Our Shammash Candle!

Last night began Chanukah. It is the Jewish holiday that commemorates how it was in 164 BC, at the liberation and rededication of the Temple, one night’s worth of oil kept the Temple menorah lighted for eight days—i.e., until new oil for the Temple could be made. Thus for eight days, Jews around the world light their Chanukah menorahs. Each night they light one more candle until all eight candles are lit on the final night. Last night Kim and I lit our menorah.  

For those who don’t know, there is, one candle on the menorah that is lit every night. That is the shammash or helper candle. That candle is lit by a match or other kind of lighter and is then used to light the rest. The shammash candle stands higher than all of the others or a bit separated; it is always distinct from the rest of the candles. Again, it is lit every night, burning with whatever other candles have been lit. 

For me as a follower of Jesus who is also Jewish (on my mother’s side!), I can’t help but see a wonderful parallel between the shammash candle and Jesus himself. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” (John  9:5) But he also said, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) The Apostle John put it this way, “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” (John 1:9 – NIV)  In other words, we could say Jesus is our shammash candle, the One from whom we receive our light. Without him we remain dark and unlit. Through him our lives are enabled to shine brightly. 

During this “Season of Light,” for both Chanukah and Christmas are filled with light, we have great reason to celebrate. God has not left us alone in our darkness; God has not left our lives unlit. A miracle of light has taken place. For God has sent to us true and pure light in the form of his Son. And through him he gives us the capacity to shine as never before, that our light might shine through the good deeds of our lives and God would be glorified. (Matthew 5:16) 

So as we light menorahs and/or light our Christmas trees, Advent candles, etc., let’s be thankful for the One who came as our Shammash, Jesus—the One from whom we receive eternal and everlasting light. And, may our lives shine brightly with the light he has given to us. 

Have a great day! And, Happy Chanukah to all my Jewish friends out there! 

- Pastor Tim Harris