Why does the Torah wait until this week's parsha to tell us that the man Pinchas killed was Zimri, a leader of the tribe of Shimon? Why not reveal his identity when the incident occurred?
Rashi explains that the Torah reveals Zimri's identity to highlight Pinchas's courage. Zimri was a nasi, a leader of the Jewish people, yet Pinchas did not hesitate to act when Zimri publicly desecrated G-d's name.
There is also an important lesson here about influence. People are deeply affected by the behavior of those they respect. A leader's actions can encourage others to follow either good or bad examples.
This applies to us as well. We often focus on correcting other people's behavior, but our own actions may have an even greater impact. If we want others to become kinder, more respectful, or more committed to Torah and mitzvot, we should begin by demonstrating those qualities ourselves.
The most powerful way to influence others is to become the example we want them to follow.