CHUKAT–BALAK - When the Adonai makes a way, no one can curse what He has blessed!

Today’s Torah portion is called “Chukat–Balak” (חקת־בלק). These two Hebrew words come from the opening words of two Torah portions that are often read together today.

Chukat (חקת) comes from the Hebrew word chok (חֹק), meaning “statute,” “decree,” or “divine ordinance.” It begins in Numbers 19:1 with the words, “This is the statute (chukat) of the Torah…” referring to God’s instructions concerning the Red Heifer.

And Balak (בלק) is simply the name of the Moabite king well read about today who sought to curse Israel through the wicked prophet Balaam (Numbers 22:2)

Together, these portions take us from one of Israel’s greatest failures in the wilderness to one of the greatest Messianic prophecies in the Torah.

Along the way we witness God’s miraculous provision, His patient mercy, His sovereign protection over His people, and His faithfulness to keep every promise He has made.

One truth becomes unmistakably clear through these readings today:

God always makes a way for His people.

Even when they fail... Even when enemies surround them...

Even when others seek to curse them...

God will remain faithful to His covenant.

Throughout today's readings we will also encounter several passages many people struggle with or simply skip over. Why couldn't Moses enter the Promised Land for striking the rock that gave Israel water? Why would God tell Moses to make a bronze serpent? What’s with Balaam's donkey speaking?

These passages are not random stories. Each one points us toward God's greater plan of redemption through Messiah.

Throughout today's readings we’ll see a powerful theme. And that’s: When God makes a way, no one can curse what He has blessed.

Today we'll be reading from Numbers 19:1-10–25, Micah 5-6, and Matthew 21:1–17.

Every Shabbat, we read the Torah, the Prophets, and the Gospels together to see one unified story: how God reveals Himself as King, Redeemer, and Shepherd of Israel, and how His covenant purposes unfold through Yeshua (Jesus) our Messiah for the blessing of all nations! Every week we learn the Story of Redemption, One Portion at a Time!