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Parshat Toldot delves into the subject of  responsibilities. In this weeks Parsha Eisav gives up his birthright to Yaakov for a bowl of soup. He tells Yaakov“Look I am going to die, so of what me is the birthright ( Br 25:32).”  Rashi Tried to understand exactly what Esav’s fear is. He explains —”The birthright is something unstable, for not always will the sacrificial duties be performed by the first-born, for the tribe of Levi will assume this. Further Esau said: What is the nature of this Service? Jacob replied, “Many prohibitions and punishments and many acts involving even the punishment of death are associated with it — just as we read in the Mishna, (Sanhedrin 22b): The following priests are liable to death: those who carry out their duties after having drunk too much wine and those who officiate long-haired. He said: If I am going to die through it, why should I desire it.” According to Rashi before turning down the birthright Esav did his research, he asked Yaakov what exactly does it mean to be the oldest. After Yaakov explained Esav understood that the future of the birthright was a tremendous responsibility and that the priests had so many jobs that had to be done well and if done wrong could result in death. By Eisav selling the birthright he is actually showing the importance of being a first born.
 
We learn from Eisav to not be like Eisav. We should not run away from challenges even if they seem too difficult. We should not have the same mindset Eisav did when faced with difficulty. Hashem won’t give us a challenge we cannot handle. By accepting the opportunities Hashem gives us it allows us to become greater Jewish people and closer to Hashem. When any opportunity comes we should push ourselves to do the best we can and believe Hashem is doing this for a reason.
Have a good Shabbat!