Is Mashiach Waiting for Us to Come Home?

 Is Mashiach Waiting for Us to Come Home? This is the big question that our member Rabbi Paul Bloom poses powerfully in the following piece, which was first published last week in Jewish Link. Please feel welcome to send a link to this article to any family and friends you may have back in the "Old Country" -- whichever it may be --and encourage them to take up the rewarding challenge of making Aliyah.

We have just experienced our redemption from Egypt: we experienced the splitting of the Red Sea and the singing of the Shira. The Redemption of Egypt is the prototype for our final redemption. We have seen many signs over the past 77 years that indicate that we are approaching the final redemption, but why aren’t we there yet?

Is Mashiach Waiting for Us?

In Siach Nechama, Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky wrote that the Mashiach is alive and already with us—and that the redemption is fully prepared. It will come the moment Am Yisrael merits it.That was several years ago. So why hasn’t the Mashiach revealed himself yet?

Over the past 18 months, Hashem has shown us open miracles. Hundreds of Iranian and Houthi missiles have failed to cause significant harm. Countless personal miracles have taken place across Israel. A spiritual awakening is underway—Jews are returning to mitzvot, putting on tefillin, wearing tzitzit, keeping Shabbat. Torah learning is booming throughout the Diaspora.

And still, no redemption.

The Rambam gives us a clear sign of Mashiach’s approach:

“The very sign that Mashiach is on the way is when Jews from all over the Diaspora make Aliyah” (Laws of Kings, 11:1).

The Voices of Our Gedolim

Rav Yitzchok Breuer said: “It was Hashem who exiled us—but it was our sins that distanced us from our Land. The distancing was our own doing.”

Rav Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld taught: “Anyone who has the ability to come to Eretz Yisrael and does not will have to account for it in the World to Come.”

Rabbi Shlomo Aviner observed:
 “People don’t make Aliyah because they are in love with the exile and don’t want to give it up. Rabbis must make Aliyah a central part of Jewish education.”

But It's a Big Decision...

Of course it is. Aliyah affects your entire family—career, finances, education, comfort zones. But many of the common objections are less overwhelming than they seem. Here are a few, with some perspectives:

“I have a great job in America.”

Israel has a booming economy—4th strongest in the world. Salaries may be lower, but healthcare and education are much more affordable. Many jobs are now remote or in-demand in Israel.

“My elderly parents need me.”

 This is a real concern—but Israel is one of the most elderly-friendly countries in the world, with better healthcare, higher life expectancy, and deep cultural respect for seniors.

“My children are too old to adapt.”

 Yes, transitions are tough between ages 7–16. But today there are Anglo-focused schools, youth programs, and strong support systems to help your kids thrive.

“I love American culture.”

 So much of American culture—innovation, individuality, creativity—is also thriving in Israel. You may miss some things, but you'll find plenty of cultural vibrancy in return.

“My children/grandchildren are here.”

 True, it’s hard. But many olim report that they spend more meaningful time with family post-Aliyah, because visits are more intentional and focused.

“The cost of living is too high.”

 Prices are rising everywhere—but competition in Israel is increasing, and the savings on healthcare and tuition are major. Financial planning makes a big difference.

“I don’t speak Hebrew.”

 English is widely spoken, especially in Anglo communities. There’s Ulpan, Nefesh B’Nefesh programs, and plenty of people willing to help.

“I’m afraid of change.”

 We’ve all faced big changes—marriage, moving, new jobs. Change is hard, but it’s often the door to growth.

“My Rabbi isn’t going.”

 Many American rabbis stay to support those still in the Diaspora. But a large number do make Aliyah after retirement.

“I don’t like the Israeli government.”

 Governments change. Over half the members of the Knesset are Shomrei Shabbat. The best way to have a voice in Israel’s future is to live there and vote.

Other Objections?

You enjoy two-day Yom Tov? You want more time to "get mitzvot right" first? Florida is warmer? We all have rationalizations. But they deserve honest reflection.

The Bottom Line

Yes, making Aliyah is a major decision. It deserves serious thought. But don’t let fear, comfort, or misinformation be your guide. Research. Ask questions. Listen to the Gedolim. Look at what’s unfolding in our world.

We pray every day to return to Zion. Hashem is showing us the door. Will we walk through it?

So, when you meet that “Aliyah zealot,” remember: they may just be holding up a mirror. Take a moment to ask—what’s really holding me back?

Because Mashiach is already here.  He’s just waiting for you to come home.