December 30, 2022

 God has been gracious this year!

God With Us 

Happy Friday! 

All around the world New Years is celebrated. What a joyful time! Who are we following as we observe holidays?

Some believed in the god of new beginnings. Just like Christmas things get changed over time. Things like kissing under a mistletoe, carolling, wreaths, and even gift-giving were all aspects of pagan holidays that were adapted into Christmas celebrations in the early years.

Over the years how I celebrate Christmas has changed. Just because everyone else is doing it doesn't mean we should follow the world. Or people leading social media with millions of followers. We should follow Jesus. New years simply means a new beginning.

Jewish community celebrates it through what is called Rosh Hashanah which commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement.

How did they celebrate?

By repenting for any sins over the year as well as completing observances like: Praying in synagogue, personal reflection, and hearing or blowing the shofar

The Jewish New Year is a different calendar date. But why is it important to us? Why care?

They are a model of what God accepts. 

As you plan your New Year! 

I hope it is happy and filled with joy. 

A new beginning can be any day we decide to have the mind of God. Then we will have change not because it's a new year but because it's a new us. 

Have a great day!