Shalom, Mishpacha!
“If you see your brother’s ox or his sheep go astray, you shall not hide yourself from them - you shall certainly bring them back to your brother.”
- Devarim 22:1
The Torah’s instruction to return what is lost is far more than a rule about property - it is a mirror of YHVH’s own nature. He restores what is broken, redeems what is strayed, and calls His people to do likewise. When YHVH commands that we “shall not hide ourselves,” He addresses the condition of the heart - our tendency to avoid responsibility when something is inconvenient or when “it is not our problem.” But for the covenant people, every wrong we can make right is our concern.
This mitzvah teaches us that righteousness is active, not passive. We do not merely avoid evil; we pursue good. Yahusha illustrated this in His parables - leaving the ninety-nine to seek the one lost sheep, and restoring what was separated back to the fold. Every act of returning what is lost, whether physical or spiritual, imitates the redemptive character of YHVH Himself.
To return what is lost is to bring back order to what has fallen into disorder. This applies not only to physical belongings but also to restoring honour, relationships, and truth. If someone’s reputation has been damaged, we restore it through truth and intercession. If someone’s faith has faltered, we strengthen and return them gently to the path.
In today’s society, many hide behind indifference - “it’s not mine, it’s not my problem.” But Torah teaches a higher standard: to see and to act. Whether we find a lost wallet, a hurting soul, or a forgotten truth, we are accountable to respond in the spirit of YHVH’s righteousness. Each act of returning something lost is a prophetic act of healing the breaches in the world.
When we live this way, our communities thrive in trust, and heaven’s culture begins to manifest on earth. Restoration is the language of YHVH’s Kingdom - the antidote to the selfishness that defines our age.
Abba YHVH, we thank You for being the Restorer of all things. Teach us not to hide ourselves when we see what is broken or lost. Give us discerning eyes to recognize opportunities for restoration and willing hands to act upon them. May Your Ru'ach HaQodesh guide us in honesty, integrity, and compassion. Let us reflect Your justice and mercy through every small act of restitution. Help us to rebuild trust, renew hope, and reveal Your Kingdom through our obedience.
Baruch YHVH.
May YHVH bless you and guard you.
May YHVH make His face shine upon you and show favour to you.
May YHVH lift up His face upon you and give you shalom.
- Bemidbar 6:24-26
Baruch YHVH.
Shalom until tomorrow.