Thought of the Week: Vayeira - 5772

AVRHAM’S LESSON IN RESPONDING TO ADVERSITY

When we hear about or read of a tragedy that has occurred, it is human nature to try to find some kind of explanation.  Unfortunately, quite often people begin to talk as if they are G-d.  "It happened to him because he did such and such..." can be heard from the fool's mouth.  At times, these 'insights' as to why bad things happen add more pain and suffering to the situation.

Avraham Avinu teaches us how to deal with such situations, namely, to perform acts of kindness even for people who live by the values of Sodom.  He and Sarah hosted many travelers who lived in the corrupt city and yet, these travelers were treated with dignity.  There is no doubt that Avraham tried to uproot cruelty with benevolence.  When the news reached his ears (from the only reliable media outlet - Hashem) that the city was going to be destroyed, he did not declare "they deserve it" but rather he began a very passionate prayer.

We must learn from the Chesed of Avraham if we truly desire to make the world a better place.

Shabbat Shalom.