Vayikra - And the One Calls

The work of the Mishkan, the sacred dwelling, is complete.

The fire is lit.
The altar is set.
And we are called to draw close.

To draw close and make our offerings.
To lay on the altar what yearns to be transformed.

To draw close and lay on the altar stories that say we aren’t enough,
     Doubts and judgments that keep us hidden and small.

To draw close and lay on the altar the distracting thoughts,
The clutter of the mind,
The regrets and worries that steal our energy and time.

To draw close and place on the altar habits
That distort our vision and harden our hearts.

And to lay on the altar the guilt and shame
That clings to our misdeeds.

The fire is lit.
The altar is set.
And it is not easy to let go of habits,
Thoughts, stories and patterns,
Even when they no longer serve.

So let us approach gently, one step at a time.
And ask for guidance and help
As we draw close to the fires of possibility
And lay on the altar all that yearns to be transformed.

--Rabbi Yael Levy