After the sin of the golden calf, Hashem was going to destroy Klal Yisroel. Chazal tell us that in the ensuing conversation, Hashem informed Moshe of his decision to destroy the nation and Moshe assumed that there was nothing he could do to stop it. But Hashem said, “Release me, and I shall destroy them” indicating to Moshe that there was in fact something that he could do! Immediately he stood up and davened on behalf of the Jews, and was successful in saving them. How was Moshe able to pray on behalf of the people who had done such a terrible thing? This was one of the most outstanding qualities that Moshe possessed, and something that we can all embody. Because of the immense love he had for the people, and the confidence in their ability to return to Hashem, he was able to stand up and beg for mercy, obtaining forgiveness from Hashem and ultimately ensuring the continuity of Am Yisroel.
Each one of us possesses this quality and can be the catalyst for positive growth when we look at other Yidden with Moshe Rabeinu eyes.
