The idea of being "trapped" is a real issue that we often face in life. Our dilemmas may stem from bad relationships, financial difficulties, career dissatisfaction or personal struggles. How we react defines who we are. As the Children of Israel were caught between the mighty chariots of Pharaoh and the raging waters of the Sea, they responded with prayer. God's response? "Mah titzak elay" - Why do you cry out to Me? ... go forward.
R' Chaim ben Atar (1696-1743) comments that the highest form of prayer is one that is accompanied by a footstep. Prayer can only be activated when we have the strength and resolve to push forward in life and confront the challenges of the day. We prayed at the banks of the Sea. All that was left was for us to place our foot forward. As the State of Israel enters a new and exciting period of history, may we have the faith to look Above and the strength to "step forward" to face the challenges of our age.
