The Seventh section of the Chumash of Bereishit / Genesis begins with the chronicle of our third patriarch, Jacob. It opens as he leaves Canaan to find a wife from among his kinsmen in Aram.

Following his dream recorded early in the portion, he is confident in G-d’s protection and sets out on his journey.

“Light of foot, Jacob set out for the land of the people who lived in the east.” (29:1)

Even though Jacob was on his way to enter a spiritually dangerous environment, his joy in fulfilling his Divine mission and trust in G-d’s protection permeated his very being, down to his feet.

Following Jacob’s example, we can adopt the same joyful and confident attitude when we set out to tackle life’s numerous daily, mundane activities, even though they may not seem spiritual.

The key is to make sure beforehand that, like Jacob, we are properly nourished (by studying the Torah), properly clothed (by observing G-d’s commandments), and properly focused on our goal (of making this world into G-d’s home).

WITH OUR CONTINUED PRAYERS FOR OUR IDF SOLDIERS, THE RETURN OF ALL OF OUR HOSTAGES COUPLED WITH AN EVERLASTING PEACE IN ISRAEL, WITH MOSHIACH, AMEN.

Wishing you a meaningful Shabbat with a successful week to follow.