Have you experienced great obstacles in your life recently? Does it seem like reaching your goals is near impossible? I did last week.
Having just returned from an incredible trip to Israel, I was looking forward to the exciting project of completing our new Shul. Construction began while I was away, but many meetings needed to be set, funds solicited and pledges collected in order to complete the dream.
As I arrived home, I was stunned to discover the harsh reality of living in Florida. The air conditioner at our home had malfunctioned in our absence.....oy vey! My week was consumed with calls to AC contractors, mold specialists, insurance claims and many more. I got a real education in home ownership!
Feeling overwhelmed by the daunting task of restoring order in our home, I sought the meaning in the madness. Why would G-d send me these tzorress right now, at such a critical time of construction for the entire community?!
Then I recalled our forefather Abraham. On his way to carry out his final and ultimate sacrifice of bringing his beloved son upon the altar, Satan put as many obstacles in his way to make his mission impossible. The midrash even tells of a river Satan created to block his journey, but when the waters reached Abraham’s nose, a sign that nothing, even these waters would deter him, the river disappeared and he carried on his travels. Thus, Abraham was able to prove his absolute faith in G-d, passing his tenth and most difficult challenge with flying colors.
There is a Talmudic teaching: 'the pleasure is proportionate to the reward'. When something is really important, it’s then that the Satan, G-d's angel in charge of testing us, will send us the greatest challenge. When something's not important, there really is nothing to distract us from it!
So instead of feeling dejected and despondent by the challenges I faced, I was strengethed and enthused. By the size of the obstacles before me, I could tell that my destination was of great importance.
So the next time you feel overwhelmed with challenges, transform your conniption into calm and your enmity into enthusiasm as you realize the great importance of the destination that awaits you!