אֵלֶּה פְקוּדֵי הַמִּשְׁכָּן. . .
These are the accountings of the Mishkan. . . (38:21)
This verse, writes Rav Moshe Feinstein, teaches us a tremendous life lesson. Although the Torah is recounting how the collected funds were allocated to the Mishkan, Rav Moshe understands that the Torah is revealing a strong personal message for us. Namely, just like an assessment was warranted to ensure that funds received for the Mishkan went to the appropriate place, so too, we must constantly ask ourselves whether we are using the gifts we have received appropriately. Are we using our time, money, skills, and talents for the purpose they were given to us?[1]
We can only do this if we can appreciate two key factors. First, we need to acknowledge that Hashem has given each of us specific abilities, strengths, and an attainable mission to come close to Him through the fulfillment of our unique potential for greatness. Second, we need to be constantly assessing whether we are using our gifts in the right way. Just like someone running a business is assessing his effectiveness, to ensure that he is constantly growing, so too, we must make regular times to assess whether we are growing and using our resources to their maximum.
The Jewish People possess a wealth of talent, energy, motivation, and care. If we can assess our combined talents and utilize our strengths, we will no doubt soon witness a new accounting, the accounting for the Beis HaMikdash, bezras Hashem.
SHORT VORT, Rabbi Moshe Kormornick. Published by Adir Press. $9.99 in stores worldwide and online here
Whether you are looking for something meaningful on the Parsha, an uplifting thought for Yom Tov, or have been asked to speak at a Simcha – “Short Vort” is the book for you! With over 140 incredible short vorts packed with stories and valuable life messages, you will never be lost for something inspiring to say.
Rabbi Moshe Kormornick is a popular writer whose words are enjoyed by thousands of readers every week.
