M eteorologists may have their own theories for the timing of hurricane season but the juxtaposition of Irma and Elul drive home many fateful lessons for the thinking Jew
Just four weeks ago I wrote about two figurative hurricanes on a collision course in the Pacific Ocean namely Kim Jong-un of North Korea and Donald J. Trump of the USA. I discussed the global fear generated by these two capricious political leaders who seem ready in their recklessness to push the world over the brink of destruction. And I quoted Rav Eliyahu Dessler in Michtav MeEliyahu who explains that this existential fear carries within it the seeds of Geulah in accordance with the Maharal’s interpretation of the gemara that says “The Mashiach sits at the gates of Rome.”
Then before anyone could foresee how that standoff would end the region got another painful wake-up call. This time it wasn’t just a vague fear but very real destruction threatening millions of people. I’m referring of course to Hurricane Irma which left utter devastation in the Caribbean and strewed fear and panic even before it made landfall in Florida. Millions were forced to abandon the homes that could no longer be relied on for shelter. As they headed north taking just enough possessions to get them through the storm they took along the painful realization that material acquisitions ultimately afford no protection.
A picture of Trump’s cabinet sitting and praying made a poignant statement. Here were the most powerful people in the world — keenly aware of their helplessness. However proud a human being might be of his achievements (and certainly Mr. Trump is not deficient in vitamin P) there comes a time when he must know his limitations and turn to the One Who truly holds the power.
