How should a person strive to come close to G‑d? Should he leave behind him ordinary life, and retire to a secluded, protected atmosphere where he or she can meditate on profound ideas?

The story of Joseph in Egypt tells us about someone who was very much a part of the daily world: he worked as a servant; then, unjustly, he was thrown into prison. But throughout this time he was close to G‑d. The Parshah tells us that while working for Potiphar, "G‑d was with Joseph" and as a result he was given a position of responsibility (Genesis 39:21-2). Even when he was in prison he retained his spiritual quality.

The Jew seeks to be close to G‑d even when in a crisis situation. Through this we fulfill our goal to make this world, with all its problems, a dwelling for the Divine. The story of Joseph, who goes through dramatic ups and downs but in an intriguing way is always with G‑d, is our story too...