Daily Aliya for Yitro, Chamishi (5th Aliya)

Aliya Summary: Moshe conveyed to the people G‑d's words, who, in turn, accepted upon themselves to do all that G‑d commands of them. G‑d then instructed Moshe to have the Israelites prepare themselves, because in three days' time He would reveal Himself atop the mountain to the entire nation. The Israelites were commanded to sanctify themselves and were warned not to approach the mountain until after the divine revelation. On the morning of the third day, thunder, lightning, a thick cloud and the piercing sound of a shofar emanated from the mountaintop. Mt. Sinai was smoking and trembling, while the sound of the shofar grew steadily louder. Moshe escorted the shuddering and frightened nation to the mountain, and settled them at its base.

G-d tells Moshe that the People should "sanctify themselves today AND tomorrow". It is relatively easy to sanctify oneself on the day of the great miraculous events of receiving the Torah. The challenge to each of us is to sanctify ourselves on the many tomorrows that follow. The days after the magnificent spiritual experiences. The days when our lives return to "normal" is what being a Jew is about.