When I think of Parshas Vayakhel, I think of lists.

When I think of a Shekel, I think of risks.

When I think of a month I think of a cycle.

We will be announcing the new cycle of the new month of Adar this Shabbos. It will be familiar yet new, will I have the energy to invigorate it with Kedusha and grow?

The new month will be announced on the heels of our reading about the shekalim, that, having followed the list of all of the items made for the Mishkan to be used by the Kohanim.

The most important aspect of the Mishkan being,

כאשר צוה השם את משה

It was all created, formed , and sewed, to the precise requirements demanded by Hashem of Moshe. Moshe was the most humble of all men, having been in direct contact with our Maker. He always knew and kept in mind the proper perspective of life and the commandments demanded of him.

Moshe did not deviate, his cycle of serving Hashem involved, different opportunities, various ways of connecting to his Maker. Always with excitement with vigor.

Did Moshe give half a Shekel as his donation when being counted or a whole one?

The Halacha is clear, no matter who no matter when, each person only gives a half. No one person, even Moshe Rabbeinu is complete in this world. We all are here on a mission to connect with each other and our Maker. To embrace opportunities for growth and communication, to follow the commandments of our Maker without deviation.

With joy!

משנכנס אדר מרבים בשמחה

This month in particular, brings with it a missive to express ourselves and be exuberant in our mission.

Let your Neshama exault in it’s holiness, let it be fed by the Kedusha of Shabbos, of Mitzvos, and Torah. Let it fill your body with emotion and devotion to it’s Maker. Lift your voice in song, your feet in dance and your arms with excitement. Feel the warmth of your soul growing and succeeding from donating to good causes, as we celebrate a new month of Joy. That will G-d willing be the first step of the final redemption, moving forward on to Nissan, spring and a new generation.