Hanukkah Joy: A Christ-Centered Family Tradition of Light, Love, and Gathering

The Art of Gathering Series

I have such fond memories of Hanukkah as a child – sitting around our family dining table nibbling on oil-cooked potato pancakes (latkes), lighting the 9-branched menorah and opening presents were real highlights.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the miracle of the lamp oil that burned for eight days in the Jewish temple. According to legend, after the temple was desecrated, there was only enough oil for one night, yet miraculously, it lasted for eight nights. This ritual not only symbolizes the historical event but also serves as a beacon of light during darkness, fostering unity and family bonds.

As we approach the holiday season, it’s a time to remember the importance of THE light in our lives. Jesus invites us to embrace the season and remember He is the light of the World. Our rejoicing comes when we light the Hanukkah 9-branched candle menorah by using the shamash candle, the servant candle. Instead of using a match for each candle, only the shamash is lit first when it’s standing up. Then, this special candle helps light all the other candles. Each day, a new set of candles is lit. I am reminded of Jesus when this special candle provides light to the rest of the Hanukkah menorah. The Shamash is known as the servant candle with good reason.

One of the central aspects of Hanukkah is the emphasis on family togetherness. The act of gathering around the table to light the menorah, share traditional foods, and exchange gifts fosters a sense of community and belonging. The warmth and joy that permeates these celebrations create lasting memories and strengthen familial ties, reminding us of the importance of love, acceptance, and gratitude.

Links to Jesus

There is a connection between Hanukkah and Jesus that can be found in the Gospel of John, specifically in chapter 10. In this chapter, Jesus is found at the Temple during the Feast of Dedication, which is another name for Hanukkah. While the Gospel does not provide a detailed account of Jesus celebrating Hanukkah, the mere mention of him being present during this festival implies a connection between the two.

At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the colonnade of Solomon.
John 10:22

This convergence of celebrations serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of religious traditions and the shared values of hope, light, and dedication to a higher purpose. As families come together to celebrate Hanukkah, they can reflect on the common threads that bind their faith to the broader tapestry of religious history.

Hanukkah, with its focus on family, light, and dedication, provides a meaningful opportunity for reflection and celebration. As families gather around the table during this festive season, the connection to Jesus in the Gospel of John adds another layer of significance to the holiday. In embracing the shared values of hope and dedication, we can appreciate the beauty of diverse traditions and find common ground that transcends religious boundaries. Hanukkah becomes not only a time to honor a historical miracle but also a celebration of unity, love, and the enduring light that binds us all together.

Make sure to join Rachel on I G tonight to light the menorah at 5 PM Eastern and enjoy the beginning of the Festival of Lights together.

With grace and light,

Rachel is the founder and CEO of Links to the Messiah, (Chief Enthusiasm Officer). She was raised in a Messianic Jewish home celebrating both Jewish and Christian holidays. She is a certified and experienced educator with a heart for teaching families. Some have called her the Child Whisperer for her ability to capture the attention of young children
You can find connect with her at Links to Messiah
Make sure to connect with her on IG.

A Simple Charcuterie Guide

What a perfect time to start honing your charcuterie skills with the holidays here! I have just the right thing to help you feel ready and confident while you gather. I created this simple and beautiful charcuterie guide for you. In my opinion it’s cute enough to display and then it would always be available for you! Plus, I am always honored to offer you practical content for purposeful and life giving time around the table. Check it out by clicking on the graphic below!