| Refuah Shleimah to Esther Shifra bas Rivka
In the days of King Yeravom ben Yoash, HaShem mercifully granted victory to Klal Yisrael over an invading army—even though many in the nation were actively engaged in idol-worship. If they were spiritually wayward and unrepentant, why did HaShem show them such compassion? HaShem possesses the attribute of “He does not hold His anger forever.” Even when a person stubbornly refuses to change, HaShem often shows mercy and eases his suffering. By granting undeserved kindness, HaShem gives a person the chance to awaken, reflect, and return to Him. Perhaps the unexpected compassion itself will spark teshuvah.
So too must we emulate HaShem. Show mercy to those who have hurt or disappointed you. Draw them close with patience and kindness. Your generosity of spirit may inspire them to grow and to correct their ways. Consider how Yitzchak Avinu related to Esav. Although Esav was steeped in serious wrongdoing, Yitzchak continued to see the holiness within him. He believed in his son’s potential to transform himself and become righteous. Envision Yitzchak looking past Esav’s failures and treating him with dignity and love.
Today: Strengthen this quality within yourself. Nurture love—especially for those who struggle with Torah observance or moral conduct. Treat them with warmth, respect, and friendship. Your kindness may be the very influence that inspires them to choose a better path. (Based on Tomer Devorah, Rav Moshe Cordovero, Chapter 1)
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