There is a famous euphemism in Judaism: “greater is the one who was commanded to do something and does it, than one who was not commanded to do something and does it anyway.” This week we get a detailed directive of exactly how and when to assemble the mishkan. Just a few versus later, we go through the whole thing again-in just as much detail-when Moshe actually sets up the Mishkan. Why do we go through everything, yet again? The Torah is never needlessly verbose and indeed there seems to be a deeper meaning here as well.
Moshe did exactly as God instructed. He did not add or change anything, did not question each step. Moshe did what to many of us seems impossible, or at least extremely difficult: He was commanded to do something and he did it immediately, and without any sort of alteration.
How many times are we asked-begged-to do something/go somewhere/be a part of something and we decline or do it halfheartedly? There is such a simple and yet profound lesson here to be learned from Moshe Rabbeinu, and in part I think also from our dear Azi z”l. When asked to do something, Azi did it. Quietly, but perfectly and immediately-nearly always. “Greater is the one who was commanded to do something, and does it…” To be asked to perform, and rise to the occasion. It is a lofty goal indeed.