This year in Sunday School we've been studying the world's religions and the Jewish tradition, as it should be, is being included in these discussions. Personally I've subscribed to www.beliefnet.com, they have a phenomenal section on the Jewish tradition, and I also have a personal interest in the Menorah.

I like the idea that the candles flames of the Menorah are always the same and always different. My life is never the same, none of our lives are, from one moment to the next. We don't don't what today will bring yet hope springs eternal, just as the flame of the Menorah does.

Fire is central to all our lives, and the flame of fire has many symbolic meanings in our lives. For many it symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and for others it symbolizes love. Whatever the flame means to you today may you have a little bit of both love and the Holy Spirit in your life today.

		The answer to the simple question Mai Hanukkah?--What is Hanukkah?--has continued to be like the flickering flame of the menorah. The flame never looks the same from one instant to the next, but at its core it remains unchanged. - Rabbi Michael Strassfeld