are apart.

On all other Passovers we greet each other with hugs and kisses (including those from bubble which are always slobbery) in person or through the cell phone … why on this night only through the cell phone?

In former times, when I was young my family used to gather at my uncle’s home, where my father, his brother,their wives, six children and my grandmother used to spend the afternoon with each other, before sitting down for the teachings of the Seder and a grand meal. As a child, I came to know and appreciate my cousins during this time together.

So what about bubble's slobbery kiss? Well, it can still happen. How so, you ask, when we are required to keep our social distancing. The answer is by cell phone. Using our cell phones, with video on, we can show our faces, and Grandma, on her end can kiss the screen of the phone (make sure she has wipes available). The end result here might be better than what is normal, for the children’s cheeks stay dry, and no infection is passed.

Actually the cell phone or tablet can be used for a variety of socialization activities. There can be games, conversations, and created events as the cousins, and others invited to the Seder socialize and plot together. This year, like all other years can be a time of conversation and relationship building. And in the years to come will be a matter of conversations and story telling due to our creativity in orchestrating a memorable event.


On all other Passovers we sit across the table and fill the room with great conversation, sometimes with increasing volume just to hear and be heard … Why on this night do we need a computer and a cell phone?

Continuing from the thought shared above, we need to realize that our time around the table is not spent strictly focused on the teachings of the Haggadah or what the Seder leader has to say. We carry on side conversations, tell jokes and make comments on the teacher. We should not lose that feature of our evening.

So how can we capture the normal goings on of the evening?

First, there should be a set teacher for the evening. A social media platform should be used on a computer (not a cell phone) because the screen is larger and because the cell phone needs to be available for other purposes. A laptop computer should be made available at each home, on the table, with a view of as many people as possible. This gives visual cues, like members of the family are sitting across the table from each other.

Everything official needs to occur through this media, one the central computer. The reading of the Haggadah should be done as normally as possible. The leader should respond to the story with jokes, stories and anecdotes as usual. This makes for consistency, and the quality of the teaching.

BUT it should be remembered that the teaching is not all that goes on.

Each participant also needs a cell phone. They can call family members at other houses to make side comments, tell jokes, and maintain all manner of banter as normal. This can be by text or talk. It must be done quietly, as an undercurrent, as is normal at the table. If it is too loud, it can be called down. The leader just needs to remember, not every phone call or text needs to be commented on … in fact most should be overlooked, and the story will go on.

The more years we celebrate the Passover, the more familiar we are, so participants will not lose their places. They will continue relationship building. And in an unusual time, some elements of normalcy can continue.

More tomorrow.

Before I go, I need to promote a different Haggadah, one from the book of Psalms. It is a research project of mine, to see what Passover eve looked like in the time of the first Temple. Not surprisingly, it was much the same. That means the kisses of bubble, the banter of the cousins, and the high level discussions of the parents occurred back then, just as it does today. And the Haggadah … well, it was memorized, and told in poetic form, like what is found in the book of Psalms. Look up the Psalmatic Seder on Amazon.com

A New Haggadah with Music from Psalms

Virtual Seder

How can this night of Passover be the same as all other Passovers … but Different!

1. On all other Passovers we greet each other with hugs and kisses (including those from bubbe which are always slobbery) in person or through the cell phone … why on this night only through the cell phone?

2. On all other Passovers we light one candle or two … why on this night of Passover do we light many candles, and who says the blessing?

3. On all other Passovers we sit across the table and fill the room with great conversation, sometimes with increasing volume just to hear and be heard … Why on this night do we need a computer and a cell phone?

4. On all other Passovers we clink the wine glass and share l’chaims four times during the Seder, and multiple times before and after … Why on this night are the glasses not from the same set?

5. On all other Passovers we converse around the room and share the Haggadah together … Why on this Passover will we converse from house to house?

6. On all other Passovers we each take a nosh from a big fancy Seder plate set by the big fluffy matzoh tosh … Why on this night must we set our specialty foods on a dainty side dish?

7. On all other Passovers we sing the Dayenu loudly and off key until we run out of words (which is more than enuff), and it sounds horrible … Why on this night do we have volume control?

8. On all other Passovers either bubbe does all the cooking, or we each bring our favorite dishes … Why on this Passover do we share recipes, each cook our own and share the tastes?

9. On all other Passovers after the Matzoh is broken, a piece goes missing and must be found by the children … Why must the children search in multiple houses on this night?

10. On all other Passovers we open one door to welcome Elijah … why on this night do we open many doors for the great prophet.

A new Passover Haggadah for the Musically inclined

With the dangers of Coronavirus invading our lives this Passover Season, the evening will be different. Although we can not be physically present with our family, we can be with them virtually. I will do that with my family, and also some friends. I thought about this … because I do not want the evening to flop, so over the next few days, I will answer the questions above, and a few more. Planning ahead will prevent the dull spots and the failures of this evening, and help us do it right. If you have suggestions, or ideas, please write them in the comment section. Through sharing together this can be a great Passover evening.

Plagued by the Plagues

Are you a creature of habit, or do you have a desire to learn. I have found that in order to learn, we must leave the familiar and normal in order to experience and examine something new. Take the Passover Seder. Is your evening Seder the same every year? Can you recite it from memory? Perhaps it is time to try something new.

A new Haggadah looks at Pesach through a different lens
 published in 2020

What can you learn? Have you ever really looked at the progression of ‘miracles’ God sent to visit the land of Egypt? The order in the book of Exodus, and the Passover Haggadah is pretty straight forward: blood, frogs, lice, flies, livestock pestilence, boils, hail, locusts, darkness and the killing of firstborn children.

During the evening of Passover, as we go through the story of the Exodus according to the Haggadah, we recite the ten plagues in order, doling out a drop of wine on our plates for each of the ten plagues. (Our cups can not be full and the joy in our hearts can not be complete during this part of the seder because of the suffering visited upon the Egyptians through the ten plagues). Through repetition, I have committed the ten plagues to memory in order because we recite them every year.

Until I began to compare the standard Haggadah with the Seder as found in Psalms, I thought the order was straightforward and standard. I discovered it was not. Compare three lists of plagues:

Exodus                 Psalm 78               Psalm 105

Blood                   Blood                    Darkness
Frogs                    Flies                     Blood
Lice                     Frogs                     Fish
Flies                    Grasshopper           Frogs
Cattle                  Locust                    Flies
Boils                   Hail                       Gnats
Hail                     Sleet                      Hail
Locusts                Cattle                    Fruit
Darkness              Lightning              Locusts
Death                  Death                    Death

Why the difference? It could be poetic license. It could be that the order was not standard. It could be what was important in the mind of the author. It could be influenced by historical crises at the time of writing. It could be there were different lists. It is worth wondering about and studying. The three lists show that the authors did not collaborate, and that each portion of scripture was composed independently.

The important thing is that God did use His strength to display miracles which brought about our freedom. The actions of God were direct assaults on the gods of Egypt. Perhaps this is the reason some of the plagues are different. Curiosity causes learning.

In the Psalmatic Haggadah, I have chosen to follow the standard format of the traditional Passover. Verses are listed next to each Plague, because they are not in order. But they are all there, nothing is left out. And we are left at the end celebrating the miracles of God.

I invite you to join me for a different look at Passover this year. The difference will bring learning by looking at the Seder through a different lens. Consider how the Psalmist thought about Pesach long ago, possibly as early as the days the descendants of King David reigned in Jerusalem.

A New Haggadah

As people in the world think about a plague (Coronavirus) which has multiplied itself ten times over, my mind has started to work on Passover (May the plague passover!). I have written a new Haggadah, The Psalmatic Seder. Why does the world need a new Haggadah, you ask … are there not enough.

A New Passover Haggadah

I answer, because this Haggadah is different than all other Haggadahs.

All other Haggadahs are guided by a Rabbinic tradition that began to set itself near the end of the Second Temple period (70 AD), and reached its high point in the Middle ages. That is when the order and words of the Seder were set (according to many scholars). Some say that the actual service is not much older, a conclusion I object to, because I think that some of our traditions go back to those 40 years of wandering in the Desert.

I assembled this Haggadah to show the service is older. I found two Passover Services in the Book of Psalms, that are not much different than the one we celebrate today. The order of teaching is not much different in Psalms 78 and 105-6, than what we do today … which leads me to see a Seder that was practiced in the days of the Kings of Israel, maybe 700 BC.

This Haggadah is different than most others because it contains more music, 17 songs. Because the words of the Haggadah come from the book of Psalms, I was inspired to look up music that has been sung across the years at Passover Seders. Our seder today is quite wordy, and does not contain much music. The Psalmatic Haggadah contains the words of the songs and musical scores, so they can be played. (They can also be found on Youtube, for a very musical Seder!)

This Haggadah is different from all others, because you probably have not used it before (since it has only now come into print), and so it will be fresh. While the order of the Seder service is the traditional order, the words are different, but many are totally from the Bible, and even older than any Haggadah we have today. (Is older more traditional?)

This Haggadah can make your Passover Eve different! It can bring new ideas and understandings. It can make you think about our freedom in new ways. It is worth a try!

A Forced Isolation

A man in the Bible who endured forced isolation, and therefore, who can be an example to us in these trying times is the Apostle John. This disciple of Jesus lived an incredible life which included great blessings and horrific trials. The elder teacher writes about different ways to face diseases, isolation through exile and imprisonment. He offers wisdom learned through experience that can be very valuable as we endure the most recent hardships of life.

Most people are somewhat familiar with John, the beloved disciple of Jesus. John was a fisherman who worked for his father, Zebedee, and alongside his brother James and friends Peter and Andrew. These four men were the earliest disciples of Jesus. And John, who was characterized with great innate intuition was probably the closest of all the Savior’s disciples.

The Sea of Galilee at Capernaum

The Apostle John grew up in a very distinct social setting. He lived in a small community on the north side of the Sea of Galilee. He was a member of the Jewish community which is infused with rich traditions and set customs. Members of tight knit social groups are fine, as long as they abide within their groups. Jesus, and life helped John to move beyond this setting.

Beyond early discipleship, some of the first steps Jesus brought into John’s life were short trips, through Samaria to Jerusalem, and at times beyond the borders of Israel. John met the Samaritan Woman at the well, the Demoniac who lived among the toms in Gentile Decapolis, and also Centurions who respected and related to Jesus. John learned how to work with the multitude of Jesus’ followers, and he also learned how to incorporate spiritual teachings into his life during trying times, such as when Jesus was persecuted.

Following the death of Jesus, John learned how to lead a church. In the New Testament, we catch snapshots of John, as he is arrested and put in prison with Jesus, as he reaches out the the beggar at the beautiful gate of the Temple, and as he deals with racial and religious differences that existed between Hebraic and Hellenistic Jewish Christians. John rises to a level of distinction as a leader within the early Church. John heard and helped guide men such as the Apostle Paul, who came with new and different ideas, He learned how to guid an organization that grew from a local band of followers into a world wide church.

John began to learn about persecutions and self-isolation during the days of his brother’s death about 14 years after Jesus died on the cross. Acts 12 records, “King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.” John and the disciples went into hiding, during the persecution.

The persecutions never really stopped after that. John had to practice social distancing for safety at all times, and especially when danger showed its face. When other disciples left Jerusalem to reach out to the world, John, Peter and James the brother of Jesus stayed, in order to lead the church.

Then came the first Jewish–Roman Wa (AD 66-70). John, along with others in Israel faced times which were far more trying than anything we are seeing today. The conflict began with anti-taxation protests in Galilee. John probably knew some of the instigators. It spread as Governor Gessius Florus looted the Temple, causing more rioting. The Roman army was called out to put down the rebellion. John must have left Jerusalem (because he remembered the teachings of Jesus) before the hard times and the destruction of Israel’s Priesthood and Temple. John was probably the only disciple of Jesus to experience these hardships.

Through the hardships, John was forced to leave his homeland and his sanctuary of normalcy, culture, language, and friends. He moved to the city of Ephesus in Asia Minor for safety. He was an old man of at least 55 years old, and maybe 65, an age where major changes are hard. But John withstood this, and through prayer, allowed God to strengthen him.

He became a bold witness, until he was finally arrested and exiled to a prison island called Patmos. John wrote, “I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” He told his followers that trials are likely to come upon us like a thief in the night. He said the secret to survival in hard times is to “stay awake and remain clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.”

John’s imprisonment was something like the enforced confinement at home during our modern plague of Coronavirus. It was something he had no control over. John told the people at Philadelphia to “endure patiently.” He knew the trial would pass. We are told Jesus cared for the woman in Revelation 12, by preparing a place where she could go into isolation. “The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be taken care of for a time, times and half a time, out of the serpent’s reach. “

Those in the world who do not place their trust in God, react much differently than those of faith. John wrote that when people faced trials in Revelation 6, ”The kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and everyone else, both slave and free, hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us for the great day of wrath has come, and who can withstand it?” Later he writes, “They cursed God on account of the plague of hail, because the plague was so terrible.”

Fearing people needed a hero because they are without a God whom they can trust. John wrote, “One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was filled with wonder and followed the beast. People worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, ‘Who is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?’” Of course the Beast could not win the war … only God can win against the worst of enemies.

In times of trials, our faith in God makes all of the difference. And our faith can be seen. “one of the elders asked me, ‘These in white robes—who are they, and where did they come from?’” Jesus answered, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white …

they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night … and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. … For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”



Where is your faith in these times of trial? Is it with God or with man. The book, “Spring: Connecting With God” can explain more about survival in trying times.

When Things are Hopeless, There are Friends!

Pandemics are not respectors of people. In every age throughout history disease has impacted the wealthy and the poor alike. The wealthy, because they travel to diverse regions and pick up sicknesses unknown at home. The poor, because they live in cramped quarters where disease spreads easily from house to house. We are experiencing this today with Coroanavirus, as we did in the past with the Ebola (2014), MERS (2012), Swine Flu (2009), SARS (2002), Hong Kong flu (1968), Spanish Flu (1918), Yellow Fever (1668, 1793, 1878, 1898)

The above diseases (and others) have resulted in terrible physical suffering, many deaths, and great loneliness. One of the results of sickness is isolation, whether self-imposed, brought about because of physical weakness, or caused by fear of infection (so people stop visiting). If a disease goes on long enough, acquaintances and friends stop visiting because their life has gone in other directions. (Friendship is often a two way street. If one of the friends is too sick to stay in contact, the other friend forgets to call).

But sometimes friends come from unexpected places. Consider the case of Naaman, commander of the armies of Ben-Hadad II of Syria in 850BC. This great man was stricken with the feared disease called Leprosy in the Bible (see my last blog post), a communicable disease which required quarantine. When his sickness was discovered, his friends backed away in fear, because it was contagious. Naaman was forced into isolation.

However, one of his wife’s servants, a slave-girl who was captured in Israel during one of Naaman’s raids, felt sorry for him. Crossing social, ethnic, religious, and strict social barriers, this girl sent a message to the great commander that she knew of a prophet in her home country that could bring him healing.

Naaman was ecstatic. He was willing to try anything to get well. He contacted King Ben-Hadad II, who sent an order for king Joram in Samaria to receive leoprous Naaman, and provide him proper introduction to the prophet-healer. Naaman took “ten talents of silver, six thousand shekel of gold and ten sets of clothing.” to provide for his healing.

King Joram, who had to meet Naaman was in fear of the disease. When his messenger gave Ben Hadad’s order to the king, he blurted out, “Am I God? Can I kill and bring back to life? Why does this fellow send someone to me to be cured of his leprosy? See how he is trying to pick a quarrel with me!” And he dragged his feet, making the general with the feared disease wait.

But God spoke to Elisha, on behalf of the servant girl who befriended Naaman, and the prophet sent this message to the king, “Why have you torn your robes? Have the man come to me and he will know that there is a prophet in Israel.” King Joram gladly sent Naaman away to the prophet.

Naaman was told, “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan,” a place considered a muddy creek by the aristocratic Syrians. Naaman debated, “Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Couldn’t I wash in them and be cleansed?” He turned away in rage, and headed home.

The Muddy Jordan River near where Jesus was baptized

But at the bequest of the servant-girl who befriended the great general, other servants told him, ““If the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!” So Naaman went to the Jordan River and was cleansed. (2 Kings 5)

The Bible never records whether Naaman thanked or freed the servant-girl. She risked her life out of obedience to God, who desires for us to befriend others who are in need. It does not matter if we like them or if they like us. It does not matter if they are above us or below us in status. They are people in need. As the Coronavirus takes hold in our community, we need to listen for needs, and help our neighbors. Look for people who are sick, and get them help. Look for people out of work and meet their needs. Look for those in fear, and bring calmness for their spirits. Be a neighbor and a friend, like the servant-girl in this time of need.

The big thing is to hear God. I speak more about this in my book: Spring: Connecting with God. If you have time during the crisis, read this book, available in paperback or on kindle reader.

Self Quarantine in the Bible

Self Isolation orders are being imposed in the United States and around the world. This methodology is being used to fight a terrible disease. This is not the first time social distancing has been used for protection of society and personal safety. Self and community imposition of restricted movement can be found in many places and for many reasons in Scripture.

The Desert of Zin, a place Israel might have visited when distanced.

Government ordered restrictions for health reasons were imposed by Moses in the Bible. The disease of the day that brought about the need for isolation was leprosy. This highly communicable disease begins with “a swelling or a rash or a shiny spot” on the skin. Anyone infected must go to the Priest for testing. If the test is positive, “the priest is to isolate the affected person” for fourteen days, with a visit for observation in the middle. (Numbers 13)

Social distancing was imposed on people with confirmed leprosy until they were either cured or died. There were enough people with the disease in Israel that colonies were formed. (2 Kings 7:3) The diseased person was ordered to “wear torn clothes and let his hair hang loose, and he must cover his mouth and cry out, 'Unclean, unclean!'” (Leviticus 13:45) The quarantined person was forced to live outside the city. Some of these people eventually came together and formed a community of illness.

Forced quarantine was imposed on people for a multitude of reasons in the Bible. One interesting case is that of Noah and his family (Genesis 6-9). God placed Noah and his family into isolation in an ark in order to prevent an infection from evil that had become rampant in the world. The healthy family was placed in an Ark, so they would not be infected. They were confined for almost a year before they were released.

In a similar fashion, the Hebrew people were isolated from the world during their forty year journey in the wilderness. Through Israel’s social distancing God was able to create a nation of people who were taught about healthy living while in the desert. Moses instructed this band of former slaves in all matters of wellness: spiritual, mental, social and physical health.

The Bible tells of many people who choose to self-isolate for wellness and betterment in life. It should be noted that these people had a plan when they went into seclusion. They had a dream of using their time apart from others that would better them. The Bible tells of how Jesus socially distanced himself (and sometimes his disciples) many times. These were to prepare the teacher for times of trials, or when strength is needed.

It appears to me that troublesome days are upon our nation. Many have gone into isolation (by force or by choice). We could all use a plan that will help us come through these days of trial for the better and not for the worse. Spring: Connecting with God tells about things that will make a nation strong in times of crises.

Is the World Sick?

The world seems to have gone crazy … a new disease is attacking … the CoronaVirus. Is there anything that can be done? Our medical community is working, governments of the world are attempting to solve the problem, but is there anything I can do?

The answer is yes. One answer seems to be to stay in and to self isolate, in order to prevent yourself from getting sick [and if you are sick, to prevent the spread of this illness to others]. Tourist transportation is shutting down, schools are closing, and most religious organizations have shuttered their doors this weekend. Are you stir crazy yet?

As the world has shut down, many of us have slowed down … for a week or two … we are preventing illness from spreading. But maybe we are looking at this in the negative. Is there a positive?

Yes, there is a positive. We are able to chip away at all the things we have put off at home. The lists we have made, and put off until tomorrow can now be worked on. Our yards can be cleaned up. We can stream the movies we have wanted to see, and also we now have time to pick up a good book.

While the world is on lock-down and self-isolation, the opportunity has arisen not to prevent CoronaVirus, but to seek health! While all else is on hold, we now have the chance to help ourselves physically (exercise), mentally (a good book) and spiritually. The world has seen problems before. Often people turn to things that make them devolve (James 1:6-9). The Bible would instruct us to look towards God so we can improve (James 1:2-5). “ Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life” and not a corona (crown) virus.

Our world has faced many problems before. The book, Spring: Connecting with God can help in today’s situation, by giving perspective. The book takes a look at past crises, and how the decisions of people and leaders resulted in either status-quo … or something better, as the crisis abated.

What will it be for you? Will this lock-down improve you? Or when we are past the calamity will you just return to normal?