17 Teves: Continual Growth

CONTINUAL GROWTH One who serves [G-d] out of love occupies himself in the Torah and the mitzvos and walks in the paths of wisdom for no ulterior motive, not because of fear that evil will occur, nor in order to acquire benefit. Rather, he does what is true because it is true, and ultimately, good will come because of it. This...is the level of our Patriarch, Abraham, whom G-d described as, “he who loved Me”... (Rambam, Hilchos Teshuvah 10:2) In exile, we do not fully appreciate the greatness of our service of G-d through Torah and mitzvos. Therefore, we need external challenges to motivate us. When Moshiach comes, however, we will be self-motivated. This mode of spiritual growth can be compared to a rocket. Unlike an airplane that requires air resistance to fly, a rocket carries its own fuel and is self-propelled. Once set in flight, it continues to soar effortlessly because there is nothing to slow its progress. When we enjoy the process of exploring, learning, and seeking to know G-d, we propel ourselves on a trajectory of lifelong growth. This is the way of Moshiach. Sichos Kodesh, Acharon shel Pesach 5723, Se'if 2