Off on my travels – Lech L’cha
It has been so long since people could travel freely. Some airlines are at work, most are grounded. Sea travel by means of cruise ships is a worry. Hopefully everyone is davening for the defeat of the virus and the return of what we fondly call normalcy.
In the meantime we have a narrative to read this Shabbat which speaks of Abraham setting out for a destination which God will show him.
He soon discovers the good – and the bad – points of travel. The Midrash Tehillim says on Psalm 23, “Travel is hard on your clothes, your person and your purse”.
All this is true, but if you understand Abraham and his travels metaphorically you know there are no problems.
The itinerary is in the hands of God. He decides on the destination. He tells Abraham that the travel is necessary. Why? Because embarking on a God-given task brings purpose and energy into one’s life.
You can have that feeling even when you stay home and only your mind roams.