One of the things that we do during this festival is enjoy foods that are made with oil, helping us remember the menorah that stood alight in the Temple. These tasty treats are sure to add to the joy of the participants. In Israel, the most common dish is jelly-filled donuts. Donuts are only eaten during this time of year, which leads young Israelis to stand in amazement at the sight of donuts during other seasons of the year when they travel the world.

Is there a danger that we may be running on empty? As we gaze into these lights, let us take this opportunity to evaluate the state of oil lamps. We need to make sure that our wicks are clean and our oil is replenished. A trip to Israel may be just what you need to go through a replenishing at this season. Or a course offered by MJTI may strengthen and refill your oil lamp . . .

At the heart of this journal, we aim to provide Jewish education for Jews of all ages to connect to their Jewishness in everyday life. The festivals in which we Jews live out our particular calling can be a tool to strengthen our identity, and Hanukkah provides a great opportunity. This will only be the beginning, as the oil that we think of during Hanukkah, the oil of the menorah in the Temple that was to remain lit continuously, speaks of the importance of a vibrant continuity of the Jewish people. Not just a Jewish existence around the holidays, but one that shines with clarity throughout the year.

The oil that was to burn in the menorah in the Temple was to be of the highest standard to allow for a clear and bright light. As Jews we are to be Or l’Goyim—a Light to the Nations. During this festival of Hanukkah, we are reminded of this important role. The Jewish people are the Am Segula—the Chosen or Set Apart People—not for ourselves but that we might bring light into the world around us. As Jewish followers of Yeshua, we see the work of our Mashiach, who came as a Jew and will return as a Jew, our model/ mentor for the light that needs to shine to the nations.