This year the festival of Hanukkah and Christmas will occur within two weeks of one another. The story of Hanukkah is told in the Book of Maccabees where we learn that a small band of fighters (fighting for their religious freedom) defeat the Syrian Greeks, reconsecrate the Jerusalem Temple and celebrate an eight-day festival.
Although not in the Book of Maccabees, the ancient rabbis talk about a cruse of oil that was discovered in the Temple that when lit miraculously burned for eight days.
Both Hanukkah and Christmas declare in the darkness and bleakness of winter that the lights that celebrate Hanukkah and Christmas can help bring light to ourselves and to our communities.
Proverbs 20:27 reminds us that “God’s candle is the human soul.” We are carrying God’s light within us, and it is our responsibility to tend that light and share it with those in need.
At this time of year, we are called upon to live up to our human potential and transform a world that is surrounded by darkness and despair to one made better by the light.
When people of different faiths celebrate their similarities rather than arguing about differences they can bring light where there has been only darkness.
I encourage you to celebrate the light you already know you already have, whatever it is that you think shines most when you are at your best.
I hope too that you will integrate a light you see in someone else, a quality that shines from someone you love or admire. Finally, ask yourself: Who might you invite that is in need of companionship and light?
Our future rests upon each and every one of us bringing more light to people in need.
Each time you stand up against injustice, comfort the sick or bereaved or clothe the naked, you are transforming dark places of despair by bringing the flame of your candle whose pilot light rests in your soul.
I conclude with the words of Peter Yarrow who ends his song “Light one candle” with this:
“Don’t let the light go out; it’s lasted for so many years,
Don’t let the light go out; let it shine through our love and our tears.”
Do not ever let the light go out. I wish you a bright and festive celebration and a happy new year. May your light lead us all to paths of peace.
ED. NOTE: Rabbi Isaacs is interim rabbi at Beth Judah Temple, Wildwood. He invites questions emailed to his website www.rabbiron.com.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
