Who is Nachshon?
According to rabbinic commentators he was an ordinary person who made the miracle of the Exodus possible. When the Israelites were fleeing Egypt they arrived at the shore of the Red Sea only to find themselves trapped between the water and the Pharaoh’s advancing army. As Moses cried out to God, one man stepped forward into the dangerous sea. He continued into the water, deeper and deeper. Finally, as the water reached his neck, the Israelites joined him. It was only then that the seas parted.
At Jewish Funds for Justice, an essential part of our mission is to find and support leaders who—like Nachshon—are catalysts for change. They respond to daunting challenges with the courage to stand up for what is just= and with the skill to convert opportunity into change.
It is our responsibility to stand with leaders who today—like Nachshon—are working to make positive changes in society. With your support, Jewish Funds for Justice can continue our commitment to helping leaders take bold steps to create a more just and compassionate nation. Won’t you stand with us? Click here to donate.
Who is behind the Nachshon Challenge?
Mark Bernstein, civil justice lawyer, The Bernstein Law Firm and JFSJ Board Member
Mark joined the JFSJ board in 2007 after serving on various Jewish and community boards in Ann Arbor, MI. After living in Washington, DC and New York City, Mark returned to his home state of Michigan with his wife and two children. He agreed to answer a few questions about his commitment to JFSJ and why the Nachshon story speaks to him.
JFSJ:What interests you about Jews working for social change?
MB: Growing up in a family of lawyers, I have always been inspired by great social activists working for justice. I have also noted the powerful intersection of Judaism and good work—it seems like many people are motivated by their Jewish identity to do good in the world. Rabbi Heschel said that in a democracy some are guilty but all are responsible, and I take that to heart.
JFSJ:What about the Nachshon story made you want to help support the Nachshon Challenge?
MB: Social change is always risky and requires courage. The Nachshon Challenge is an opportunity to reward some of the most courageous and innovative social change leaders in the country. It’s also an opportunity to inspire and motivate others to provide the necessary support these leaders need to do their work.
JFSJ:What about JFSJ drew you to this organization?
MB: From Baltimore to New Orleans and many other cities, JFSJ is on the front lines working with community leaders. To see JFSJ ask difficult questions—about immigration or access to health care or rebuilding New Orleans or community redevelopment in Baltimore—goes to the root of problems that affect our communities. JFSJ doesn’t look to apply band-aids – it takes on these core issues. I hope that others will stand with me to support modern day Nachshons and the important work they are doing.
Mark will match all on line donations to the Nachshon Challenge from now through June 30, 2008 (the end of our fiscal year), dollar for dollar. Thank you Mark, for helping JFSJ raise the necessary funds to support our inspiring leaders. And thank you for helping us to make his $10,000 dollars go further!
Please donate today and know Mark will double your gift.
