NEW YEAR’S DAY IS A SIGN OF HOPE FOR PEOPLE ALL OVER THE WORLD.
That is why we wait with eager anticipation for the clock to strike midnight and the ball to drop; why we kiss with joy and raise a toast when the hour comes: because we need hope to live.
Curiously, our church calendar identifies January 1st as a lesser festival dedicated to “the Name of Jesus.” On one hand, it makes sense to dedicate each new year to that sacred name, at which all knees must bend. (Romans 14:11)
But this feast has traditionally been known as the Circumcision of Our Lord, which deepens its significance. In Judaism, circumcision is a visible sign of the God’s covenant with his people.
For us Christians, the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion are visible signs of a new covenant made with us through Christ himself.
As we begin the new year, let us remember that our hope is placed firmly in a God who, all through history, has made promises to his people – and has kept them faithfully.