This week's parsha is a continuation of the previous Torah portion. It expands the description of the sacrificial offerings. The parsha begins with the laws of the burnt offering. "[The priest] should shovel out the ashes that remain from the burnt offering which the fire consumed on the Altar and put them down next to the Altar. He should then…take out the ashes to a clean place outside the camp."
Why does the same priest shovel the ashes on the Altar, a lofty task, as well as take out the ashes, a seemingly menial task?
It is human nature to embrace jobs that bring one glamour, honor and distinction; however, few run to perform necessary tasks that seem undistinguished and menial. Torah teaches that in the eyes of G-d, every job, and every mitzvah (commandment) is equal; none is more important or more revered than another. Every act can bring honor, respect and glory to G-d. Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, explains in Likutei Sichos that we should be dedicated to serving G-d not only with lofty, honorable tasks, but should also delight in simple, physical chores that are needed to prepare for the observance of a mitzvah.
As parents, the tasks we are required to perform day after day hardly are glamorous. It takes a great deal of effort to keep a home running, managing and executing all of the essential details. If we are mindful that these lowly chores are also the service of G-d, we will become empowered and will be able to perform them zealously and enthusiastically. With the same attitude, we can encourage our children to rise to the occasion, not only for high-profile, distinguished jobs, but also for the often unrecognized but absolutely necessary, nitty-gritty tasks.
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