It’s the season when we all wish each other Joyous Christmas, Blessed Hanukkah, Happy Holidays! During this beautiful time, our spirits are warmed by treasured Christmas memories from days of yore, by the fun of giving gifts and gratitude for gifts received, visiting family and friends, and the sharing of cards, concerts, choirs, carols, cookies, meals and other cherished favorites. The blessings of December enrich our lives annually.
Our Judeo-Christian heritage provides the foundation for December blessings. Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish religious festival commemorating recovery of Jerusalem through a successful revolt led by the Maccabees, the heroes of Hanukkah, and subsequent rededication of the Second Temple during the turbulent times following the death of Alexander the Great. In the aftermath of the revolt, the desecrated temple had only enough oil for one ritual nightly lighting of the menorah. However, by a miracle from God, that small amount of oil was able to last for eight days, giving Jewish worshippers enough time to procure more.
Advent, meaning “coming” is four weeks of study and reflection Christians use to prepare for Christmas eve and Christmas day celebrations of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. Each week a new candle is lit recognizing Hope, Peace, Love and Joy. Luke Chapter 2:10-11 says, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”
