Sandwiched in Love

No, there aren’t any secret tunnels from our Chabad House to Tehran. And, while there is a long list of finalists for Antisemite of the Week, Tucker Carlson certainly sits at the top.

I won’t give screen time to his antics. But, his remarks give me cause for introspection. The Baal Shem Tov taught that everything we see or hear must be a lesson in our own life and relationship with G-d.

If the word spreading on social media is that Jews are unique and that we have grand aspirations, then let’s analyze that ourselves. Not from a geopolitical perspective – which is driven by bigotry and conspiracies. Rather, from a point of reflection, spirituality, and mission.

Let’s look at this week’s parsha Ki Tisa for a clue.

The most famous story in this parsha is one of the most tragic failures in Jewish history. Shortly after receiving the Torah, the Jewish people worship the Golden Calf. Amazingly, Hashem forgives the Jews after they repent and Moshe prays for them. Afterwards, they are given a second chance and receive the Second Tablets.

However, that is not the opening scene of the parsha. The parsha opens with the instruction to count the Jewish people and directives for making the water basin, anointing oil, and incense for the Mishkan (Sanctuary).

If the parsha is meant to be thematic, then we should have discussed the Mishkan items in the last two parshiyot – Teruma and Tetzaveh – which are dedicated to the Mishkan and priestly garments. Why does the Torah start with counting the Jews, some “leftover” guidelines about the Mishkan and only afterwards launch into the critical story of the Golden Calf?

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Like a loving parent, Hashem seeks to exclusively see the good in the Jewish people. Yes, they sinned terribly. And, G-d threatened to wipe out the entire nation. But, ultimately, His love toward His people is boundless. He forgave them and started all over.

But, that’s not it.

When it came time to record this grave error, G-d made sure to bury the story between more favorable headlines. Yes, the primary feature of the parsha is the failure of the Jews. But, that’s not what G-d chooses to focus on. Hashem loves us so deeply that even in the story of our failure, he speaks glowingly of counting His precious people and the glorified gift of the Second Tablets, which were superior to the first ones.

G-d sandwiches us with love from all sides. It’s not because He is oblivious to our shortcomings. Rather, it’s because He recognizes that at our core, we have a holy mission to which we remain loyal.

This love affair is what pushes Jews to the apex of history and society. It’s what drives our drive.

And, it’s what makes our mission central to the world’s mission. It’s why the happenings and destiny of this little people have grand effects throughout the world.

And, it’s why current events remind me that we indeed have deep aspirations to influence the world. To make it a more holy place. To build up the edifice of G-d throughout the world. Not by military might. But, by good deeds and a shining example.

We don’t need Antisemites like Carlson. But, thanks for reminding me that we do have a unique message and deep aspirations.

May Almighty G-d bring Moshiach. Then we will have world peace. And, then, G-d’ holy abode will be a home for all nations.