As the candles of Hanukkah are kindled, we remember a story of courage, faith, and divine providence. Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after its desecration and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. It is a celebration of God’s faithfulness and the resilience of His people in the face of oppression.
This year, Hanukkah began Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, and will continue through December 22. Each night, families light the menorah, adding one candle at a time, until the full radiance shines forth—a living reminder that God’s light cannot be extinguished.
For Christians, Hanukkah holds meaning beyond its Jewish roots. Light is a central symbol in our faith as well—Christ Himself declared, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). The festival reminds us that God’s light endures, and that our faith is deeply connected to the faith of Israel. Christianity, like Judaism and Islam, traces its lineage back to Abraham, the father of faith.
Scripture affirms this shared heritage:
“And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Galatians 3:29)
Hanukkah is not only about the rededication of a physical temple long ago—it is also a call to re-dedicate the temple of our own hearts and lives. In a world marked by tragedy, violence, and division, we are invited to cleanse and renew ourselves, to become living temples where God’s Spirit dwells. As Paul reminds us: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16).
To be faithful in this season is to be anchored in hope—not swayed by despair or darkness—and to shine that light into the world. Just as the menorah grows brighter each night, so too are we called to let our lives radiate God’s love, illuminating places of sorrow with courage, compassion, and peace.
Baruch ata Adonai Eloheinu u ha’olam
Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe
Smitten With Goodness 