Kedoshim Tihiu - You Shall Be Holy Leviticus 19:1-2.
When is one referred to as holy? When one does any action that brings honor, respect, and glory to Hashem, thereby sanctifying His name. When praying for the souls of those who were killed or murdered just for being Jewish, having had the ultimate self-sacrifice for G-d, they are referred to as kedoshim, holy ones.
When one is willing to make self-sacrifices for G-d, it is referred to as mesiras nefesh, giving over of their souls. Interestingly, Rashi, the foremost commentary on the Torah, translates the word nefesh as desires. When I give up doing something I want to do because Hashem tells me to do otherwise, or because by doing so I am giving up a bit of myself to make Hashem's name greater, I am kadosh. I am holy.
The above verse has us ask ourselves what is one thing we want to do but will hold back on, just in order to be holy?
As we reflect on this concept, I encourage you to ask yourself: What is one thing I can do today that will bring me closer to Hashem, even if it means giving up something I desire? What is one thing I can do to make Hashem's name greater?
May we all strive to be kedoshim, holy ones, and may our actions bring honor and glory to Hashem's name. May we remember that we can be holy while remaining alive, and may our daily choices reflect our commitment to sanctifying Hashem's name.
Wishing you an amazing Shabbos,
Rabbi Kushi Schusterman.