Two orphaned brothers lived in a certain city. They had inherited a large and beautiful house from their father. But since they needed the income, they rented out the large estate, and lived in a much humbler condominium.
Once a major fire broke out in the city. The brothers worked hard to protect the apartment from the fire.
A wise man gave them a funny look. "Why are you working so hard to save someone else's house? You would be better off making sure your own house, which is your permanent inheritance, won't go up in flames!"
Building Up Our House
The lesson for us is clear, said the Maggid. We should work toward regaining and settling our own inheritance - in the Land of Israel - and not expend all of our efforts in building up temporary dwellings, in communities outside the Land...
Adapted from Mishlei Yaakov, pp. 342-343
