For Such a Time as This:

A Transformational Journey

Purim and Parashat Ki Tisa: Two Stories of Transformation

This week, we find ourselves between two powerful narratives—one from the Torah and one from Jewish history—that teach us about resilience, renewal, and stepping into our purpose.

• Parashat Ki Tisa tells the dramatic story of the Golden Calf. After receiving the Torah, the Israelites lose faith when Moshe does not return as expected. In their panic, they create a false god, breaking the very covenant they had just entered. Yet, this low point is met with Divine mercy. Moshe pleads for forgiveness, and God reveals the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy—a reminder that we are always given the chance to begin again:“Adonai, Adonai, compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in kindness and truth.” (Exodus 34:6)
• Purim, on the other hand, is a story of hidden miracles. Esther, an orphaned Jewish girl who becomes queen of Persia, finds herself in a position where she can save her people—but only if she risks her life to approach the king. At first, she hesitates, fearing for her safety. But her uncle Mordechai reminds her: “Who knows if you were brought to this moment for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

Meeting This Moment with Compassion

Whether we see ourselves in the Israelites who made a mistake and needed a fresh start, or in Esther, who needed the courage to step forward, we are reminded that our lives are filled with moments of transformation.

We have all been through challenges that tested our faith, patience, and strength. And yet, these very challenges are catalysts for soul growth. The obstacles we face push us to grow in new—and sometimes unexpected—directions. May we emerge, transformed, equipped with clarity, courage, and compassion needed to respond to what is calling us in this moment. 

I wrote this prayer in the spirit of Ki Tisa—a reminder that we are allowed to begin again, to cultivate resilience, and to embrace the journey ahead.

Permission: A Prayer for Parashat Ki Tisa

May we give ourselves permission
to begin again— and again— and again—
knowing that we are part of
something greater than ourselves.

May we grow in patience and resilience,
and be blessed with courage and strength
to address whatever challenges arise
on the next leg of our journey.

May we understand that
we are human BEings,
not human DOings,
and take time for the
introspection and reflection
necessary to fuel our soul’s sacred light.

Journey Towards the Light

I’m excited that my next book, Journey Towards the Light, a collection of prayers and illustrations that were inspired by the weekly Torah portion, is almost ready to go to press! Here’s the illustration for Ki Tisa:

Here’s how it will look in the book:

For those who are interested in journaling, here are a few of my Ki Tisa journaling pages:

Journaling Prompts: Stepping into This Moment

This week, I invite you to reflect on the experiences that have prepared you for this moment.

1. Looking Back with Clarity
   • Think of a time in your life when you faced a challenge that, in the moment, felt overwhelming.
   • What inner strengths did you develop because of that experience?
   • How has that challenge equipped you for where you are today?
2. Cultivating Courage to Answer the Call
   • What do you feel called to do?
   • What fears or doubts hold you back?
   • What innate gifts and life experiences have you had that uniquely empower you to answer the call of this moment?
3. Practicing Compassion
   • The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy remind us that kindness and patience are Divine qualities.
   • How can you extend more compassion—to yourself and others—as you navigate this chapter of your life?
   • What is one small act of kindness you can offer today, as a reflection of God’s mercy in the world?

For Such a Time as This

Every journey has its turning points. Every challenge is an opportunity for transformational growth; to use our innate gifts to respond to what calls us in this moment. Like Esther, we may not always feel ready. Like the Israelites at Sinai, we may falter along the way. But through it all, we have the ability to live with intention and purpose, and to make our lives an inspired journey.

May we trust that we have been prepared for this moment.
May we step forward with courage to answer the call.
May we reflect God’s compassion in all that we do.

For such a time as this.