One of our challenges today is making religion feel relevant and personally meaningful. It's easy to see Torah and mitzvot as distant, rigid rules or ancient customs meant for people in a very different time. Sometimes, it can feel like we're just going through the motions, doing things because we're supposed to rather than because we truly feel connected.
The answer to this dilemma lies at the heart of Judaism and is something profoundly personal: I need to have a relationship with my G-d.
Not just "G-d," in an abstract or general sense, but my G-d - who created me, knows me, loves me, and wants to have a relationship with me. This shift in perspective changes everything. It's no longer about checking boxes or fitting into a mold. It's about building a connection and nurturing a bond that is unique and alive. Like any relationship, it takes effort, communication, and presence, but it's also deeply rewarding and real.
This idea is powerfully reflected in this week's Torah portion Naso, in the Priestly Blessing: "Yevarechecha Hashem v'yishmerecha..." – "May Hashem bless you and guard you..." "Ya'er Hashem panav eilecha..." – "May Hashem shine His face toward you..." "Yisa Hashem panav eilecha v'yasem lecha shalom." – "May Hashem lift His face to you and grant you peace."
Notice how the blessing is phrased in the singular you, not you all. It's intimate and individual. G-d isn't blessing the Jewish people as a collective at this moment; He's turning to each one of us personally. When we realize this, religion stops being something we have to do and starts becoming something we're honored to do. It becomes a relationship that empowers, comforts, and guides us. Torah and mitzvot become the language of love between us and G-d—not a burden, but a bridge.
So the next time you feel like G-d or Judaism is far away, remember the Priestly Blessing. It's not just a beautiful set of words—it's a message from your Creator, saying: I see you. I bless you. I'm here for you. Now it's time for us to respond and say thank you, Hashem; I love you too!