Kindle a Fire

Isaiah 2:1-5

Today is the second day of Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights. Tonight, many people will light the second candle as they celebrate.

The menorah (pictured above) has nine candles - one for each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, and a special candle, raised above the others, called the "shammash" candle.

The shammash candle has one and only one role - it is used to light the other candles. Its sole purpose is to take the fire from one and spread it to the rest.

In the Isaiah reading for today, which you can read by clicking on the words "Isaiah 2:1-5" above, we hear that the people of Israel were called to function in much the same way. They were to be a light for revelation to the Gentiles - blessed to be a blessing to all nations - used to fill the earth with God's teachings. In essence, from the promise God made to Abraham, through the promise God made to Moses, to the promise God makes to us in Christ and in the waters of baptism, God is busy setting the world ablaze through his chosen people.

Today, may you know that you've been chosen to be a shammash - your purpose is to take the Light that's been given to you, and set the world ablaze with the power of Christ's love.

Prayer:
God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and every nation, kindle in us the fire of your love that we might be prepared to set the world ablaze with your love. Amen.