Rabbi Wolf's Blog

This week it was yet again confirmed that which we know to be true deep in our gut.

That when the entire world cooperates together in unison to achieve a goal, no matter how audacious it may be, it will always succeed.

After a long and scary 18-day ordeal, 12 boys and their teacher were rescued from a dangerous and water-filled cave, more than one mile underground in Thailand.

The boys were young, hungry and depleted. Extracting them required long stretches underwater, in bone-chilling temperatures, and keeping them submerged for around 40 minutes at a time. They had never learnt how to swim.

When the brainpower, skills and dedication of people all over the world joined forces, the rescue was successful. All in all, 10,000 people participated, including 2,000 soldiers, 200 divers and representatives from 100 government agencies (and yes, as has come to be expected, Israeli technology was key to the rescue, even if it isn't being reported).

It seems obvious, that if all the worlds resources collaborated together, we would cure cancer, solve world hunger and poverty, eliminate bloodshed, and achieve a safe, peaceful and prosperous world for all.

This is what Jewish tradition has believed all along. Our ancient Rabbi's taught that when we will all learn how to live together lovingly and peacefully, then Moshiach would come and usher in a world of redemption.

Some have understood this as a kind of reward for good behavior.

But it isn't. It's the natural consequence that results from global unity.

Jewish tradition teaches that when Moshiach will come, there will be no more hunger, jealousy, war or illness.

This isn't some sort of magical phenomenon. It may just be the natural result of shalom - world peace.

Perhaps you and I have little influence over the world order. But it begins in our own lives - in our homes, families, neighborhood and communities. In our circles of influence we have the power to help eliminate hatred, hunger, and conflict. We have the ability to help others find health, happiness and prosperity.

So let's do our part. Let's be courageous and hopeful. If you and I will lead, others will follow.