Hanukkah - A Time of Dedication

Hanukkah - A Time of Dedication

Introduction to Hanukkah and the Founded In Truth Fellowship

Welcome to Founded In Truth, a fellowship that considers itself more than just a community; it's a family founded on truth and love, dedicated to the worship of God. This particular teaching focuses on Hanukkah, also known as the Feast of Dedication or the Festival of Lights, a significant time of the year. The speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the community and shares his experience of being part of the fellowship while attending the United States Army Drill Sergeant Academy. He notes the fitting cool and dim weather outside, drawing a parallel to the atmosphere when Yeshua (Jesus) was at the temple during the Feast of Dedication in winter.

Hanukkah is introduced as a time of miracles, and the speaker shares two personal stories illustrating God's intervention in his life, particularly surrounding his unexpected opportunity to teach on this day and the miraculous acquisition of a Hanukkiah. These stories serve to emphasize the theme of divine provision and the special nature of Hanukkah.

The Significance of Hanukkah: Dedication and Light

The teaching delves into the question of what Hanukkah means, especially for those new to understanding God's feast days. While Hanukkah is not explicitly mentioned in the Torah, the speaker and his wife decided years ago that it was a meaningful celebration to observe. He clarifies that the traditions associated with Hanukkah, such as lighting the Hanukkiah, eating latkes and donuts, should not overshadow the core meaning of dedication. Just as Passover Seders and Shavuot cheesecake are traditions that enhance those celebrations without being commanded in the original observances, so too can Hanukkah traditions be valuable. These traditions can instill a sense of pride and help us remember the significance of the events being commemorated.

Hanukkah is powerfully described as the Veterans Day of Israel, a time to honor those who fought to preserve the nation and its identity against those who sought its annihilation. The Maccabees, through their struggle, ensured that there was an Israel for Yeshua to step into centuries later, including the Temple Mount. Refusing to honor Hanukkah, therefore, is seen as allowing the historical adversaries of Israel to have a continued victory by erasing the memory of God's intervention.

The speaker argues that the spirit of Hanukkah, a fight against cultural assimilation and for the preservation of God's people, has parallels throughout history, starting with the enslavement in Egypt. Just as tax collectors and forced labor were tools of oppression in Egypt, similar tactics were used during the time of the Maccabees to undermine Jewish identity. In both instances, leaders rose up to resist this oppression: Moses in Egypt and Mattityahu during the Maccabean revolt.

Hanukkah as a Metaphor and its Connection to Yeshua

Hanukkah is presented as a metaphor for believers today, not only personally but also as used by Yeshua himself. During the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in John 10, Yeshua spoke about eternal life to those who have faith in him. This occurred at a time when the people were celebrating the victory and dedication of their ancestors. The speaker highlights the contrast between Yeshua's message of inclusion and eternal life and the desire of some to reject him, mirroring the historical struggle against cultural exclusion. The miracles performed by Yeshua during this season of miracles further emphasize his divine nature.

Drawing on the concept that believers are the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16-17), the speaker explains that Hanukkah serves as a reminder that even without a physical temple, believers can be the light in the world. Just as the Maccabees fought to rededicate the physical temple, believers are called to dedicate their lives as living sacrifices (Romans 12) in service to God and others. This dedication should be evident in our lives, not just in outward declarations.

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Practical Application: Dedicating Our Resources

The teaching encourages a deeper reflection on how we can dedicate ourselves more fully to God, especially during this time of Hanukkah. The speaker focuses on three key resources: time, space (community), and money.

• Time: Our time is a finite and precious resource. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about misusing the Sabbath for leisure rather than dedicated time with God. He emphasizes the importance of giving God the "first fruits" of our day, such as waking up early to pray, as an indication of our dedication. Dedicating time also involves serving our community and those in need.
• Space (Community): Our involvement in a community of believers is vital. The historical context of synagogues arising during the Babylonian exile highlights the importance of having a place to worship and come together. The speaker strongly discourages isolating oneself from fellowship, emphasizing that God calls us to holy convocations. He shares his own commitment to traveling to fellowship with like-minded believers, underscoring the significance of communal worship in maintaining our identity. The sacrifices of those who provide the space for congregations to meet are also acknowledged.
• Money: Our financial resources are another area for dedication. The speaker addresses the common reluctance to tithe in this movement, drawing parallels to similar arguments made in traditional churches regarding Old Testament laws. He argues that giving to God's community is essential for its sustenance and reflects our belief in the work being done. Just as Passover and Sukkot are celebrated in ways that differ from their original Temple practices, giving to support the local congregation is a practical application of dedication.

A Call to Rededication

The speaker concludes by urging the congregation not to become complacent and take for granted the victories God has given us through Yeshua, just as the Israelites of Yeshua's time seemed to have forgotten the sacrifices of the Maccabees. He notes that this time of year can be difficult for many, with increased depression and suicides, making the theme of light and rededication particularly relevant. He invites those who feel their dedication to God has waned to come forward for prayer and even to make public declarations of rededication as a form of accountability within the community. This public commitment echoes the vows made in the times of the Temple. The teaching ends with a prayer for renewed dedication and a blessing.

Application for Everyday Life

• Prioritize Time with God: Dedicate the first part of your day to prayer and studying God's Word.
• Engage in Community: Actively seek out and participate in fellowship with other believers.
• Serve Others Selflessly: Look for opportunities to serve those in need within your community.
• Dedicate Financial Resources: Support your local faith community financially.
• Remember God's Victories: Reflect on the victories God has brought in your own life.
• Be a Light in the World: Live a life that reflects God's character.
• Embrace Meaningful Traditions: Participate in traditions that help you remember and honor important events.
• Seek Accountability: Make your commitments known to trusted members of your community.

References

Bible Verses

• John 10
• 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
• Romans 12

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