Dear Friends
You know what is happening in Israel. We are all in tremendous shock and pain over the devastating attack by heinous barbarians against our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land, on the holy and most joyous holiday of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah.
We pray that G-d should avenge the blood of the murdered, ensure the hostages are immediately redeemed and the wounded have complete and speedy recoveries. We pray our soldiers succeed in their heroic and holy work and that they all come home safely. We pray for the safety, security and well-being of all our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land during this horrible war and forever.
We are all at war. Even when we are physically distant from the battle Judaism teaches us that we have the power to influence the outcome through the innate connection we share with our brothers and sisters throughout the world.
1. Morale must be high. An army must be upbeat to win a war and the most potent spiritual weapon we have is positivity and joy. Clearly, it is very difficult, but now more than ever it is crucial to think positively and seek ways to bring true happiness to ourselves and those around us. Engaging in arguments and debates about the war is largely useless and please be sure to care for your emotional health at such a sensitive time.
2. Prayer is powerful. Choose a psalm of Tehillim to recite regularly. We suggest reciting psalm 20 available at chabadelpaso.com/6320 or you can choose any psalm, available online at chabadelpaso.com/1228223.
3. Do more Mitzvot. Positive action breeds positive energy and the divine energy generated by a Mitzvah is indescribable. We suggest an increased focus on Mitzvot uniquely connected to security. Men should wrap Tefillin, every Jewish home should have Mezuzahs on all the doorposts, and women should light Shabbat candles on Friday afternoon at the proper time. Please let us know how we can assist you with doing these Mitzvot.
4. Give more charity. The most tangible way to support our brothers and sisters is by donating to the many worthy causes in Israel providing much-needed assistance to everyone impacted. Kindly donate to Chabad of Israel’s National Emergency Fund here: charidy.com/Chabad.IL/elpaso
With its tremendous network throughout the land, Chabad of Israel has tens of thousands of people on the ground helping every segment of society there.
In addition, kindly set aside a giving box in your home or office and commit to placing small cash in it regularly for charity. Every act of charity, however small but consistent, can transform the world into a more positive and peaceful place.
Maimonides declared that “one positive good deed, spoken word and even thought can tip the scales and bring salvation to the entire world.” May this war be the last one anyone should ever fight and may we merit the arrival of Moshiach who will usher in an era of eternal peace and tranquility for all.
Rabbi Yisrael and Chana Greenberg
Rabbi Levi and Shainy Greenberg
Priscilla Estrelllo wrote...