As a young man, Horav S. Schwab, z.l., had the occasion to spend a Shabbos with the Chofetz Chaim, z.l., On Friday morning, the Chofetz Chaim questioned him regarding his lineage, whether he was a Kohen or a Levi. Horav Schwab responded in the negative. The Chofetz Chaim remarked, “What a pity! Moshiach is coming, and the Bais Hamikdash will be rebuilt. If you are not a Kohen, you will be unable to perform the Avodah, priestly service.”
The Chofetz Chaim continued, “Do you know why? Because 3,000 years ago, during the incident of the Golden Calf, when Moshe called out “Whoever is with Hashem should come to me,” my grandfather came running to serve, but your grandfather did not respond to the call! This is the message,” he continued. “Every Jew has moments during his lifetime in which he hears that inner voice calling out hkt ‘sk hn. Listen! When you hear that sound, respond immediately, while the opportunity still exists.”
How often does the occasion arise when we hear this inner voice reverberating within us, imploring us to go forth to act for Torah? Alas, in the frenzied pace of our everyday routine, only those few who dedicate their lives to Torah hear the plaintive cry. We may suggest that this “voice” refers to any moment of opportunity. Often in our daily endeavor we come across opportunities for spiritual growth in the form of a charitable undertaking, a special mitzvah, or a chance to study in a class or with a study partner. These seemingly innocent incidents are echos reverberating from Heaven, availing us of a chance to grow. We should heed the words of the Chofetz Chaim by being in the forefront of those responding to the call.
