Torah from Rabbi Saunders

In Parshas Noach, the Torah introduces us to a world submerged in chaos and despair. The generation of the flood had lost its moral compass, and Hashem, in His justice, brings the waters of destruction. Yet amidst the storm, one man floats above the tide: Noach, “a righteous man, perfect in his generations” (Bereishis 6:9).

But Noach’s righteousness is described with a curious word: “ “Noach walked with Hashem.” The commentators note that Noach’s relationship with Hashem was steady, dutiful, and obedient. He built the ark, followed instructions, and preserved life. Yet Chazal contrast Noach with Avraham, who walked before Hashem with initiative, passion, and joy.

This contrast invites a deeper question: Is it enough to serve Hashem with obedience alone? Or is there a higher calling , to serve Him with joy?

At the Delray Torah Center, we believe that joy is not a luxury in avodas Hashem  it’s the engine. Joy transforms mitzvos from burdens into blessings. It turns tefillah into song, learning into light, and community into connection.

Noach’s generation drowned in sadness, corruption, and isolation. But the rainbow that followed, the keshes, was a promise of  hope, and renewal. It’s a reminder that even after the storm, Hashem wants us to rebuild with joy.

So how do we bring joy into our service?

Through song: Whether it’s a spirited Kabbalas Shabbos or heartfelt Rosh Hashanah niggunim, music lifts the soul.

Through community: When we celebrate each other’s milestones, share simchas, and show up for one another, we reflect Hashem’s love.

Through meaning: When Torah speaks to our lives  our struggles, our dreams  it becomes a source of joy.

Let us be like Noach in righteousness, but like Avraham in joy. Let our ark be not just a refuge, but a sanctuary of song. And may our service of Hashem be infused with the kind of joy that uplifts, unites, and transforms.