Even as the oil diminished
yet held through those uncertain days
the oil lamps burning
cast long shadows
that danced and flickered
on the stones
restoring what the ruined temple
needed more than rebuilt walls
there at the center
gentle light
and steady flame
to touch the soul
speaking God's presence
human yearning
human hopes and human loves

So we latecomers
light the candles
adding one more
every night
enact the human miracle
seeking more light
ever more light

As I watch the candles gutter
there's a fading orange glow
reflected in the window and
evoking fires of long ago
fires that like the temple lamps
spoke sacred life to human hearts
light to guide us, guard us,
warm our hearts
and bless our days