Dear Graceview family,
As we reflect on the many ways our faith guides us, I want to touch on a topic that, while not always at the forefront of our minds, is deeply significant: the relationship between our Christian faith and the Jewish people. This connection is one that we often take for granted, but it’s essential to remember the deep roots of our spiritual heritage.
Earlier, we heard from Jorge Sedaca of Chosen People Ministries, whose message offered us valuable insights into God’s ongoing plan for Israel and its people. As Christians, we are blessed to share in the rich heritage of the Jewish tradition. The Scriptures, the history of the Israelites, and the life of Jesus, who was Himself Jewish, form the bedrock of our faith.
This shared history invites us to consider our responsibility in standing against anti-Semitism, a prejudice that has, regrettably, persisted throughout history. Our spiritual connection with the Jewish people makes it imperative for us to challenge and resist any form of discrimination against them. The rise of anti-Semitism today is a reminder for us all to stand firm in our commitment to justice and love.
I found it intriguing to learn that Jorge’s surname, “Sedaca,” originates from the Hebrew word “צְדָקָה [Tsedakah],” which means righteousness. This term is a key concept that frequently appears in the Bible. It serves as a subtle reminder that pursuing righteousness and justice is central to our Christian walk, particularly when it comes to addressing prejudice.
As we ponder the message from earlier, I encourage us to deepen our engagement with the Old Testament, the Jewish Bible. It can be challenging at times to reconcile the image of God as presented in the Old Testament with the all-loving nature of God in the New Testament. There may even be moments when we’re tempted to set the Old Testament aside. But both Testaments are integral to our understanding of God’s character—His justice, His mercy, and His unwavering love. Together, they provide a complete picture of God’s plan for humanity, a plan that culminates in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Let us, therefore, commit to greater understanding and respect for the Jewish people, recognizing that we all share in God’s divine family. May we be guided by the Holy Spirit to love our neighbours, seek justice, and live in the righteousness to which we are called.
In Christ’s love and service,
The Rev. Eric Lee
“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
- Proverbs 21:3 NRSV