Though we Jews are only a small minority of the world's population, we have been assigned the formidable, seemingly impossible, task of enlightening the entire world. But the Sages have given us a hint as to how this can be accomplished. The Sages taught [Shabbos 23a] the kindling [of the Chanukah lights] is the essence of the mitzvah, if [the light] becomes extinguished; we are not obligated [to rekindle it]. This symbolizes to us that we are charged with the responsibility to start the task of enlightening the world; Hashem will see to its successful conclusion.

By ruling that the kindling is the key to the mitzvah, our Sages taught us a profound lesson. While the preservation of the Torah springs from its inherent Divine potency, we must remain active and do our share despite all difficulties. But although the 'kindling' is our duty, we may calmly leave the continued burning to Hashem. He does not expect us to guarantee success, only to do what He asks of us. The same is true of all measures we must take when called upon to fulfill our Jewish duty. Let us go through life as an example to our children. Let us fight for Hashem and His Torah. For in the same measure in which we fight for Hashem, Hashem also fights for us.

(R' Shlomo Breuer, Chochmah Umussar as quoted in Chanukah: Its History, Observance and Significance. Mesorah Publications. Brooklyn, New York)

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