“Although severe heart disease had caused a permanent malfunctioning of my arteries, I was thankful to be alive,” related a congregant at the Lubavitch shul. “The doctors had promised that medication, a restriction of activity, and other changes in my lifestyle would reduce the immediate threat to my health.”

“Some time later, the Rebbe wrote me: ‘Increase your involvement in the Lubavitch center’s activities,’ as ‘this will increase G‑d’s blessing for a speedy and complete recovery.’

“I was taken aback. I had become accustomed to the medication and my restricted activities, which had stabilized my condition. Furthermore, the Rebbe had instructed me to increase my involvement in Lubavitch activity. Increase it? The doctors had so restricted me that I was hardly involved at all!

“With mixed feelings, I offered my services to the local Lubavitch center. The overburdened staff was happy to delegate responsibilities to me. As the weeks passed, my involvement grew, and I began to feel better. Soon I became extremely busy, and I neglected my doctor’s strict orders for rest and minimal activity.

“In the meantime, the date of my quarterly examination arrived. As the cardiologist proceeded through the tests, I could tell that something had happened. He reviewed the results again and again, and consulted with other doctors. There was no mistake; the malfunction had corrected itself.

“Ever since, the extent of my Lubavitch activities has served as an accurate barometer for my heart condition. The more active I am, the more efficiently my heart pumps.”