A new year brings hope for new beginnings. WFR’s mission is to give people fresh hope and help them know how much God loves them. Rosh Hashanah, the Feast of Trumpets, is celebrated this year on September 15th – 17th. People prepare their hearts in repentance and pray for God’s blessing. It is time to let go of the past year’s disappointments and turn our attention to the year ahead. The new year brings an anticipation of God’s bountiful blessings for those whose names are in the Book of Life. According to Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah is one of the holiest days of the year; God commanded His people to take a sabbath rest, gather for worship, and sound the shofar. According to Jewish tradition, prayers are made to petition the Lord for a year filled with sweetness and blessings. A new year welcomes the promise of God’s goodness with great expectation. The church awaits the time when the Lord will descend at the final trumpet blast and the dead will be raised imperishable. 1 Corinthians 15:51-52
Rosh Hashanah is a holy time set aside to glorify GOD as He commanded His chosen people to do. His people declare that the Lord Most High is crowned with glory above all kings. Melech ha-Olam is the King of the universe and of all creation! Jesus told us that He is the Vine, and believers are the branches. The branches must abide in Christ to be nourished and produce wonderful spiritual fruit. Abiding in Christ is more than a casual acquaintance. Abiding is a continual feast in God’s glorious presence. Remember that Mary had much work to do when the Master visited her family’s home, but she sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to Him while Martha was busy cooking. Jesus said that Mary chose the better thing.
The New Year is a time of worship, family gatherings, blessings, special food, and solemn personal reflection. Traditional worship songs are centered on God, our sovereign King. The shofar is sounded, and people exuberantly wish one another a sweet year to come. The Lord desires to bless His people and crown the year with goodness. Psalm 65 tells us of God’s abundant grace: “You crown the year with Your bounty, and Your paths overflow with plenty.” God sends the rain that brings an abundant harvest. L’shana tovah tikatevoo is the traditional greeting on Rosh Hashanah – “May you be inscribed in the Book of Life for a good Year!” I hope you all enjoy a very happy year filled with God’s bountiful blessings. “… We are filled with the goodness of Your house, the holiness of Your Temple.” Psalm 65:4 We are praying that God will greatly bless our partners who support this ministry and make our mission possible. Please consider a special gift this New Year that will help us reach hurting people with the Gospel.
Remember to visit our SHOP for resources and get Bible studies, Prayers for Comfort, and God’s Promises for Strength. And tell someone in need about the Next Generation page that invites people to put their faith in Christ and learn more about God’s plan of salvation. We are so grateful for your support and the many lives that have been changed because of your generosity. God bless you.
L’shana tovah tikatevoo!
Chp. Rhet Peterson