That's appropriate. But with a new Congress and administration tackling both, it's time for Jewish groups to wade into the fray. Broad statements about the importance of these issues are no longer sufficient as lawmakers, the Obama administration and powerful interest groups grapple with policies that will affect our nation for generations to come.

Developing economically practical alternative energy sources that will free us from the tyranny of energy dependence is feasible but expensive, and it won't happen without political leaders who have the courage and political backing to stand up to powerful interest groups that profit enormously from our dependence on foreign oil.

For the Jewish community there is an added factor: our heavy reliance on Middle East oil impedes effective diplomacy and threatens Israel's long-term security in a region where adversaries and their clients benefit hugely from our gas-guzzling habits.

To understand the depth of the health care crisis, we need look no further than our own community. Many elderly Jews and their families are suffering under the crushing burden of medical care. Jewish health agencies totter on the brink as the same soaring health costs that are dragging down our economy cripple their ability to provide even basic services to a growing population that can't afford adequate care.

It is shameful that in this most advanced society, obtaining necessary health care drives so many families into bankruptcy and is simply unattainable for so many others.

Here, too, powerful interest groups seek to block genuine reform in pursuit of their own profits. Here, too, public officials bent on genuine reform will need an energized, activist public as an ally.

It's not enough to issue broad statements on these issues; our community leaders must activate the grass roots and the "grass tops" to become directly involved in the battles now underway in Washington.

At every level – as individuals, local community groups and major national organizations – our community needs to be as engaged in these issues as we are in the critical fight to support Israel.