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In the introduction to "Ein Yaakov," the author cites a classic Tannaic dispute pertaining to what constitutes a "klal gadol baTorah - great rule in the Torah." While Ben Zoma identifies "Shema Yisroel" as the paradigmatic "klal gadol baTorah", Ben Nanas cites "v'ahavta l'reacha" and Shimon ben Pazi quotes "es hakevesh echad ta'aseh baboker". Perhaps one could suggest that these three opinions reflect the three pillars of the world described in the Mishnah Avos (1:2): "Shema Yisroel" refers to the paramount importance of Torah; "es hakevesh echad ta'aseh baboker" alludes to the Avodah; and "v'ahavta l'reacha" highlights gemilus chasadim.
While the opinions of Ben Zoma and Ben Nanas are quite understandable, the citation of Shimon ben Pazi appears to demand explanation. Why does Shimon ben Pazi overlook broader, more universalistic aphorisms in favor of a seemingly specific and technical halachah pertaining to the daily Mikdash service?
Perhaps Shimon ben Pazi is wishes to convey that the foundation of the Torah rests upon consistency and persistence in the service of HaKadosh Baruch Hu. Just as the Tamid offering is brought twice daily, day-in and day-out, our commitment to Torah and mitzvos must always be present, regardless of emotional reluctance or personal hindrance. Indeed, the Mesillas Yesharim (chapter 25) teaches that true yiras shamayim can only be obtained "berov hahasmada baTorah u'deracheha b'li hefsek - through unwavering commitment to the study of Torah and its ways. Only through constant contemplation and emulation of the ways of HaKadosh Baruch Hu can a person truly imprint the seal of Yiras Shamayim upon himself.
Perhaps one could suggest that these three pillars of the world correspond to a further symbolism as well. The Netziv teaches that the Aron and the Menorah of the Tabernacle represented the Torah: as the storage site for the tablets received at Har Sinai, the Aron represented the Written Torah, while the illumination and clarity produced by the Menorah represented the Oral Torah (see Berachos 57a and Midrash Rabbah Bereishis 91). As such, these two keilim correspond to the first pillar of the world. The Rashbatz adds that, as the ultimate site for the offering of sacrifices, the mizbeach represents avodah, or the second pillar of the world. Finally, the Ramban (Shemos 25:24) explains that the shulchan represents the infinite support of HaKadosh Baruch Hu for Bnei Yisrael, as He places His beracha upon the loaves of bread so that sustenance will flow to the entire nation. Accordingly, the shulchan may be seen as representative of the third pillar of the world, gemillus chasadim.
Asara B'Teves is a most appropriate time to be mindful of the destruction of the Bais HaMikdash and to internalize the importance of Torah, avoda and gemilus chasodim which the klai Hamikdash represent.