On the evening of December 6, Benjamin Netanyahu led the Nation of Israel in beginning the annual celebration of Hanukkah.
“2,200 years ago, a handful of Jewish fighters arose and defeated what was then a global empire. . . .The Maccabees fought, [and restored both religious freedom and political independence to Israel]. This effort, which undoubtedly ensured the future of our people, also serves as a symbol and an example to peoples in general and to the strength of a people – to strength of spirit. They dispelled the darkness." (Benjamin Netanyahu)
John 10:22 speaks of Jesus being in Jerusalem at Hanukkah, or as it is referred to there "the Feast of Dedication." Jesus was, and still is, the light of the world (John 8:12 & 9:5). It is clear from the confrontation that Jesus had in the temple during Hanukkah that He, unlike the Maccabees, was not going to use military force to shine the light, nor was He, like so many today, merely depending on His words. He cast out darkness by the works that He did. That's precisely what Jesus has in mind for those of us who follow Him. ““Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, NASB95)
As we see our Jewish neighbors celebrating a great victory of more than two millennia ago, let's be reminded to shine our light, not by fighting, or merely talking, but by doing good deeds.
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