Hope you’re having a great day.
… “Once upon a time…”
Most cultures have parables. A fictional story with a moral lesson.
Here’s one told by a great Rabbi in the 18th century.
With a huge lesson for us.
… There was a man whose two sons lived in a different country.
One was not wealthy, but did alright.
The other never quiet got his life together.
He never held down a job for very long, and was quiet poor.
The father’s friends were throwing a big 70th birthday party in his honor.
He really wanted his two sons to be there.
So he sent them tickets, and a note.
“My celebration won’t be complete without you.
Treat yourselves to some new clothes. And don’t worry about expenses.
Anything that you spend in my honor, I will cover.”
The first son seized the opportunity.
He went out and upgraded his wardrobe big time.
“In honor of Dad! He’ll feel great!”
And the other son?
He didn’t even know where to go for nice clothing.
… The day of their arrival comes and the father goes to meet them.
He sees the first son and is delighted.
But then he sees the other son still wearing his old and shabby clothes.
And he’s very disappointed.
… As the trip comes to an end?
The first son is wondering…
“What’s with the check?”
Finally he says…
‘Dad. I’m sure things have been very hectic. You must have forgotten about the check.”
The father says, “What check?”
“You know, Dad. The note you wrote me about covering my expenses.”
The father says, “What are you talking about?”
Don’t you remember, Dad? You said you would cover anything I spent in your honor?”
The father’s response?
“Son. You didn’t spend anything in my honor.”
Because if you wanted to honor me?
You would have made sure your brother got new clothes!”
… Next time we think that we have done something in “G-d’s honor”?
That our “Father in Heaven” must be thrilled with us!
We should remember that G-d has other children.
And we should ask ourselves.
Have we taken care of our brother?
All the best,