This December many will celebrate Hanukah as well as Christmas.
Hanukkah means "rededication"
This holiday recalls the Jewish victory over the Greeks more than 2,000 years ago, as summed up in the history video below.
reference: https://youtu.be/-6FBX53ZblU
A miracle happened during the rededication of the temple, where just a day's supply of oil allowed the menorah to remain lit for eight days. Hence, the 8 days and candles.
More information: What Is Hanukkah? – A Season of Miracles and Light
King Solomon offered prayer at this dedication, known as The Solomon's Prayer.
And a portion of this prayer is presented in song below.
reference: https://youtu.be/2FK1-_cCg-E
Prayer reference: I Kings 8:56-60
Though there is no mention of Hanukkah in the Old Testament, it's mentioned in the New Testament, specifically the Gospel of John.
And Jesus celebrated Hannukah known as the Festival of Dedication in the winter.
Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem.
It was winter,
and Jesus was in the temple courts
walking in Solomon’s Colonnade.
The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying,
“How long will you keep us in suspense?
If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”
John 10:22-23 (NIV)
And Jesus had given the people an answer during those spiritually dark days, such as the story of Hanukkah celebrates where light triumphed over darkness.
“I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (NIV)
As we enter the winter of long nights, holidays such as Hanukkah and Christmas anticipate the coming of the Light--spiritual as well as physical.
Blessings and peace this December
and into the New Year
as the days grow longer.
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