And Jewish tradition offers some powerful comfort in those moments.

Today, we're diving into a fascinating passage from Midrash Tehillim, a collection of interpretations on the Book of Psalms. Specifically, we're looking at Psalm 118 and the reassurance it offers: "The Lord is for me, I shall not fear; What can man do to me?"

It’s a bold statement, isn’t it? Almost defiant. But where does that confidence come from?

The Midrash begins by drawing parallels between David, the author of many Psalms, and earlier figures in our history. Just as Abraham questioned Abimelech, "What will you do to me?", and Jacob wondered about Esau, and David himself challenged Goliath, "What will you do to me?", so too can we find strength in the face of adversity. It's a lineage of courage, passed down through generations.

But the Midrash doesn't stop there. It goes on to paint a vivid picture of the Jewish people standing in judgment before the Almighty. Imagine the scene: a courtroom of cosmic proportions. Naturally, there's fear, apprehension. But then, the ministering angels step in with a message of profound reassurance.

"Do not be afraid," they say, "for He is your kinsman." This is more than just a distant, all-powerful being. This is family. The angels remind us, drawing on verses from other parts of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible), that God is our brother, our father. “Is not he your father who bought you?” (Deuteronomy 32:6) it asks. It's an incredibly intimate and personal relationship, a bond that transcends the formality of judgment. As it says in Isaiah 43:1, "Israel, my chosen ones." What does it mean to have God as your family?

The Midrash continues by contrasting Israel's unwavering faith with the actions of five righteous individuals: Noah, Shem, Eber, Abraham, and Assyria (interestingly included among the righteous). Noah, rather than confronting the wickedness around him, retreated into his own world, planting a vineyard. Shem and Eber hid themselves away. Even Ashur, feeling overwhelmed, chose to leave, as it says, “From that land, he went out to Assyria” (Genesis 10:11). All understandable reactions, perhaps, but ultimately a withdrawal.

But Abraham? Abraham's righteousness, the Midrash tells us, stands forever. He doesn't abandon God, and God, in turn, doesn't abandon him. "I am the Lord who brought you out" (Genesis 15:7), God proclaims. It's a reciprocal commitment, a covenant of unwavering support.

So, what does this all mean for us today?

I think it's a reminder that even when we feel vulnerable, facing judgment or adversity, we are not alone. We have a powerful advocate, a loving family member, in the Divine. The Midrash invites us to tap into that ancient wellspring of faith, to remember the words of the Psalmist: "The Lord is for me, I shall not fear; What can man do to me?"

It's not about being fearless, but about finding the courage to face our fears, knowing that we are supported, loved, and ultimately, never truly alone. Can we access that deep well of faith that Abraham had? The Midrash seems to suggest that we can, and that in doing so, we too can stand strong in the face of whatever challenges life throws our way.