As a child, we see our relationship with Hashem in simplistic terms. “Please, God, let me do well on this test (even though I admittedly didn’t study).” We hold onto this hope until we take the test and realize how much we didn’t actually know. At some point. we realize that no amount of davening will replace paying attention and studying as a way to achieve success in school. I tried that growing up. It didn’t work.
Parshat Chayei Sarah presents that lesson through Avraham’s eyes. In this parsha, Avraham Aveinu is promised by Hashem that he and his descendants will someday be given Eretz Canaan as an everlasting possession and his offspring will be as numerous as the stars in the sky and the grains of sand on the shore.
Those promises will not be fulfilled, however, without Avraham persisting through multiple tests and challenges. Avraham has to engage in a contentious bargaining process to obtain a burial plot for Sarah. Back and forth the negotiation goes, Avraham literally has to stand his ground to be able to purchase this small piece of land, but it will come at considerable cost.
So, too, will it take patience, persistence, dogged determination, and a hefty financial commitment to obtain a wife, Rivka, for Yitzchak. Avraham’s servant presents Rivka’s family with a bounty of gifts, after which they enjoy a celebratory dinner together. Then, of course, the family changes their mind to extract an even greater sum. Avraham must win Rivka’s release so that Hashem’s promise of future generations can be fulfilled.
Hashem, the Ribbono Shel Olam, has a plan for each of us and will fulfill that promise to us, but He will not simply hand it to us. We must be actively engaged in bringing the plan to fruition. That which matters most in life requires commitment, persistence, dedicated effort, and the courage to take advantage of opportunities that come our way.
Those themes rang true for us at OCA this past week as we achieved and then surpassed our goal in our Special Moments Annual Campaign. We believe deeply in our mission as a school: to raise the next generation of knowledgeable, committed Torah-observant Jews who shine brightly, walk proudly, and contribute greatly to the world. That doesn’t happen without the support and hard work of a community with shared values.
Our success in this campaign was due to the incredible generosity, determination, and hard work (and a little spirited competition!) of OCA’s professional and lay leadership, staff, and amazing parent body. We thank everyone who participated in the campaign, whether through giving generously, committing their time, soliciting donations, or simply spreading the word as an ambassador of OCA about our special school community. Each of you helped to bring about our success, our special moment. Toda rabba!
Shabbat shalom!