The Midrash states that the word vkt (these) which begins our parsha, is closely connected with another “vktw” namely “lhvkt vkt ktrah” (These are your Gods O’ Israel). This rebellious statement was uttered by the people who threw themselves at the feet of the Golden-Calf. Although Hashem responded to this uprising with grave measures, Bnei Yisrael were given the opportunity to repent and seek forgiveness. Hashem said to them “With one vkt you angered Me, and with the other vkt you will appease Me.” The shocking crime of the Golden-Calf was forgiven because Bnei Yisrael displayed the same zeal and enthusiasm towards their donations to the Mishkan that as showed towards this crime. A profound thought lies in the words of this Midrash. We are expected to give to Hashem at least as much as we give to ourselves. One must exert the same amount of energy on behalf of Hashem’s interest as he would his own interest.
The secret of success in any venture is not what is done to complete a task, but the manner in which it is done. It is the drive, the energy, the zeal, and the enthusiasm which define its success. Leaders are individuals who actually “live” their work, rather than just perform it. Their whole life is permeated by their work. The successes and failures of their various projects play a pivotal role in their emotional stability. In contemporary society, unfortunately, we are accustomed to dividing the issues. In commercial, professional, and political life there is little we would not do to achieve success. We strive to derive whatever we can out of life. When it comes to matters of the spirit and areas of religious endeavor, however, we suddenly become mild, genteel, and obsessively tolerant . We are suddenly willing to accept numerous incursions into our beliefs, and are prepared to compromise and surrender our most precious values without a struggle. We should always remember the lesson of this Midrash. We should use the same enthusiasm and passion in accomplishing things for Hashem that motivates us to attain things for ourselves.
