Wise Person or Prophet?

Have you ever read Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski's book, Living Each Day? He has a quote for today that is worth examining . It goes like this: "A wise man (person) is greater than a prophet."(Bava Basra 12a) Twerski elaborates by saying that the prophet sees the future, while the wise person sees the present. Yet it is difficult to see the present because we are so emotionally involved in it. Our pride, desires, and frustrations can cloud our objectivity. It is easier to foresee the future because "we are not affected by things that have not yet happened."

So how does this statement in Bava Basra apply to us? When we think about our congregation, we often spend time thinking about the future. Will we eventually combine forces with the Temple and what will that joint venture look like? While future planning may be indicated, we also need to plan for now. What do our various offerings look like? Are we drawing individuals into our ranks and providing them with a sense that Tifereth Israel is indeed a warm and inviting congregation? When congregants who are unable to leave their homes are not among us, do we forget about them or do we have mechanisms in place to make sure they do not feel abandoned? Do we know what brought us to the synagogue in the first place? What happens within our walls that makes us want to return, makes us feel comfortable? What happens within our walls that makes us feel uncomfortable and therefore willing to stay away?

It is important that as we look at the present, that we not react with fear. For if we engage in our work as a shul out of fear of what might be, we will not generate a current course of action based upon positive motivation. Looking at what is, we need positive motivation to help us pursue establishing a community that promotes a rich and full ritual life and creating a place where no one is alone during difficult times of illness and loss. We have the capability of being a welcoming, accepting community that pursues a connection with Godliness in this world.