The power of light
As we gradually wrap up this holiday season and soon return to our more usual rhythms and routines, I’ve been recalling memories of various celebrations and time with loved ones over the years. I’ve taken a trip down memory lane as I look at the variety of ornaments on our tree or set out the nativity scene that’s been handed down through generations.
But some of my most vivid memories of the holidays have little to do with Christmas at all. Most years, my immediate family would celebrate with extended relatives, some of whom are Jewish. On several occasions, Christmas would overlap with the festival of Hanukkah. So, among the Christmas cookies on the kitchen counter, my aunt would set out the menorah, carefully light each candle, and teach us the sacred words of prayers spoken.
I remember, as a child, the joy of counting the candles and lighting them each evening, the light growing more and more as the days went on. Outdoor Christmas displays or lights on trees typically have just two settings—on or off. Or… there’s the somewhat obnoxious blinking lights, too, I suppose. But the Jewish tradition of lighting one more candle each night strikes me as particularly beautiful and significant.
From the first night to the eighth, the light continues to grow. By the time you reach the fifth night, more candles are lit than unlit, which signifies the growing power of light over darkness. Even over the course of just eight nights, the shift from dark to light is undeniable. It’s no coincidence that it occurs in a season when we all might need this reminder the most. Even when the days are so short, and light seems hard to come by—the light will continue to grow. Or, in the words of our Christian faith—“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Since the winter solstice a few weeks ago, we’ve added about a minute or so of daylight each day. Honestly, it’s hardly even noticeable—yet. We’ve had a stretch of gray, cold days that can make a soul a bit weary, especially after the brilliance of holiday lights fade away. But those 60 seconds of daily light add up to hours over time. Before we know it, the light and warmth have once again overpowered the darkness of winter. It’s slower and more delayed than these eight mid-winter days, but a similar experience nonetheless.
On this final day of Hanukkah, we might take a few cues from our Jewish sisters and brothers. They remind us once again of the power of light. What has the appearance of darkness will not stay that way. God’s light shines through sacred candles and through the growing daylight. When the world or our very lives seem a bit dark, we cling to our faith that tells us it will not stay that way. As we begin this new year, may you look for signs of light. Watch carefully and patiently as the brightness grows.
Scott Brown
that’s amazing, thanks for sharing
Anne Budde
Thank you for this perspective!
Audrey Keeney
Beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Kathy Kolar
Love the narrative Katy, takes me back to sweet childhood memories. Beautiful message 😌
Dana Wedeking
Beautifully written with a powerful reminder. Thank you!
Brenda Moore
I love that story.