Shining Light into the Darkness

It was only right that God’s dwelling place be pure and that the holy light burned as He intended it to shine there. Setting the Temple back in order, cleansing it and restoring the Temple light was for God’s glory.

The menorah that glowed all night was reminiscent of God’s presence in the pillar of fire each night during the Israelite’s years of wandering in the wilderness. He never left them, and His light shone for all the neighboring peoples to see as well.

Jesus told us that we are to be His lights in this dark world. When we walk by His Spirit, He shines His light into all the world. In this, we glorify the Lord. We draw others’ attention to Him so they might also see and believe in His Messiah.

At Chanukah, we remember that as God lights our lives, we are to be diligent to see that He shines through us for all the world to see and glorify Him.

On this second night of Chanukah, we consider our roles as lights in the world.

Messianic Jewish Chanukah Blessings

Place two candles in the chanukiah tonight, setting them in the holders from right to left. As you light the Shamash, or Servant Candle, recite the Messianic Jewish Chanukah blessings:

Blessed are You, LORD, our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with Your commandments and has given us Yeshua the Messiah, the Light of the World.

Blessed are You, LORD, our God, King of the universe, who has performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this time.

Candle Lighting

Using the Shamash, light the Chanukah candles in the opposite direction from which you placed them in the holders. Light them from left to right. Return the Shamash to its place. Let the candles go out on their own, and they should burn for at least half an hour.

Prayer

Lord, we praise You for Your light in our lives. We ask that You help us to live in such a way that shines forth Your amazing light, Your goodness and truth, Your grace and compassion. Help us to daily walk by Your Spirit so that Your presence will be evident to all we meet. And may You be glorified.