In our final episode of 2024, we reflect on the historical, biblical, and prophetic significance of Hanukkah - the Festival of Lights.

Together, we explore the story of the Maccabean Revolt, the rededication of the temple, and how God’s faithfulness preserved the Jewish people so the Messiah could come. We also uncover the deeper meaning of Hanukkah, connecting the light of the menorah to Yeshua, the Light of the World.

This season invites us all to rededicate our lives to God and embrace His faithfulness as we step into a new year.

Key Takeaways:

• God’s Faithfulness in History: Hanukkah reminds us of the Maccabees’ victory over Antiochus IV Epiphanes and God’s preservation of His covenant people.
• The Temple’s Rededication: After its desecration, the Jewish people restored the temple, marking it with an eight-day celebration that still shines brightly today.
• A Greater Miracle: Hanukkah represents more than the oil lasting eight days—it’s about God protecting His people so the Messiah’s arrival could be fulfilled.
• The Messiah and Hanukkah: Jesus celebrated Hanukkah, as recorded in John 10, pointing to Himself as the ultimate Light and fulfillment of God’s promises.
• A Season of Renewal: Just as the temple was rededicated, we are called to rededicate ourselves to God, becoming lights in a world that desperately needs His hope.

Chapter Markers: 0:00 – Wrapping up 2024: Hanukkah and the Messiah. 5:10 – Exploring the Maccabean Revolt and God’s deliverance. 15:30 – The rededication of the temple and the Festival of Lights. 23:00 – Jesus and Hanukkah: Understanding John 10. 30:15 – Rededicating our lives to God in this season. 38:50 – Gratitude and hope as we look ahead to 2025.

As we celebrate Hanukkah and Christmas together, let’s pause to reflect on God’s unchanging faithfulness and His call for us to be lights in this world. Let’s embrace this season as a time to rededicate ourselves to Him, just as the temple was rededicated so many years ago. Join us at the https://thejewishroad.com/hanukkah for resources to bring Hanukkah into your home and connect with the Jewish roots of your faith. Together, we can shine His light and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Sha'alu Shalom Yerushalayim!

In this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, we dive into the book of Ezekiel to explore a recurring and profound theme: God's desire to be known.

From the judgment and restoration of Israel to the millennial kingdom, the presence and glory of God are woven throughout Ezekiel’s prophecies.

We unpack how God’s glory, which once departed from the temple, will one day return in fullness, fulfilling His promises to Israel and the nations.

As the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, this episode offers a timely reflection on God's sovereignty, His promise of restoration, and the hope of His glorious return.

• God's Desire to Be Known: Ezekiel emphasizes God's longing for His people, Israel, and the nations to know Him, with the phrase "then they will know that I am the Lord" appearing 77 times between chapters 5 and 39.
• The Glory of God Departs and Returns: Ezekiel recounts the gradual departure of God's glory from the temple, a result of Israel's sin, but also prophesies its ultimate return during the millennial kingdom.
• The Presence of God in Jesus: The incarnation marks the return of God’s glory in human form - God taking on flesh to dwell among us.
• Millennial Temple and Kingdom: Ezekiel’s vision of the millennial temple highlights a new era where God's presence will dwell in a transformed Jerusalem, fulfilling His promises to Israel and the nations.
• A God Who Wants to Be Known: From the Exodus to the incarnation, God's actions reveal His deep desire for humanity to recognize Him and live in His presence.

0:00 – Introduction: Exploring God’s presence in Ezekiel. 2:15 – The phrase "then they will know that I am the Lord" and its significance. 10:32 – God's glory departs from the temple in Ezekiel’s vision. 16:45 – The incarnation: The glory of God returns in Jesus. 23:10 – Ezekiel’s vision of the millennial temple and the return of God’s glory. 30:20 – Reflections on God's presence during the Christmas and Hanukkah season. 35:00 – Final thoughts: Worshiping a God who desires to be known.

As we celebrate this season, take a moment to reflect on God’s presence in your life. Dive into Ezekiel chapters 40-48 and consider His promises of restoration and glory. Don’t let the busyness of the holidays distract you - pause and recognize the God who longs to be known. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, and let’s continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Shalom!

The Assad regime in Syria has fallen after decades of brutal rule, leaving the region and the world watching closely. What does this mean for Israel, for the Middle East, and for God’s timeline? In this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, we explore the implications of this seismic shift. From Iran’s crumbling “Shiite corridor” to Israel’s strategic moves in the Golan Heights, we unpack the geopolitical and spiritual consequences of this historic event.

But this isn’t just about politics - it’s about the unfolding of biblical prophecy. As the Middle East shifts, what role do Christians play in standing with Israel? And how can we be watchful, prayerful, and active in these critical times? Join us as we dig deep into what this moment means for the nations and for God's ultimate plan.

• The fall of the Assad regime marks a dramatic shift in Middle Eastern dynamics, creating both opportunities and dangers.
• Iran's influence is diminishing as its proxies like Hezbollah face setbacks, but new threats could emerge in Syria’s power vacuum.
• Biblical prophecy, such as Isaiah 17 and Zechariah 12, points to the significance of these events in God’s timeline.
• Christians have a biblical mandate to stand with Israel as God’s chosen people and play an active role as watchmen in these times.

• 0:00 – Introduction: The fall of the Assad regime in Syria.
• 5:12 – Historical context: Assad's brutal reign and its collapse.
• 12:45 – Israel’s response: Strategic moves in the Golan Heights.
• 18:20 – Iran’s unraveling: Impact on Hezbollah and the “Shiite corridor.”
• 25:30 – Biblical lens: Prophecies from Isaiah and Zechariah.
• 33:50 – The role of Christians: Standing with Israel and engaging in prayer and action.
• 40:15 – Final thoughts: Watchfulness, boldness, and trusting in God’s plan.

This is a critical moment for Israel and the nations. Let’s stay watchful, prayerful, and bold in support of God’s people. As always, we encourage you to stand as a light, a voice, and a blessing. For more insights and updates, subscribe to The Jewish Road Podcast and join us in praying for the peace of Jerusalem. Shalom Yerushalayim.