The world watches in trepidation as a terrible war unfolds in Ukraine.
We are all praying for peace there and in the entire world. A world that has known too much war. It is time that people and nations learn to truly respect one another and learn to resolve differences as human beings are meant to, through dialogue, mutual respect and understanding, based on the G-d given universal principles of morality and goodness.
It is a reminder that the world needs, we all need, what the Torah promises us, the era of Geulah/Redemption. A time when mankind will live together in peace and cooperation, and will focus on bringing out the true beauty of G-d's creation, making this place a beautiful home for the Divine reality.
We can take positive action, through increasing in activities that bring more light, goodness and kindness into the world. Do a good deed, help another person in need, give Tzedakah (a daily mitzvah), increase the spiritual light in your own home with Shabbat candles, Kiddush and the sacred Shabbat, and add in prayer and Torah study.
A central fund has been setup to help Jewish communities acrossUkraine, see here for more info: JBayArea.org/Ukraine.
May we blessed with a peaceful Shabbat, a truly joyous month of Adar and a Spring of true redemption with the coming of Moshiach speedily!
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Yitzchok Schmukler