The once in a lifetime union of Hanukkah and Thanksgiving gives us time to reflect on the similarities of these holidays. Where holidays can diminish when joined (think birthday on Christmas) they can also become more meaningful when the symbolism is connected. The Jewish tradition and Christian tradition this week actually are born out of similar struggles.
These are holidays about God’s provision and a grateful response - from the Jews, who celebrate the miracle of the lighting oil and from the Puritans who blessed God for their crop which would get them through the next winter. These two events share a common backdrop to their stories – a struggle for religious freedom.
The Jews were oppressed by the Romans and forced to worship false gods. The soldiers desecrated the holy Temple and then required worship of the emperor in a way that involved idolatry and the blood of pigs. A band of priests rose up and overthrew the Roman occupiers. When they re-cleansed the temple and lit the lamps they found oil enough only for a single night. Miraculously, God kept it going for 7 more days until new oil was available. Hanukkah, the festival of lights, is the celebration of God’s protection and provision as they once again were freely able to worship.
Hundreds of years later we find the Puritans also being oppressed and persecuted for their faith. They fled Europe and started a new life in a new land. After a harsh winter they saw their numbers dwindle due to starvation and disease. The next year, in response to a plentiful harvest, they gathered to give thanks to God for His protection and provision - able to worship freely in their new land.
As we mark these occasions we can connect with our brothers and sisters of ages past, freely and joyfully thanking God for His bountiful provision. But let us also take a moment to remember, and pray for, those around the world today who are bravely facing persecution for their faith. They are our family, too, and God is preparing a banquet for us all.
"I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds." Psalm 9:1
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