I love Hanukkah! My experience of being in Israel during Hanukkah several years ago created a deep appreciation for the miracles of God on behalf of His people, but also the spirit of life that springs forth from our Jewish friends. I’ve never seen an entire nation celebrate with such zeal!

Yet, tomorrow’s sundown will bring an end to Hanukkah.

We spent a week focusing on it and I pray you have been blessed. It is still a much-misunderstood celebration, as it is often thought of as the Jewish Christmas. Yes, there is gift-giving, and it does tend to fall around Christmastime most years, but the two are totally unrelated in context. Yet, they are totally related in their ability to reveal Jesus! For Christians, we celebrate Christmas in recognition of Jesus’ birth (though He likely was not born on December 25!). Meanwhile, Jews remember God’s provision during Hanukkah, yet most miss the important part: Jesus is the menorah…the Light of the world!

This is a tender time in Israel. They are deeply scarred by the attacks of October 7 and it will take generations to heal. Yet, despite their pain, we see them rising from the ashes, choosing to return to life, choosing to celebrate Hanukkah despite the dark cloud that remains. Light shines brightest in darkness, so continue pray they see the Light!

Meanwhile, before Hanukkah fades into history this year, take 3 minutes to discover the true heart of Hanukkah:

Happy Hanukkah!