Parashat Ki Tavo (When You Come)
D’varim (Deuteronomy) 26:1-19:8
Haftarah: Isaiah 60:1-22

This week’s Torah portion focuses on the profound relationship between obedience to God and the resulting blessings, as well as the consequences of disobedience. In Deuteronomy 28, we see 14 verses dedicated to the blessings that come from honoring God’s commandments, and a striking 54 verses warning of the curses that follow when we turn away from Him. These passages speak not only to the ancient Israelites but also to us today—God’s heart is still focused on His people walking in love, humility, and obedience.

When we consider the current situation in Israel, these prophetic themes from scripture seem to echo loudly. We live in challenging times, with conflict, uncertainty, and darkness often overshadowing the blessings we know are part of God’s promises. Yet, it’s precisely in these moments of darkness that the words of the prophet Isaiah provide profound guidance and hope:

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and His glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
Isaiah 60:1-3

This passage doesn’t simply speak of physical light but of spiritual illumination that comes from walking closely with God. The darkness Isaiah describes isn’t just external forces but also internal struggles—fear, despair, and doubt—that many in Israel, and around the world, are feeling today. Yet, in the midst of these difficulties, God calls His people to rise up, to reflect His light, and to show the world His faithfulness.

In today’s complex reality, Israel is not only a nation navigating political and security challenges but also a spiritual beacon. The prophetic words of Isaiah call Israel and all who are grafted into God’s covenant to be a light to the nations. This doesn’t mean pretending hardships don’t exist; it means rising in faith despite them. When the world is watching, God’s people have the opportunity to testify of His love, power, and blessings even in the midst of trials.

This moment of rising up, of shining God’s light, is not just about survival—it’s about thriving in the knowledge that God’s promises remain true. Deuteronomy 28:10 tells us that when we walk in obedience to God, "all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by the name of the Lord." Our faithfulness becomes a testimony that draws others to seek the same light we reflect.

In times of great abundance, Deuteronomy warns us not to forget God, but the same is true in times of hardship. The blessings of God are given so that we might glorify Him and become a living witness to the nations. The trials we face can either obscure our light or, if we trust in God’s promises, cause it to shine even brighter.

Israel’s role in this prophetic vision is as crucial today as it was in the time of Isaiah. The light we are called to reflect isn’t just for ourselves—it’s for the nations. In a world increasingly filled with darkness, uncertainty, and confusion, the call to rise and shine has never been more urgent. By serving God with joyful hearts, by keeping our trust in His sovereignty, we testify not only of His goodness but of His ultimate plan for redemption and peace.

The nations will come to His light, as Isaiah says, because they will witness something different in those who are faithful: a strength that is rooted in God, a peace that passes understanding, and a love that reflects His heart. In this way, the people of Israel, and all who stand with her, become living witnesses of God’s glory, drawing others to the light of His truth.

May we rise to the call of God’s light, standing firm in faith and reflecting His blessings so that others might be drawn to His presence, even in the darkest of times.

Shabbat Shalom,
Moran