Hi friends! As of sundown last night, Hanukkah has commenced! The 8-day celebration also known as the Feast of Lights or the Feast of Dedication is not one of the seven major feasts implemented by the Lord in Leviticus 23. However, it was the result of evil intent by Antiochus to destroy the Jewish people. As is so common to history, the survival of the Jews was miraculous, and a celebration ensued. Even Jesus and His family celebrated. (See John 10:22)

It was my joy to be in Israel at the start of Hanukkah a few years ago and it was pure joy! For 8 days, families gather, children play the dreidel game, there was joyous singing, dancing, and eating jelly donuts (sufganiyot), the Old City walls were lit up with festive laser lights, and the hanukkiah was lit (one candle per night). It was definitely an experience I will never forget!

Discover more about Hanukkah in the short video below, then check back in the days ahead. We’ll talk more about its history, its prophetic future, and its importance to us as Christians.