Rabbi's Message
This Shabbat is Rosh Chodesh Teivet and Chanukah. In past years we have discussed the fact that we will use three Sifrei Torah this Shabbat. This can only happen on four possible occasions.
I would like to focus on a slightly different anomaly that occurs this Shabbat. When we say Birkat Hamazon after we eat our Shabbat meals, we will be presented with the longest possible Bentching. This is the only time of year when we add Al Hanissim, Retzei and Ya'aleh V'Yavo. While that may not seem like such a big deal to some, I think it is something definitely worth noting.
In life we tend to focus on things that are wrong, especially when they are in multiples. This Shabbat, we have the opportunity to focus on a confluence of great events and celebrations all at once. A weekly Shabbat combined with a monthly Rosh Chodesh topped off with the light of Chanukah is nothing to sneeze at. We mark these sacred events by giving thanks to Hashem for all the goodness in our lives.
So though the meal may take a little longer because of the Bentching, we should never forget the significance of all the blessings we have been given.
Shabbat Shalom, Chodesh Tov and Chag Urim Sameach!