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Rabbi's Blog

Thoughts and Musings by Rabbi Yossi Zaklikofsky

Firm Faith

 

Before the Jews were to enter the land of Israel, Moses sent twelve Jewish leaders to scout the promised land and bring back a report for all the people. Since G-d had promised this land to the Jewish people numerous times, the question was never whether they would indeed inherit this gift from G-d, but rather how best to accomplish it.

When the spies returned from their scouting mission, they did what many journalists do today: they interjected their own opinions into what was meant to be just a report of the facts on the ground. They interspersed commentary and op-ed material into the news article. They declared that it was impossible to conquer the land, although they were never asked about this as it was already a given. G-d had miraculously taken them out of Egypt, split the sea for them, and given them the gift of the Torah. Surely, He was capable of fulfilling the promise of the land.

For the last eight months, the Jewish people have again been struggling with these questions: Is it feasible for the Jewish people to live safely in the land of Israel under the threats of its deadly neighbors?

The answer today is just as it was then: G-d long ago promised that the Jewish people are His cherished holy people and gifted them the Holy Land for eternity. It is not a question of if, but just a question of how... The critical thing for us is to brush up on our faith in G-d and His capabilities to protect His 'lonely sheep among 70 wolves'. When we believe in miracles, they actually happen !

Life-Changing Teachers

 

Growing up, did you ever have that one special teacher who positively impacted your life, more than all others?

As we know, good teachers have the power to shape a student's life in many ways. They impart knowledge but also serve as sources of inspiration and guidance. They instill values, nurture social and emotional growth and foster a lifelong love of learning.

But then there’s that once-in-a-lifetime teacher, the one who helps shape the trajectory of your life so profoundly, helping you to reach your greatest potential. Many have shared stories with me about that one special teacher who went the extra mile and really cared with heart and soul, beyond classroom hours.

Consider Moses, who is referred to as a ‘father figure’ to his nephews, the sons of Aaron. Why? Because he devoted himself wholeheartedly to them, in his role as Torah teacher, working ‘overtime’ until his teachings were fully absorbed and integrated within them.

Now, as we enter the 30-day period before the 30th Yartzeit of the Rebbe, I find myself reflecting on the impact the Rebbe has had on my life, through his teachings, guidance and instructions. For me, the Rebbe was that once-in-a-lifetime teacher. Even though it's almost 30 years since his passing, I am still captivated by the Rebbe’s teachings. Every morning when I delve into his Torah wisdom I am amazed by the transformative effect it has on me, in a fresh and current way.

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