The Divrei Torah in this section have been translated by Rav Reuven Ungar, Director of Alumni Affairs
Trust and Initiative
By: Rav Yechezkel Yakovson
"An Intelligent Servant"- this is Eliezer (Midrash R
In the army we frequently encounter an attitude of minimal input (rosh katan). A soldier may decide to merely fulfill his orders; he cannot be punished for this. However, there also are soldiers (unfortunately, in small quantities) who take the initiative (rosh gadol). They recognize the spirit of the order and its' goals. Such soldiers execute their commands and endeavor to completely attain the goal.
Some servants resemble shadows. Others are trustworthy (eved ne'eman) and pro-active.
Eliezer personified the latter type of servant. He took the initiative to find the most fitting wife for Yitzchak. Eliezer circumvented all possible hitches from the completion of his mission. This was accomplished despite his own interest of having Yitzchak become his own son-in-law.
In our personal Divine Service we must emulate the traits of Eliezer. The Ramchal mentions in Mesilat Yesharim (Chapter 18) that the root of Chasidut and the love of Hashem is exemplified by attaining the goal of the Mitzvoth. Of course, we must meticulously perform the details of each halacha. Yet, one should not suffice with merely fulfilling the bare letter of the law. We express our love by striving to fulfill the aims that each mitzvah contains. Let us strive to accomplish above and beyond the minimal requirements.
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