Light in the Darkness
A Meditation by Rev. Cameron Trimble
“Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty.” (Zechariah 4:6)
• • •
As the second candle of Hanukkah is lit in Jewish homes across the world today, they will pause to reflect on a story that has been told for over 2,000 years—a story of courage, resilience, and hope. It’s a story that reminds us, no matter our faith, that light can shine even in the darkest of times.
The story of Hanukkah begins during a time of oppression. The Jewish people lived under the rule of the Seleucid Empire, and their sacred temple in Jerusalem had been desecrated. Their freedom to worship had been stripped away. But a small group of faithful rebels, known as the Maccabees, refused to give up. Against overwhelming odds, they reclaimed the temple and set about rededicating it to God.
When it came time to relight the menorah—the eternal flame symbolizing God’s presence—they found only enough oil for one day. But they lit it anyway, trusting that God would provide. And the miracle? The oil burned for eight days, long enough to prepare more.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks once wrote, “Faith is the ability to see the miraculous in the everyday.” That’s the heart of Hanukkah—faith in what we cannot yet see, courage to act even when we feel unprepared, and hope that sustains us when the future seems uncertain.
We don’t need to face monumental battles to carry this message forward. Hanukkah reminds us that light can begin small—a single flame, a single act of courage—and grow brighter as we keep showing up. It invites us to step out in faith, to do what we can with what we have, and to trust that it will be enough.
So as we light candles this week—whether for Hanukkah, Christmas, or simply to chase away the winter darkness—let’s ask ourselves: Where are we being called to bring light? How can we keep hope alive, not just for ourselves but for others? The miracle of Hanukkah wasn’t just about oil. It was about ordinary people believing in something bigger than themselves—and watching that faith turn into something extraordinary.
We are in this together,
Cameron
Reflection Questions
Where in your life do you need to act in faith, even if you don’t feel ready?
How can you be a source of light and encouragement to someone who’s struggling?
What “miracles” have you witnessed—times when faith or hope carried you farther than you thought possible?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for Hanukkah’s Light
God of Light,
You remind us that even the smallest flame can push back the darkness.
Teach us to be bearers of Your light—
To act with courage,
To trust in Your provision,
And to keep hope alive, even when the path feels uncertain.
May our lives be a reflection of Your presence,
And may we bring warmth, kindness, and faith
To a world that longs for light.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Sharing Light
Spend some time reflecting on where you can bring light into the world.
Start by identifying one area in your life that feels heavy or uncertain. Maybe it’s a situation you’ve been avoiding or a challenge you’re unsure how to face. Take one small step forward this week—an act of faith that says, I trust there will be enough.
Then, look outward. Who in your life could use a little extra light right now? Maybe it’s a friend who’s struggling, a coworker who’s feeling overwhelmed, or even a stranger in need of kindness. Reach out with a simple gesture—a phone call, a meal, or just a listening ear—and trust that even small acts can make a big impact.
Finally, let the candles remind you of what’s possible. As you light them, let them symbolize hope, resilience, and the faith that keeps us moving forward, one flame at a time. Hanukkah teaches us that miracles often begin with what we already have—if we’re willing to take the first step.
Upcoming Events That Might Be of Interest…
January 9, 2025, 12pm ET - What Does the TikTok Ban Mean for Churches, Faith Leaders, and Digital Ministry? Register here.
January 12, 2025, 3-4:30pm ET - Join me for a FREE conversation on “Progressive Islam – Universal Values vs. the Politics of Human Rights – What’s the Difference Between a Progressive Muslim and Other Muslims?” with Ani Zonneveld. Register here.
February 6, 7-8pm ET - Join my conversation “Mindful Healing: Tools For Inner Balance and Wellbeing” with Rev. Dr. Isa Gucciardi. Register here.
February 11, 2025 - Diana Butler Bass and I will be geeking out together in an online event about the state of the world (post-inauguration). We are still putting the details together. For now, mark your calendars.
July 20-25, 2025 - The Art of Wilding: A 5-Day Expedition in Wyoming for Women Leaders. Click here to learn more.
August 11, 2025, 2pm ET - Dr. Andrew Root and I will be hosting a 6 part series on Spirituality in the Secular Age based on his research. The dates are August 11, 18, September 8, 15, and October 6, 13. Mark your calendars! More on this soon.
October 15-18, 2025 - Converging 2025: Sing Truth Conference (all musicians invited!) at Northwest Christian Church in Columbus, OH. Mark your calendars for now. More info is coming.
Recently, I drafted a Strategic Framework for Congregations as we move into the coming years of increased authoritarianism around the world. If interested, you can download it here.