| The Dynamics of Growth \ The Wisdom of Our Sages
D'var Torah: As we ascend the path of Torah we grow spiritually and feel the joy of drawing closer to HaShem. It might be through a Mitzvah that we perform with more intensity, or a new Torah insight that inspires us. Then suddenly we are challenged and we feel distant from HaShem. We are perplexed. The solution to this problem is explained by the following example. When a parent coaxes their baby to walk, they stand in front of their child and encourage him to take a step. When he takes a step, the parent takes a step backward, motivating the child to take another step. So too, we take a step closer to HaShem and we feel great. HaShem "takes a step backwards" to encourage us to take another step forward!
Moral: HaShem always encourages us to come closer, be better, take a new step. When we go forward, HaShem never abandons us! He just moves back so that we will grow a little stronger.
Application: Envision Avraham Avinu living in a pagan society. He recognizes HaShem at a young age and HaShem reveals Himself to Avraham. Subsequently, Avraham passes ten tests, growing continuously stronger and closer to HaShem. Strengthen your faith that HaShem is always beside you. Take another step and HaShem will guide you to new levels of wisdom, kindness, and holiness. (Based on the writings of the Ba'al Shem Tov) |
L"N R' Yochanon Mordecai ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leah bas Yehudah Yoseph
Refuah Shleimah
Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Ettta
Riva bas HenyaZivia bas RaizelLeah Hadassah bas Michal ChanaChava Bas Michal ChanahChaya Harriet Bat Sophie Lee Mazal Malkah Mollie Bas Sarah Yakir Efraim Ben Rachel Devora
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