What does one do during these troubling and emotional times? What is the Jewish response?

It is precisely at these moments that we have to dig within and remember who we are and our story. We can’t let our enemies define us or control our narrative. We have a rich heritage and history. We have a robust and strong community. We have a unique role in society.

In a recent interview with the daughter of Keith Siegel, a hostage released a few weeks ago, she recounted that in the darkest place of the tunnels of Gaza, her father felt lost and alone and needed something to hold to in order to keep his identity as a Jew.

He started saying small prayers like Shema, making blessings on the food (something he never did before then). This helped him feel rooted and connected to his people and himself and gave him strength.

When he was freed and arrived back in Israel, his family, who had been imagining and planning his first Shabbat dinner back home for 500 days, asked what special dish he wanted on the menu.

His response surprised them: “More than anything else, I want a Kippah and Kiddush cup.”

Keith’s deepest response to the darkness and depravity that surrounded him was to anchor himself in his Judaism and to find strength in our heritage.

Throughout history we have been through the worst oppression but we never lost hope or sight of our identity and mission. As hard as it is, we have to stand taller than before with even greater Jewish resolve.

The Parsha this week instructs us to build a Mishkan, a sanctuary. A place where G-d can dwell and feel at home.

We too can build a “Mishkan” in our lives. Creating those anchors that keep our life together and help us stay focused and connected to the true and valuable meaning of life.

A life that brings G-dly values into everyday life allows the Shechina (G-d’s presence) to dwell in it and be present.

This can be done by inviting Hashem into our business by dealing honestly and making Hashem our partner by giving generously to charity.

We can also invite Hashem into our homes by infusing it with peace love and compromise.

May Hashem bless the Jewish people with peace, security and tranquility.

Shabbat Shalom