Acharei Mot–Kedoshim (אַחֲרֵי מוֹת – קְדֹשִׁים) — “After the Death / Holy
This week, the double portion of Acharei Mot-Kedoshim is read. Acharei mot means “after the death,” and kedoshim means “holy people.” Acharei Mot details the rituals of Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), the holiest day of the year. In Kedoshim, God tells Moses to speak to the whole Israelite community and instruct them concerning ritual and ethical laws to help them live holy lives.
God instructs us to love one another. Love is not just a nice concept; it is an obligation. But how can we be commanded to love, especially when our mood, feelings, and circumstances fluctuate? Love is not a feeling that is contingent upon a mood or circumstance. Love is an action. Your feelings may not be consistent, but your actions can be.
The Hebrew word for “love” is ahava, and comes from the root hav which means to “give.” Love is an action of giving, not merely something that you “fall into.” It is about selfless acts of love that you do for another. It’s about being more concerned with what you can do for others than what they can do for you.
Acts of Love Cannot Be Mistaken
True love is unconditional and selfless. It loves people right where they’re at. If they need help, love them by helping them. If they need acceptance, love them by accepting them. True love loves people beyond their mistakes, shortcomings, or outward appearance. It considers what they are going through, what they might be worried about, what they are feeling, and how you can help them.
True love is brought forth by selfless acts of love between people. Every day we have many opportunities to express our love to others. Here are some examples:
Be empathetic. Smile at everyone you see. Call your parents and children and thank them for everything they’ve done for you. Volunteer at a homeless shelter. Don’t embarrass others. Do something for someone without expecting anything at all in return.
There are many ways to put love into action. So reach out, love generously and unconditionally, and love your neighbor as yourself.
Day 1 Matthew 15:10-20
Day 2 Leviticus 16:1-17:7
Day 3 Leviticus 17:8- 18:21
Day 4 Leviticus 18:22 - 19:32