Minyan Power: Making a World of Difference for the Good

Dear Friends,

How can I make a difference?  It’s a huge world out there…There is so much to do…How can I possibly make a difference?

If we are concerned with this question, our weekly Torah portion,Vayera, gives us all a nudge in the right direction – a nudge that comes in the form of a biblical story.

Remember the story of Sodom and Gemorrah?  Abraham argued with God that if there were at least 10 righteous people in Sodom, God should spare the entire city.  Or, to put it another way…If there were at least a minyan, a small group of dedicated people, in Sodom, that would be enough to generate hope that the city might be able to turn itself around and become a place of blessing in the world.

A small group of dedicated people can have incredible power.  By working together, its members may help us to motivate a city, a congregation, a community, or even the entire world, to start being more constructive instead of remaining indifferent to the evils that may surround us.

In a world full of indifference, a small group of people dedicated to good works can make a world of difference for the good. 

Within Rodef Sholom Temple, or beyond the borders of our congregation, whether through prayer or social action, study, or mitzvah projects, we can all make a difference for the good, especially when we join together with others in small groups.   This is what I like to call “Minyan Power.”

We have many choices that enable us to share our values with others for the good….Which small group appeals to you?….

Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbi Gilah Dror