D'var Torah: "Rabbi Akiva said, 'Fortunate are you, the People of Israel! In whose presence are you purified? Your Father in Heaven purifies you!'" (Yoma 85:) How wonderful is it for each one of us to know that HaShem considers us His children, and He is our merciful Father! If HaShem had not revealed His special love for Klal Yisrael, we might feel hesitant to ask HaShem for forgiveness. However, since HaShem loves us as our Father, He encourages us to seek His forgiveness.
A father loves his child unconditionally. Therefore, no matter what a child has done, he knows that his father will love him and forgive him. The knowledge of HaShem's great Fatherly love for Klal Yisrael, gives us the confidence to improve ourselves, and ask for His forgiveness, acceptance, and love.
Moral: The very moment we reflect on self-improvement, we can rest assured that HaShem receives us with love, compassion, and forgiveness.
Application: Envision a loving parent placing his child in a warm bath, and gently wash him with the most fragrant soap. Reflect that HaShem, our merciful Father, purifies us with great kindness and love. Be inspired knowing that just as the waters of a Mikveh purify, so too, HaShem lovingly purifies Klal Yisrael whenever we ask Him for forgivness.
(Based on Yoma and Tomer Devorah, as explained by Rav Yitzchak Blazer, Cochvei Ohr)
