This Shabbos, it is especially fitting that we keep in mind the words of Retzei: “…she’lo te’hei tzarah v’yagon va’anacha b’yom menuchaseinu…,” that there be no distress, no grief, no pain or suffering for ourselves or for any of our fellow Yidden, “v’hareinu Hashem Elokeinu b’nechamas Tzion irecha…,” that we merit to bear witness to the ultimate comfort – the nechamas Tzion – with the immediate rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash.
The Torah tells us, ‘You must not light a fire… on the day of Shabbos.’ One should not light a fire – even a spiritual flame – on Shabbos. He must imbue his weekly activities with warmth and sanctity as well, so that when Shabbos does finally arrive, he is not just beginning to create the fire.
Hashem, in His great love for the Jewish people, has given them 248 dos and 365 don’ts in order for them to reach the levels of greatness that they were created to achieve, and to merit the ultimate reward, ‘דביקות בה – closeness to their loving Father in heaven.
The Jewish Nation is seen walking to and from shul carrying their precious lulavim and esrogim, and are heard singing their joyous Shabbos and Yom Tov tunes through the thin walls of their magnificent sukkahs. The beauty of Klal Yisroel shining through and on display in a very royal and majestic way, all over the world – wow! Mi K’amcha Yisroel!