There is no one whose life does not consist of trials and tribulations, but perhaps none to the extent that Avrohom faced. Through his ten tests Avrohom's faith was tested to the point of almost superhuman proportions yet he withstood them all. Yet the test of 'lech lecho', to leave his homeland to an unknown destination, although requiring some belief, seems to be one of lesser intensity. He is being asked by the Creator,who he recognises and acknowledges, to leave his birthplace but is assured it will be for his benefit. Is that really so hard given Avrohom's status and level of piety?
We have previously answered that the task may have in fact lain, not in doing the act, but in the thought process in which it was done i.e. To truly believe that it was indeed only for his good, no matter how farfetched that seemed. Perhaps we could now suggest something even further, that not only was his challenge in knowing that it was ultimately for his welfare, but also to do whatever was necessary to make that as much of a reality as possible. To make his circumstances, as much as he was able, into one in which it actually was something that he could enjoy and appreciate without the need for a leap of faith. His instruction was to 'go for yourself' to make his going one that was indeed for him.
We often perform mitzvos in a perfunctory manner, some we enjoy and some perhaps not so much. But we are enjoined to 'serve Hashem with joy' so is it really enough to resign ourselves to long term gain only? Whether it be looking for ways to make our acts more meaningful or tactics that assist our enjoyment of the mitzvah, it is part of our responsibility to endeavour to find these measures.
Even for those of us whose commitment to keeping Shabbos is without doubt, there are always ways in which we can maximise our Shabbos experience and enhance it for ourselves and our families and if we can, it is incumbent on us to do so. There is inherent beauty in all Hashem's mitzvos and certainly Shabbos, but if there's something to do to feel it all the more and feel even greater joy in its presence then that is the greatest level of observance we can achieve.
May we all keep Shabbat at the highest level this week.
L'ilui
Nishmas Leah bas Avrohom
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