I always love setting a beautiful table for Shabbat and will often share it on facebook. The last tablescape I shared was the Shabbat after the inauguration. One of my dear friends replied, “the most peaceful Shabbat in four years.” 

I know many would agree with these sentiments. But I don’t. And it has absolutely nothing to do with politics. It has to do with the true gift of Shabbat which allows us to transform into an inner state of peace no matter what is happening in the outside world.

Don’t get me wrong. I was truly happy my friend felt so peaceful. I am happy anytime someone feels peaceful as that energy goes out into the world affecting others. This is Judaism 101. It is part of our job as Jewish people and why we are here, to  radiate out into the world that Light of Peace. We are to be a “ Light unto the Nations.” 

I know that many people do not observe Shabbat. And Rabbi David and I don’t even observe it in the same way as we used to do. But there really is something so magical that happens when I light the candles  and usher in Shabbat. There is an actual perceptible shift within. I can also feel the energy in the entire house shifting and as many  people who visit us can attest to, our home already radiates a feeling of peace. 

So what is it that causes this shift? Part of it is that we are connecting or tapping into what we can call the energy field of Shabbat which has been built up over the centuries of practice. With this connection from our intentions and rituals we are forming a sacred space for Shabbat angels to descend. Or another way to look at it is that we are activating  the angelic energies of peace. But either way, yes, they really do join us. 

We actually have so many gifts from our tradition, especially the mystical teachings from the Kabbalah, to transform into that uplifted state and live there.

In our upcoming class, “Soar Above and Beyond,”  we will be learning how to use some of these gifts, including activating angelic energies on a daily basis. 

I so hope you will join me! 

May you have a peaceful Shabbat. The most peaceful one ever! 

Shabbat Shalom, 

Cantor Lee