A Spiritual All-Nighter

בס"ד

 "צו את אהרן ואת בניו לאמר זאת תורת העלה הוא העלה על מוקדה על המזבח כל הלילה עד הבקר ואש המזבח תוקד בו:"

[ויקרא ו:ב]

"Command Aharon and his sons, saying, this is the instruction for the Olah offering, this is the Olah which burns upon it's fire upon the mizbeach – all night, until the morning – and the fire of the mizbeach will be ignited upon it" [Vayikra 6:2]

If the Torah tells us that the fire must be kept burning all night – why remind us that this mes until the morning ? Surely this repetitive phrase is meant to teach us something.

Two ideas come to mind, especially in light of the obvious symbolism of the fire upon the mizbeach to the dedication we have 'burning' in our hearts in our own dedication to the service of Hashem.

First, we must realize that as difficult as it is to devote ourselves to the service of Hashem in the 'nighttime', or spiritual low, these periods always herald a bright tomorrow. There may be a time when we feel Hashem distant from us – but know, that He will be felt all the closer for our 'all-night' vigil, when the 'morning' arrives.

Second, however, is an idea that is more obligating than comforting. It's true that the 'morning' of spiritual closeness with Hashem will follow the period of difficulty we have termed 'night'. But, it is our responsibility to keep the fires of dedication burning – '…until the morning' and not even a moment less. We can't claim that since it became difficult to serve Hashem in a metaphorical night we are absolved of the responsibility – rather, we must redouble our dedication in all things spiritual and be prepared to keep at it – until the morning, until circumstances for divine service become easier.

Hatzlacha !!