Believe it or not, this is post number 346 in “Rabbi Levi A. Olan: The Conscience of the City.” Anita Olan and I created the blog and posted a few test entries in March 2018. Then in April 2018 this site opened officially. Since that time several writers have contributed their sermon introductions and pictures to the blog. Altogether, the team has been at this for five and a half years. That’s five years and counting.

I like the phrase “five years and counting” because it implies more than just five years. It also implies a continuing effort. The timeclock has not yet run out for this project. The last part of the phrase “five years and counting” also raises an important question. Does the blog count? Does it really matter? Does it still have meaning and relevance?

Let me be the first (and hopefully not the last!) to answer in the affirmative. After 5.5 years, this blog matters to me. I can’t tell you how often during the difficult changes of recent years I have turned to Rabbi Olan’s sermons for uplift and challenge. In 2020 I left my job at Southern Methodist University (a difficult decision), moved to Berea, Kentucky, and started a new phase of my archival career far from my friends and faith community in Dallas. Then came the isolation of COVID shutdowns, the deaths of both of my parents, the retirement of a greatly esteemed colleague, and recently, the decline and death of my mother-in-law. The one constant for me in all of this upheaval has been a weekly encounter with one of the most thoughtful, passionate, and eloquent spiritual leaders I have even come across.

Although he has been gone almost four decades, Rabbi Olan has ministered to me weekly these past five+ years. I have often resonated deeply with his sermon texts and felt reassured by hearing his voice (via recording, of course). Yes, this blog matters to me. It counts, and you can count on me to continue keeping our project going.

Working with the Olan sermons since 2010 has also brought many wonderful people into my life. How can I possibly thank each of you adequately? Our conversations have been open and stimulating. Your acceptance, kindness, and encouragement have meant a great deal to me. Know that I value your friendships deeply. I am glad that Rabbi Olan has brought us together, even though I never actually met him!

*Written by Tim Binkley*