יום ג Date: 23 Adar II, 5774 (3/25/14) – Sukkah#50 {Eliezer}

Challenge Yourself –

R’ Nechemiah [50a bottom]: Uncovered water is unsafe to drink because a snake could put its poison into it (and undrinkable water may not be used on the Altar). If there was a strainer over the barrel, the poison would be separated and then it is permitted to drink. However, even though there may no longer be an inherent danger to drink it, when we offer it to G-d we use much higher standards and such water would still be disqualified to use.
Malachei (Perek Aleph): Hashem says that He is not interested in our stolen, lame, or sick sacrifices.
Iben Ezra and Radak: Kayin’s offering was rejected because he brought it from the cheapest of his crops. Hevel’s, however, was offered to Hashem from the finest of his flocks and was accepted.

E’s lesson: Hashem not only completely rejects outright insufficiencies, but even completely valid potential offerings are deflected if not brought with complete love and a pure heart. We should not just give of ourselves when it is convenient or easy. We are in this world to be challenged and to grow. If it comes ‘naturally,’ what gain do our souls really get? We should always strive to push ourselves beyond our comfort levels and look to do everything in each day with more enthusiasm and zealousness than the day before.