Parshat Tezaveh - Zachor - The Power of a Thank You
by Rabbi Lobel

“And you shall command the Children of Israel and they should take for you clear olive oil, fit for illumination, to light a lamp continually.” (Exodus 27:20) This commandment refers to the daily lighting of the Menorah in the Tabernacle.

As the Medrash Rabba says (Exodus 31:2), G-d did not need our light for any purpose. Rather, G-d wants us to repay Him for all the light He has given us; now it was our turn to give G-d light. Just as G-d shined light upon us by giving us the “clouds of glory” during our time in the desert and leading us to the promise land, we repay G-d by lighting the Menorah in the Tabernacle.

Commenting on the Medrash, the Yefe Toar asks if G-d does not need our light how is lighting the Menorah in the Tabernacle repaying for all the goodness He has given us? Furthermore, how would it be possible to repay G-d for all He did for us in the desert if there isn't anything we can offer G-d that He cannot attain Himself?

Rather, the Yefe Toar explains, it is the gesture that is considered sufficient payback. By lighting the Menorah each day, we demonstrate our recognition and thanks for the light G-d has shined upon us and G-d considers our debt to be paid in full.

There are many situations when we can never truly repay the kindness shown us by others but showing how much we recognize and appreciate that kindness can go just as far. By being grateful for the kindness of others, we’re able to pay down our debt of gratitude.