December 18, 2016
Dear Friend of Zion,
Give a child in Israel a reason for hope this Hanukkah!.
Everyone associates Jesus with Christmas. But what about Hanukkah? Jesus Himself celebrated Hanukkah every year He lived on earth.
Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon's Colonnade. -John 10:22-23
Jesus affirmed His Jewish identity by keeping not only the major feasts like Passover, but by making pilgrimage to Jerusalem for Temple worship at Hanukkah.
What would happen if followers of Christ today kept the spirit of Hanukkah by honoring Jerusalem and the Jewish roots of their faith? Now is your chance to be a part of this giving season.
Hanukkah: A Lesson for Today?
The Feast of Dedication dates back to 168 B.C. and celebrates the rededication of God's Temple by the Maccabees.
A scrappy band of faith-filled zealots took a leap of faith and reclaimed God's holiness in their generation. A great and improbable victory! And the miracle of the oil that burned for seven days longer than it should have was a sign of God smiling on their courage and faithfulness.
Even in 2016, Hanukkah brings a smile to the faces of God's children. Who can help but love that story?
But in Israel today, there are children who are not smiling this December. Families are wondering if they'll be able to put food on the table---any food---let alone special holiday treats we all like to enjoy.
Help make Hanukkah a happy one not a hungry one.
We're in Israel right now, caring for everyone from orphaned youth to Holocaust survivors. We would be truly inspired to be able to give these precious ones a gift from their Christian brothers and sisters this holiday season. Are you a Believer who loves and honors God's chosen people? Then please give. Give what you can. As generously as you can.
Please make sure you are the reason a hungry Jewish child is smiling this Hanukkah.
Are your lights shining?
One final thought. December is the darkest season of year. Yet it's the time when our attention is drawn to light...
Lighted menorahs on the dinner table;
Christmas lights lining every tree and street;
advent candles being lit in churches across America and around the world.
Shine the light on those who need it most and make this holiday season even brighter!
 |
Shalom and warmest blessings to you and your family from Israel,
Cheryl Bier,
Bnai Zion's Executive Vice President |
P.S. In light of the recent fires in Haifa and the burning down of our Pharmacy at the Bnai Zion Medical Center, your support is even more appreciated as we head into the holidays.
