People greet the Civil New Year with a variety of emotions, a wide array of expectations both positive and negative.
Many individuals, for instance, experience joy as January 1st rolls around each year. They look forward to changing their lives for the better, to countless unseen, unknown possibilities. Others become nervous or anxious. There is perceived pressure to set New Year’s Resolutions coupled with painful remembrances of the past, as well as fear of what lies ahead. We just saw a reason for such fear with the attack in New Orleans last night. And then, there are those for whom January 1st is like any other day. No need to make a fuss, to be optimistic or pessimistic: “I can pray, party, set Resolutions, look forward to hopes and dreams at any time. I do not need an imposed date to change the way I think and behave.”
Regardless of where we personally fall into this range of responses, the point would be that we have an opportunity each January 1st along with our fellow countrymen, to feel close to them, to acknowledge with them the joys, possibilities and even sorrows that a New Year potentially brings. Regardless of faith or politics, we can find a certain comradery with our neighbors, as they undoubtedly experience the same feelings that we have connected to time and life changes. They embrace the same expectations, fears and joys. We can learn to rely on their support and guidance while they, in turn, rely on us.
The question for Orthodox Christians, however, is how do we specifically greet the Civil New Year, understanding that we have a great deal in common with our neighbors, and yet, we have much to share that is unique?
This morning, we are off to a good start. We are here in Church, offering praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, and we would certainly invite our friends and families to do the same. How can one fully appreciate and celebrate a change-over in time, if he or she does not “refer it all” to the Creator of time and space? We are here on this religious (also civil) holiday celebrating God’s divine condescension made manifest through His humble birth, and His circumcision in the flesh according to the Law. We are also commemorating today one of the Lord’s greatest disciples, our Father among the Saints, Basil the Great. Beyond that, we are praying this morning for forgiveness, strength, courage, determination, peace, guidance and prosperity in the months ahead. The prayers later on will mention these more emphatically. We are here, as well, seeking wisdom: we genuinely want to know how it is and what it means for Christ’s Disciples to take up their Cross, following in the footsteps of Jesus each day.
This good start to the New Year must lead to further action: growth in faith and a virtuous disposition. If we desire meaningful Resolutions, we can pick any list of activities that will take the focus off of us and place it on Jesus, on the neighbor as well: i.e. pray for others, offer forgiveness, be kind and charitable, especially to those who need extra help in specific areas of life. Be faithful with personal prayer and Church attendance.
In short, a good rule (if you will) for 2025 will take to heart the words of St. John the Baptist: “He (Jesus) must increase and I must decrease.” This would apply also to family, friends and acquaintances. Our neighbors should increase in our appreciation and understanding of them, as we treat them with respect and dignity. We cannot go wrong if we strive to live by St. John’s inspired principle. To Christ be all glory, honor and worship, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen. Christ is Born! Blessed New Year!
(From a January 1st sermon.)