Join Rabbi Chaim Markovits and the statewide community of Rural Georgian Jews in conversation.
This week we discuss choosing which to keep and which not - is that even a thing?
This class was given on Thursday, 4/9/2021 (26 Nissan 5781).
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Scroll down for some show notes
The nekudah of this class is that there is much value to every facet of Judaism, even those matters that feel neither glamorous nor spiritual. Ultimately, whatever G-d throws at us is what we’re supposed to be doing and is really our ideal contribution.
The topic of discussion is the story of Mishael and Eltzafan, tasked with the sad job of removing the corpses of Nadav and Avihu after the latters’ fateful offering in the Mishkan. Section One is an introduction to the topic, beginning with the question: How can we appreciate the mitzvos we don’t enjoy? There are general approaches—rejection and acceptance. The problem with both of them is that after a moment’s thought, it emerges that neither approach reaches a level of appreciation for the mitzvah.
While halachah does seem to differentiate between mitzvos, it becomes clear that such a choice is only when it is impossible to fulfill both, not really serving as a great arbiter to our question.
To answer our question, Section Two cites a prescient example found in this week’s parsha:
While the Jewish people were celebrating the inauguration of the Mishkan, two people received a far less appealing job: burial. In doing their task, they seemed to be missing out on the inspiration. We concluded to the contrary. In doing this job, they were playing a key role in the celebration. They were chosen specifically for their capacity to deal with the burial while maintaining focus on the Mishkan.
Perhaps what they were doing was important, but how can we posit that it was enjoyable? By the same token, how can we enjoy or appreciate our important, yet dissatisfying, mitzvah moments?
Section Three discusses how to go beyond our initial sense of excitement or lack thereof and find joy in any mitzvah. There are definitely ways we can learn to love a mitzvah:
Find the aspect you can appreciate, even if it is not the action of it. Every mitzvah connects us to G-d and makes this world a home for Him. Those are two very powerful goals. Take pleasure in what you are accomplishing.
Accept your role. Life happens—on purpose. If G-d wants you to serve him in this particular way, there is a particular and special reason. You have been drafted into an elite squad. Look beyond your irritation; ask yourself: what is my role right now?
No matter what you are doing, you are able to connect to G-d at every moment. If we look at this core truth, every moment will fill us with indescribable joy. Stop limiting your relationship with G-d to the activities you enjoy. Recognize your relationship for what it is—truly unlimited and a source of endless pleasure, regardless of your personal preferences.
This lesson is based on Likutei Sichos, Vol. 17, Parshas Shemini, Sichah Two 
