We have just successfully navigated through a locked down Passover and now face a still uncertain future… writes Michael Kuttner.
On the seventh day of the Festival (in Israel) the Torah portion which is read details the Israelites crossing the Sea of Reeds and their subsequent singing of the song giving praise to God for having saved them from the genocidal intentions of the pursuing Egyptian army.
This was indeed a great miracle. Given the fact that our politicians have still not managed to set aside their personal and egotistical impediments it would seem that a miracle of similar proportions is urgently needed in order to finally establish a governing coalition.
Where is our modern day Moses who will show true selfless leadership in the face of mounting threats?
If we ignore for a few moments the pathetic antics of our elected representatives we can thank goodness still find plenty of good news to report in the midst of health, economic and political challenges.
ANOTHER SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE ISRAELI INNOVATION
Amidst a national and world wide shortage of suitable masks an Israeli developed solution has come to the rescue.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuNYNj6plDo
UNIQUE ISOLATION AMBULANCES
First responders and health workers are in the firing line when it comes to protecting themselves against catching the coronavirus. This challenge has been tackled by, amongst others, Israel’s national emergency responders Magen David Adom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROWbsMYhia4
SPECIAL FACILITY
What happens if individuals with psychiatric problems catch the virus? Ideally, they need special treatment and, once again, Israel has come up with a quick answer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V8_gXsEqfc
ISRAEL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA PASSOVER GREETING
Concerts may be cancelled but this has not stopped the IPO from sending a unique musical greeting for the Festival.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rT0XziWZrfU
FRIENDS IN TIME OF CRISIS
The International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem coordinated a massive pre-Passover campaign, which was supported by supporters in many countries (including China), to provide and deliver food supplies to homebound seniors and Holocaust survivors.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qO2c1M47cXw
BEHIND THE NEWS
It is highly unlikely that you will have seen this in your local media. Despite massive challenges Israel once again manages to forge ahead and achieve unbelievable things.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8F6UyPQ3Lo
Have a good week and stay safe.
Michael Kuttner is a Jewish New Zealander who for many years was actively involved with various communal organisations connected to Judaism and Israel. He now lives in Israel.
[This article was originally published on J-Wire and is reproduced here with permission from Michael Kuttner.]
