Midot Hayom Day 5: Hod in Chesed

When Job harvested his field, everyone saw that there were clouds tied about his harvest so that the dry heat would not remove the moisture from [the produce] (Tanchuma, Toledot 13). I do not have any proof, but I suspect that people far and wide looked to

Job, famous as a master of Chesed, to be sure that his crops would succeed, as so many people were dependent on his generosity. This Midrash paints a picture in my mind of a visible magic that would rest over Job’s efforts to assure people that the generous man would have more to share.

Job’s Chesed defined him and the way people perceived him. God responded by blessing Job’s crops with this Hod – a shine of beautiful blessing, so that the Chesed began long before he could share his bounty with others. The clouds were Hod in Chesed.

People are often hesitant to ask for time or help, especially when they wonder whether the giver has the wherewithal to share. Our Chesed begins before people turn to us for help when we project the Hod of Chesed and demonstrate that we are available and able to help.

We currently are in a situation in which many people have lost their jobs and are further frustrated by the fact that so many charitable people and foundations are overwhelmed by the numerous requests for assistance. Events have caused us to lose the Hod of our Chesed. People cannot see the “clouds” that protect the blessings of those to whom they turn for help.

Hod in Chesed asks us to find ways to restore people’s confidence that Chesed will continue to thrive and be blessed.

Tools:

Research organizations and special projects that are successfully helping people during these difficult times.

Share stories of such successful Chesed efforts so that word will spread and nurture hope.

Determine the best way you can help others and let them know that there is something you can do.