The Festival of The Brave & The Free

Friday, February 28, 2025

The Feast of Chanukah is a Hebrew holy day based on the courage of God's people. In the second century B.C., Antiochus Epiphanes, the ruler of the Greek-Syrian Empire, defiled God's Temple in Jerusalem by erecting a statue of Zeus. He then commanded all of Israel to worship it. Anyone caught observing God's law was put to death. Many abandoned their faith, and it looked as if the Jewish faith would be completely extinguished. But then one man and his sons, the Maccabees, took a stand and led a revolt against the entire might of the Syrian Empire. Outnumbered, outmanned, and out armed, they miraculously won their freedom. The Temple was restored, its lamp relit, and Israel was free to worship God. Not long afterwards, Messiah - the Light of the World - was born in Bethlehem. Chanukah is called the Festival of Freedom. But without courage, there can be no freedom. God has called His children to have courage! That means you! Faith brings courage, and courage brings freedom. Walk in faith and courage and you will live a life of freedom.

From Message #1220 - The Chanukizers