The ancient text, Sifrei Devarim, offers a radical idea about that very possibility.
It starts with a verse from Deuteronomy (16:16): "…the presence (pnei) of the L-rd your G-d." The rabbis of the Sifrei Devarim read so much more than just surface meaning here. They suggest that if we dedicate ourselves fully, making the pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem, then G-d, in turn, will "free" (poneh, which sounds like pnei) Himself from all other affairs and occupy Himself with us alone. The Divine turning its full attention toward you.
But what about the timing? The verse mentions the three pilgrimage festivals: Passover (Pesach, the festival of matzoth), Shavuot, and Succot. We might assume that if someone fails to bring their offerings on the very first festival, they're immediately in the wrong, transgressing the commandment, "You shall not delay to pay it" (Deuteronomy 23:22).
The text anticipates this question. It points out that Numbers 29:39 states, "These shall you offer to the L-rd on your festivals." Does this mean you’re in trouble if you miss the first two festivals?
The answer, according to Sifrei Devarim, is no. The verse specifies "on the festival of matzoth, and on the festival of Shavuoth, and on the festival of Succoth" to teach us a crucial point: You're not in transgression until all the festivals of the year have passed. There's a window of opportunity, a chance to fulfill your obligations throughout the entire cycle.
Now, Rabbi Shimon offers a slightly different perspective. He says that the three festivals must be observed in order, with Succot being the last. This highlights the importance of the sequence and the cumulative effect of observing all three.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Rabbi Elazar ben Shimon suggests that the mention of Succot might even seem redundant. Isn't the entire verse already about these festivals? He argues that the inclusion of Succot specifically emphasizes that passing it is the cause of the transgression. It's the final deadline, so to speak.
What does this all mean? It's not just about following rules or meeting deadlines. It's about the ongoing relationship between humanity and the Divine. It's about the opportunity for connection, for being seen, and for G-d, in a sense, making time specifically for us.
Perhaps the deeper message here is about intention. The rabbis aren't just focused on the technicalities of the law. They're inviting us to consider the spirit behind the commandments. Are we approaching these festivals with a sincere desire to connect? Are we making a genuine effort to fulfill our obligations?
The Sifrei Devarim reminds us that it’s never too late to turn our attention towards the Divine, and in doing so, perhaps we create the space for the Divine to turn its attention towards us. It's a beautiful, reciprocal dance, one that unfolds with each passing festival, each heartfelt offering, each sincere attempt to connect.