Dear Friends,
As we prepare to celebrate Shabbat and Passover, I want to share with you one of my favorite chassidic Passover tales, about Reb Yosef. Reb Yosef went to his Rebbi with an unusual request. He desperately wanted Elijah the Prophet, God’s most reliable angel, to visit. He asked his Rebbi, “What can I do? Is there anything that I could do, that would merit me a visit from Elijah?”
The Rebbi was silent. He stroked his beard in deep thought, and after a few moments he told Reb Yosef that he would think about it, and that Reb Yosef should come back three days later. Three days later Reb Yosef returned. The Rebbi was silent once again. “Please, please, please.”, Reb Yosef begged, “Is there anything I can do? I would do anything to be graced with a visit from the holy Elijah.” So the wise Rebbi stroked his beard again, and said, “You know, Reb Yosef, Passover is just around the corner. There is a family in our community that is going through hard times and doesn’t have much. Provide for them everything they need for the holiday. Invite them over for the seders, provide them with all the food and everything they need to celebrate comfortably and joyously without worry. Then, and only then, will you merit a visit from Elijah.” And at that, Reb Yosef went to work. He went above and beyond, providing the family with everything they could want and need. The festival came and went, but Elijah never came. Reb Yosef stormed into the Rebbi’s office; he was angry. He screamed, “I did everything you asked, but Elijah never came!” To which the Rebbi replied, “But Reb Yosef, Elijah was there. To that family, you were Elijah.”
This Passover, may we all be blessed to feel the presence of Elijah the Prophet at our seder tables. And, when we are able, may we also be blessed to be the presence of Elijah in the lives of all those in need.
Wishing you all a Shabbat Shalom and Happy Passover,
Rabbi Josh Dorsch
