My Weekly Drash (a mini D'var Torah) - Toldot
Posted by Daniel M. Kimmel on November 14, 2007 | Tags: Toldot
God doesn’t just drop in. When he appears before Isaac in this week’s Parshah Toldot, it’s not because He just happened to be in the neighborhood. Isaac has prospered but keeps having unpleasant run-ins with the neighbors who stop up his wells and tell him to move on. It is at this point that God appears and tells Isaac, “Fear not, for I am with you, and I will bless you and increase your offspring for the sake of my servant Abraham.” (Gen 26:24). This message of reassurance comes at a time when it is surely needed, and it reminds us that everyone – even outwardly successful people – have problems and worries, and sometimes need a kind word or a pat on the back. Shortly thereafter, the neighboring king comes to realize that God is indeed watching out for Isaac and speedily concludes a peace treaty with him. Not of all of us can have quite that dramatic an impact on the lives of others. However, sometimes an encouraging word can make a world of difference.
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Daniel M. KimmelJoined: October 2, 2007 Daniel M. Kimmel is a Boston area film critic, lecturer and author. He does these weekly mini-lessons for the Mishkan Tefila Brotherhood's newsletter. You are free to use them for similar purposes. Divrei Torah (117) |
