| We woke up this morning to see and hear of the atrocities happening in Sydney. The forces of evil are attempting to gain ground. This is a battle that is real and it must be met, not with bullets or violence, but with weapons far more powerful than any aggression: the forces of light, goodness, and kindness. We grieve deeply for the tragic events in Sydney, yet we do not despair, for hope and resilience are stronger than any darkness. This is a battle of good over evil, generosity over atrocity, and light over darkness. It is a fight that calls upon all people of good faith to stand strong. As Chanukah approaches, the flickering candles of the menorah send a timeless message: light must shine brightly in every Jewish home, as in every heart. For thousands of years, the Jewish spirit, our strength, perseverance, and dedication has taught the world that the Godly spirit within us is eternal. No force of evil can overcome it and Chanukah reminds us that the light of the Jewish soul cannot be extinguished. Many have tried to destroy the Jewish people. The Egyptians, the Romans, the Syrians, the horrors of the Inquisition, and the unspeakable atrocities of the Nazis, all sought to erase our people, our faith, and our identity. Yet where are they today? They are in the dustbin of history while we remain, stronger than ever, alive and thriving, carrying forward the torch of our timeless heritage. As Jews, we have been promised the ultimate Redemption. A time when our people will live in peace, when goodness will triumph completely, and when the world will be filled with light. That promise has sustained us through millennia of challenge, persecution, and exile. And perhaps today, one more mitzvah, one more act of goodness and kindness, could be the spark that helps usher in this era of bliss. Each positive action, each contribution to Torah and Jewish life, has the power to bring the world closer to its destined perfection. Chanukah reminds us of this eternal truth: that light will always conquer darkness, that perseverance and faith carry the power to change history, and that every Jew and person of good faith has the ability to be a force in bringing redemption closer. The coming of Moshiach is not just a dream, it is our shared destiny, and every step of holiness brings it closer. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of our dear brother, Chabad Shliach Rabbi Eli Schlanger, HYD, to our brothers and sisters in Sydney and pray for all affected by this atrocity. |
No comments:
Post a Comment