Today begins the eight-day celebration of Hanukkah. Earlier in the day I thought of how nice it would be to have a menorah and to start the tradition of lighting a candle on each day of Hanukkah. The weather got bad and I ended up staying home...but I did make a mental note to pick up a Menorah while the sales are on next week and to prepare for next year's celebration!

Any Christian should be ever aware of the great love that God had for His chosen people, the nation of Israel. Hanukkah celebrates a time when the Jewish nation survived persecution and destruction of the temple and all things associated with the worship of our God.

I am drawn to many of the Jewish celebrations and festivals. I don't really 'practice' these events and traditions (yet!) but I certainly have a great respect and love for the culture and heritage of my brothers, the Jews. Knowing that my Lord, Jesus, having been raised a Jew, also practiced the many traditions and practices of this faith, really"brings home" (to my heart) or personalizes the rich history and significant practices of this chosen nation. I cherish and embrace this culture and religious heritage and desire to know more!

To any of my Jewish brothers or sisters....Happy Hanukkah!