The Servant

This week is Hanukkah, remembering God’s victory over the Greek antichrist who forbid the Jews to worship the true God. For over six years, they hid in mountains and caves to avoid slaughter by this madman who considered himself ‘God.’ A family of Jewish priests gathered a small army and fought back, and God gave them amazing victories. When the time came to rededicate the temple for worship, the historical account says there was only one jar of oil with which to light the Menorah. Miraculously, it lasted eight days, until more could arrive.

Today, the Hanukkah menorah is made with nine candles, the one in the middle being called ‘The Servant’ candle, used to light one candle per day until all shine together. Hanukkah celebrates the promise that the true God, the Light of the world, will overcome all evil.

Jesus attended this Feast when a hostile mob surrounded Him, saying, “How long do you make us doubt? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” Jesus said, “I told you, and you refused to believe, but the miracles I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me… My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me, and I give to them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall anyone pluck them from My hand… I and My Father are One” (John 10:22-30).

Jesus came to earth as the True Light. He is God’s Son and yet God’s Servant, bringing the light of salvation into the world. Those receiving Christ as Savior have this victorious promise… “You will lighten my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness” (Psalm 18:28). Then He reminds us that He doesn’t light up our lives to hide us, but to shine His light and His love until He returns (Matthew 5:15). Shine on!

(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)