IS IT RIGHT TO OBSERVE 1ST JANUARY AS A NEW YEAR?

  The observance of the 1st of January as the start of a new year is a practice that has been followed by many cultures and societies around the world for centuries. However, the question arises: Is it appropriate to designate this date as the beginning of a new year? we will explore this topic from various perspectives, including the religious aspect of Christianity, specifically in relation to the birth of Jesus Christ and the biblical references that highlight the concept of a new beginning.The adoption of January 1st as the New Year can be traced back to the Roman calendar, which was in use during the time of the Roman Empire. The Roman calendar was heavily influenced by mythology and political events. For instance, January was named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions. It was believed that Janus had the ability to see both the past and the future, making him a fitting representation for the beginning of a new year.The Christian faith holds significant importance when considering the observance of January 1st as the New Year. While the Bible does not explicitly mention celebrating the New Year, it does shed light on the birth of Jesus Christ and the idea of new beginnings and salvation. According to popular belief, Jesus was considered to be born on December 25th. If this assumption is taken into account, the tabling of January 1st as the New Year holds particular significance.In the book of Isaiah 61:1-3, the assignment and mission of Jesus on earth are clearly stated. He is described as being anointed to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, and to proclaim liberty to the captives. This passage indicates the coming of Jesus as a period of salvation and restoration, which resonates with the symbolic nature of the New Year. January 1st can thus be interpreted as a celebration of new beginnings and hope in the Christian context.In biblical history, the first mentioned celebration that served as a form of New Year for the Israelites was the Passover. In Exodus 12:1-28, the Lord commanded the Israelites to observe the Passover as a remembrance of their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The Passover marked a significant event in the history of God's people, symbolizing their liberation and the beginning of a new era.While the observance of January 1st as the New Year may have originated from Roman traditions, it is not inherently opposed to Christian beliefs. In fact, if one assumes that Jesus was born on December 25th, January 1st takes on a Christian significance, representing the start of a new era of salvation and redemption. Furthermore, the biblical concept of new beginnings and the symbolism of the Passover underscore the idea of January 1st as a time to reflect on God's deliverance and dedicate oneself to a renewed purpose.Ultimately, the observance of January 1st as the New Year can be embraced by Christians as an opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the ushering of salvation, and the symbolism of new beginnings. It is important, however, to approach the celebration with reverence and focus on its spiritual significance rather than solely indulging in secular festivities. Exodus 12:1-28 (The Passover),Isaiah 61:1-3 (The Assignment of Jesus),Matthew 1:21 (The Birth of Jesus). Walk into the new year with faith and high hope  for a new beginning, forgetting the past failure, difficulties, disappointment and unfulfilled promises of the year 2023. look forward with enthusiasm to glorious year 2024. Aspire to do things differently, because if you walk the way you did in 2023 you will get the same result.See you in better and greater position in the year 2024.

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