The primary rule in spiritual growth is never to lose focus of one’s goals. Horav Leib Chasman, zl, emphasizes the importance of setting an objective and not losing sight of it – even momentarily. A short lapse can cause one to fall short of his goal or, even worse, fall behind his starting point. Often, we accept upon ourselves the obligation to perform good deeds, we undertake lofty endeavors, all very worthwhile and within our grasp – if we abide by our agenda. We begin our quest, steadily moving forward, heading towards our goal. After awhile, however, something briefly distracts us. Before we realize it, we are no longer on track. Our enthusiasm has waned, our desire has dissipated. How did this happen? People think that as long as they are on track, everything will be fine. This is not so. One must maintain the same drive and enthusiasm he displayed when he started. The slightest deviation from that early elation can bring us down, where we fall into the grips of the yetzer hara, evil inclination. In our twice-daily recitation of the Shema, we say, “And these matters that I command you today shall be on your heart.” Chazal teach us that we should view the Torah as if it is being given to us today – fresh and exciting, not stale and archaic. The Torah should constantly stimulate us. It should challenge us intellectually and emotionally. By taking this perspective, we are ensured that we will not tire of it.
This is the underlying meaning of our pasuk, “They left to go to the land of Canaan, and they came to the land of Canaan.” With every step that Avraham took on his way, he revitalized Hashem’s imperative. He never waned from following the command to go to Canaan. Every movement represented a mitzvah, performed with excitement and joy. Even when he was at the last step prior to entering the land, Avraham maintained his original focus. His initial enthusiasm continued as if he had just now been commanded.
