As the Israelites cross the desert, they receive a visit from Moses' enigmatic father-in-law, Yitro, who is described as "Kohen Midian"- the high priest of Midian. Moses goes out to greet Yitro and the Israelites welcome Yitro into the camp. Yitro offers praise of God, makes sacrifices and joins them for a meal.
It's perhaps not surprising that Moses would extend a warm welcome to his father-in-law, yet the way in which the story unfolds is still worthy of comment. The Torah of Moses is not known for being an ecumenical document. Later in this week's portion we are told in the Ten Commandments that we may not worship the deities of other peoples, or even adopt their methodologies of idols and images in worshipping the true God. We will read in Deuteronomy that their shrines must be destroyed.
The story of Yitro reminds us that there is a flip side to this coin. Meaningful encounters with those of other faiths can help us develop a deeper appreciation of our traditions. Yitro is able to help the Israelites appreciate the amazing miracles of their own experience, and re-introduces them to the phrase "Baruch Hashem," He also offers Moses very useful advice as to how to organize his own religious community. Our encounters with those of other faiths, when undertaken with mutual respect and honesty can be of similar benefit. Each of us can appreciate the ways in which the other group's sacred texts shed light on our own history and traditions. We can share in the larger "wisdom of the world." When we can gain insight into the beliefs and motivations of our neighbors, we can live in greater harmony with them.
Next Thursday, we are beginning a monthly dialogue group with our neighbors at Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church, and we have one spot open for this program.
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