Jan 16, 2014 3 min read

In the book of Numbers, there is a reference to the name of a non-Israelite, Balaam, the son of Beor, who was a prophet to the nations of the world and had direct communication with God. Not only did God communicate with Balaam, he also interacted with a host of prophets from many nations.

God wanted the nonHebrew world to have a prophet comparable to Moses so they could be as righteous as Israel and not to have an excuse to pursue evil ways. Balaam was that prophet.

Balaam eventually blessed the people of Israel with the words found in Number 24:5, “How goodly are your tents, O Jacob, your dwelling places O Israel.” These prayers are the first prayer a Jew recites every morning before formal prayer and almost became part of the “Shema,” the holiest prayer in Judaism that establishes God’s onenesses.

Judaism believes there is universal salvation for almost all men even though they are not perfect, and it also acknowledges that spirituality exists among all good men and people. Judaism also recognizes there are many paths to reach the almighty.

I am a Pennsylvania State Police chaplain and part of the Member Assistance Program of the state police. We are very fortunate to have as our leader a truly blessed and spiritual man named Cpl. Timothy Sprowls, who is not only a true Christian, but also as the Judaic Bible would call him, as it did Noah and Job, “a righteous gentile.” He cares about all people of all denominations whatever their beliefs or color and creed.

At all times, the blessings and teachings of the Lord are constantly upon his lips. His compassion for man and love for the Lord has led him to the position he occupies. He also is a man who truly loves his vocation.

The state police chaplains program provides a service to the troopers and our community. It also plays a supportive role for the community in times of crisis or tragedy.

I am truly blessed to be part of our many meetings and conferences, which allow me to interact with clergy from different denominations and religions. In fact, on many occasions I enjoy the spirituality and fellowship among my clergy friends more than some of the rabbinical meetings I have attended.

The state police clergy have given me the opportunity to see God’s presence dwell among many of the Lord’s servants from many different backgrounds. It has confirmed for me that God’s presence and prophecies rest among all the chaplains. It also portrays the theme of the Torah portion of Balaak that God and his prophecies reside among all good men no matter their belief.

Someone once asked me if there are other Jewish state police brethren. My response was yes; all my colleagues are my brothers with the Lord. When a trooper bleeds, each and every one of them bleeds, as well; when a trooper grieves, they all grieve. When a trooper dies, the entire law enforcement community mourns, as if that trooper was part of their family. When you enroll in the state police, you become a member of a very large family.

David C. Novitsky serves as the rabbi of Beth Israel congregation, Washington.