As I reflected on this week’s Torah portion, I noticed a profound connection between the Parashah and Haftarah regarding God's call, His holiness, and our dedication to His purpose. It is crucial for us to continually recognize that He has called us, that He is holy, and that we must be fully committed to His divine call.

Before exploring the passages, I want to highlight Exodus 19:10-11:

The LORD also said to Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and have them wash their garments; and have them ready for the third day, for on the third day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.”

This passage underscores the necessity of preparation—both external and internal—as we approach God. Washing our garments and immersing ourselves in spiritual purification reminds us of the significance of readiness for divine encounters. Notably, this mighty event occurred on the third day, a pattern that holds deep theological significance.

In this Parashah, we read about God's call to the children of Israel:

And Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain, saying, “This is what you shall say to the house of Jacob and tell the sons of Israel: ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings, and brought you to Myself. Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own jewel (treasure) among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.”
Exodus 19:3–6

God has always called Israel to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, through whom His holiness would be displayed. His holiness sets the standard for His people, and in Exodus, we begin to see His precise precepts to guide Israel in righteous living.

In Exodus 20, God speaks directly to Israel, revealing the Ten Commandments. However, their response is striking:

And all the people were watching and hearing the thunder and the lightning flashes, and the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking; and when the people saw it all, they trembled and stood at a distance.
Exodus 20:18

Overwhelmed by God's majesty, Israel feared for their lives and pleaded with Moses to mediate God’s words. Moses reassures them:

Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you will not sin.
Exodus 20:20

God’s intent was never to terrify His people but to instill reverence that leads to holy living. His call is not just about obedience but about devotion rooted in awe and love.

In the Haftarah, we read about Isaiah’s divine vision:

In the year of King Uzziah’s death I saw the LORD sitting on a throne, lofty and exalted, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim were standing above Him, each having six wings: with two each covered his face, and with two each covered his feet, and with two each flew. And one called out to another and said, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of armies. The whole earth is full of His glory.” And the foundations of the thresholds trembled at the voice of him who called out, while the temple was filling with smoke.
Isaiah 6:1–4

Like Israel at Sinai, Isaiah was overwhelmed. Yet, unlike Israel, Isaiah recognized his own sinfulness:

Then I said, “Woe to me, for I am lost, because I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of armies.”
Isaiah 6:5

What stands out is Isaiah’s humility—his acknowledgment of his unworthiness before God’s holiness. But God, in His mercy, purifies him:

Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a burning coal in his hand, which he had taken from the altar with tongs. He touched my mouth with it and said, “Behold, this has touched your lips; and your guilt is taken away and atonement is made for your sin.” Then I heard the voice of the LORD, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Isaiah 6:6–8

Isaiah’s response is significant. Once purified, he does not hesitate—he immediately answers God's call. This readiness should serve as a model for us in responding to God’s call.

The Haftarah concludes with a prophecy of the coming King:

For a child is born to us, a Son is given to us; dominion will rest on His shoulders, and He will be given the name Pele-Yo‘etz (Wonder-Counselor) El Gibbor (Mighty God) Avi-‘Ad (Everlasting Father) Sar-Shalom (Prince of Peace). Of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end, on the throne of David, and in His kingdom, to establish it, and to sustain it with judgment and with righteousness from that time on, and forever. The zeal of Adonai Tsevaot will perform this.
Isaiah 9:6-7

God sent His Son to fulfill this prophecy, and from the moment He came, His government and peace continue to increase without end. As believers, we must not take this truth for granted. Instead, we must prepare ourselves and others for His return.

Dear brothers and sisters, in closing, I urge you to remember that God has called us to His service. He is a holy God, and we must serve Him with fear, reverence, and unwavering dedication. Whatever task He has given you, embrace it with a humble heart that seeks His holiness.

Let us examine our hearts and attitudes to ensure that our lives reflect the One whom we are called to represent on this earth. As we prepare ourselves for His coming, may we also prepare others, sharing His message with courage and compassion.

Shabbat Shalom,
Moran