The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, December 31, 2023—New Year's Eve

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Commentaries
Sunday, December 31, 2023
New Year's Eve

A New Dawn of Grace and Glory:
Embracing the Light of Divine Promise

Isaiah 61:10—62:3; Psalm 148; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:22-40
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(First Sunday after Christmas Day)

Introduction

As we stand on the threshold of a New Year, our hearts turn to the profound messages of Isaiah 61:10—62:3, Psalm 148, Galatians 4:4-7, and Luke 2:22-40. These scriptures, resonating with the spirit of renewal and hope, invite us to reflect on the transformative power of God's love and promise. Isaiah's exultant declaration of being clothed in salvation and righteousness, paralleled with the Psalm's call to all creation to praise the Lord, sets a tone of joyous celebration. The passage from Galatians reminds us of our adoption as God's children, heirs through Christ, while Luke's account of Jesus' presentation in the temple and the prophecies of Simeon and Anna highlight the fulfillment of long-awaited redemption. Together, these scriptures weave a tapestry of divine grace and glory, urging us to embrace the new year with faith, hope, and a heart ready to receive the abundant blessings God has in store.

Joy To The World

Opening Prayer
(Isaiah 61–62)

Heavenly Father, as we gather on this last day of the year, we turn our hearts to Your promises in Isaiah 61–62. We thank You for the year that has passed, with its challenges and blessings, and we look forward with hope to the year ahead.

Lord, in Your mercy, clothe us with the garments of salvation, as You have promised in Your Word. Let the oil of joy replace mourning, and a garment of praise uplift the spirit of heaviness among us. May our lives reflect Your beauty and righteousness, blossoming like a garden that You have cultivated.

In this new year, may we be known as oaks of righteousness, planted by You, displaying Your splendor. Help us to rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated in our lives. May our communities be renewed, and our families strengthened in Your love.

As You have proclaimed a year of Your favor, we ask for Your guiding hand in every step we take. Let Your light shine through us, that we may be beacons of hope in a world that so desperately needs it. May our joy in You be our strength, and Your peace our constant companion.

Bless this gathering, O Lord, and all those we hold dear. Guide us into the new year with wisdom and grace, that in all we do, we may glorify Your name.

In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(Isaiah 61–62, Luke 2)

Heavenly Father, as we stand on the threshold of a new year, we come before You with hearts seeking forgiveness and renewal. Inspired by Your Word in Isaiah 61-62 and Luke 2, we acknowledge our shortcomings and our need for Your grace.

Lord, in the spirit of Isaiah 61, we confess that we have not always been the oaks of righteousness that You have called us to be. We have often faltered in rebuilding the ancient ruins and restoring the places long devastated in our lives and in the lives of others. Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have not been repairers of broken walls and restorers of streets with dwellings.

As we reflect on the joyous message of Luke 2, we confess that we have sometimes failed to embrace the good news of great joy for all people—the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Forgive us for the moments when our actions and words have not reflected the peace and salvation He brings.

In this New Year, we seek to embody the spirit of Your anointed one, to proclaim good news to the poor, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness for the prisoners. May Your favor and the day of Your vengeance be known in our actions and lives.

As we turn to the new year, fill us with Your Spirit, that we may be beacons of hope and light in a world that often feels dark and hopeless. Help us to be the change we wish to see, living out the love and grace of Jesus in every word and deed.

We thank You, Lord, for Your unending mercy and love. As the year turns, renew us, that we may shine forth like the dawn, our vindication like the noonday sun, as declared in Isaiah 62.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Luke 2, Galatians 4, Psalm 148)

Brothers and sisters in Christ, as we stand on the threshold of a new year, let us embrace the assurance of God’s unfailing love and mercy, as revealed to us through His Holy Word.

From Luke 2, we recall the birth of Jesus, our Savior, a fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem the world. In the tender mercy of our God, a light from on high has dawned upon us, to shine on those living in darkness and guide our feet into the path of peace.

In Galatians 4, we are reminded that when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. As God's children, we are no longer slaves but heirs through God.

As Psalm 148 calls all creation to praise the Lord, let us join the heavens, the heights, all His angels, the sun, moon, and shining stars in exalting His Holy name. For He commanded, and they were created. He set them in place forever and ever; He gave a decree that will never pass away.

Therefore, let us enter this new year with hearts full of gratitude and mouths ready to praise. For in Jesus Christ, we are forgiven, loved, and freed. Let us hold fast to this truth and walk in the light of His grace and truth. Amen.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
Isaiah 61:10—62:3
A New Year's Celebration of Renewal and Glory

As we stand on the cusp of a New Year, it's a time for reflection, hope, and renewal. Isaiah 61:10—62:3 encapsulates these themes beautifully, offering a message of joy, salvation, and transformation. These verses serve as a reminder of the spiritual rejuvenation and the promise of glory that come with faith and devotion.

61 10 I delight greatly in the Lord;
        my soul rejoices in my God.
    For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
        and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness,
    as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,
        and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
11  For as the soil makes the sprout come up
        and a garden causes seeds to grow,
    so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness
        and praise spring up before all nations.

62 1 For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
        for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet,
    till her vindication shines out like the dawn,
        her salvation like a blazing torch.
2    The nations will see your vindication,
        and all kings your glory;
    you will be called by a new name
        that the mouth of the Lord will bestow.
3    You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand,
        a royal diadem in the hand of your God.

Commentary

Isaiah 61:10—62:3 resonates with the spirit of New Year's Eve, a time when people around the world look forward to a fresh start and new beginnings.

Verse 61:10 expresses a profound joy in salvation and righteousness. The imagery of being clothed in garments of salvation and a robe of righteousness is particularly powerful as we shed the old year and embrace the new. It's a reminder of the spiritual renewal and cleansing that faith brings.

In verses 62:1-3, the focus shifts to the promise of transformation—not just for the individual, but for the community and nation. The verses speak of a new identity and purpose, symbolized by a new name given by the Lord. This mirrors the resolutions and hopes that many set for the New Year, aiming for personal and collective improvement. The passage culminates in verse 3, with a vivid metaphor of being a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand, a royal diadem held by God. It's a message of immense value and honor bestowed upon the faithful. As the New Year dawns, this verse invites us to see ourselves and our communities through this lens of divine glory and potential.

In essence, Isaiah 61:10—62:3 aligns perfectly with the themes of New Year's Eve. It calls for a celebration of the salvation we've received, the transformation we're undergoing, and the glorious future that lies ahead. As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, these verses encourage us to embrace the spiritual journey with renewed vigor and hope.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 148
Praise from All Creation

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and anticipation. Psalm 148, a magnificent hymn of praise, calls upon all of creation to praise the Lord. This psalm vividly illustrates the harmony and unity of the universe in its worship of God. It reminds us that every element of creation, from the highest heavens to the deepest oceans, has a voice in this grand chorus of praise. On this New Year's Eve, let us join this cosmic song of thanksgiving and hope, acknowledging the divine presence in every part of our lives and the world around us.

1    Praise the Lord.

    Praise the Lord from the heavens; *
        Praise him in the heights above.

2    Praise him, all his angels; *
        Praise him, all his heavenly hosts.

3    Praise him, sun and moon; *
        Praise him, all you shining stars.

4    Praise him, you highest heavens *
        And you waters above the skies.

5    Let them praise the name of the Lord, *
        For at his command they were created,

6    And he established them for ever and ever— *
        He issued a decree that will never pass away.

7    Praise the Lord from the earth, *
        You great sea creatures and all ocean depths,

8    Lightning and hail, snow and clouds, *
        Stormy winds that do his bidding,

9    You mountains and all hills, *
        Fruit trees and all cedars,

10  Wild animals and all cattle, *
        Small creatures and flying birds,

11  Kings of the earth and all nations, *
        You princes and all rulers on earth,

12  Young men and women, *
        Old men and children.

13  Let them praise the name of the Lord,
            for his name alone is exalted; *
        His splendor is above the earth and the heavens.

14  And he has raised up for his people a horn,
            the praise of all his faithful servants,
            of Israel, the people close to his heart. *

        Praise the Lord.

Heavenly Father, as we gather to celebrate the close of another year, we turn our hearts and minds to the words of Psalm 148. We are in awe of Your majestic creation, from the vast expanse of the heavens to the intricate beauty of the earth. Tonight, as we witness the transition from the old to the new, we join with the angels, the sun, moon, stars, and all elements of nature in praising Your glorious name.

Lord, as each verse of Psalm 148 unfolds, let our spirits be lifted in gratitude for the blessings of the past year. May our souls resonate with the harmony of the universe, which sings of Your unending love and faithfulness. In moments of joy and in times of challenge, remind us that Your presence is as constant as the rhythms of creation that never cease to praise You.

As we step into the new year, fill our hearts with hope and our minds with peace. Guide our steps in the path of righteousness, love, and compassion. Help us to be stewards of Your creation, caring for the earth and all living beings as a reflection of our love for You.

In this sacred moment of transition, we commit the year ahead into Your loving hands. May our lives be a continuous song of praise, echoing the eternal chorus of Psalm 148. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

Galatians 4:4-7
Embraced by Time: Celebrating Our Adoption as Children of God

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, it's a time for reflection, hope, and a deep sense of gratitude. This New Year's Eve, we turn our hearts and minds to a profound passage from Galatians 4:4-7, which beautifully encapsulates the essence of our Christian journey and our relationship with God. In these verses, the Apostle Paul speaks to the core of our faith, reminding us of the extraordinary transformation that has taken place in our lives through Christ. As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, let us delve into these verses to discover the timeless truth of our divine adoption and the freedom it brings.

4 4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. 6 Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” 7 So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.

Commentary

Verse 4 — The Fulfillment of Time: This verse powerfully signals the culmination of God's perfect timing. Just as we mark the end of one year and the beginning of another, this passage reminds us that in the fullness of time, God enacted His ultimate plan of salvation. Jesus’ birth, life, and sacrifice were not random events; they were divinely appointed moments that changed history and our destinies forever.

Verse 5 — Redemption and Adoption: The beauty of New Year's Eve is not just in the celebration of a new beginning but also in the remembrance of what has passed—our redemption. Christ's coming was not merely to teach or to heal, but to redeem us, to pay the price that we could not pay. This redemption is not just liberation; it is an adoption into God's family. As we step into the new year, we carry with us the identity of beloved children of God, no longer slaves to sin or fear.

Verse 6 — The Spirit of Sonship: This verse invites us to experience an intimate relationship with God. The Holy Spirit dwelling within us affirms our identity as God's children. As we celebrate and look forward, let's also listen to the Spirit's gentle whisper, reminding us of our beloved status and guiding us into deeper fellowship with our Heavenly Father.

Verse 7 — Heirs of God’s Glory: What a glorious truth to carry into the new year! Our status has been forever changed—from slaves to children, from outsiders to heirs. This inheritance is not of perishable things but of eternal value and glory. As we embrace the new year, let us live in the fullness of this inheritance, shining as beacons of hope and love in a world that desperately needs it.

In conclusion, Galatians 4:4-7 is not just a passage for contemplation but a call to celebration. As we gather this New Year's Eve, let's rejoice in our shared identity as God's children, redeemed and adopted, filled with His Spirit, and heirs to His eternal kingdom. Happy New Year, and may the peace and joy of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

Today’s Gospel Reading
Luke 2:22-40
A New Beginning: Embracing Hope and Faith

As we stand on the threshold of another New Year, it's a time for reflection, renewal, and embracing the promises of what lies ahead. The passage from Luke 2:22-40 beautifully encapsulates the essence of new beginnings, hope, and faith. This scripture narrates the presentation of the infant Jesus at the Temple and the profound revelations of Simeon and Anna, two devout and righteous individuals who had been eagerly awaiting the Messiah. Their recognition of Jesus as the light of revelation and the glory of Israel symbolizes the arrival of a new era, not just for them but for all humanity.

2 22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”

25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:

29  “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
        you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
30  For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31        which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
32  a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
        and the glory of your people Israel.”

33 The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

36 There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

39 When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.

Commentary

The Significance of the Temple Presentation: The dedication of Jesus at the Temple is a pivotal moment, underscoring the fulfillment of the law and the connection between the Old and New Testaments. It serves as a bridge between Jewish tradition and the Christian faith, highlighting the continuity of God's plan for salvation.

Simeon's Prophetic Encounter: Simeon, led by the Holy Spirit, recognizes Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. His declaration that Jesus is a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Israel is profound. It speaks of the universal salvation and hope that Jesus brings, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

Anna’s Testimony: Anna, a prophetess, upon seeing Jesus, gives thanks to God and speaks about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. Her actions exemplify the role of believers in sharing the good news and being witnesses to God's work in the world.

Embracing a New Chapter: As we celebrate New Year's Eve, this passage invites us to embrace the new beginnings in our own lives. Just as Simeon and Anna witnessed the dawn of a new era with Jesus' arrival, we too are called to step into the new year with renewed hope, faith, and a readiness to share the light we have received.

Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness: The unwavering faith of Simeon and Anna, who waited years to see God's promise fulfilled, encourages us to trust in God's timing and faithfulness. Their experience reminds us that God's promises are true and will come to pass in His perfect timing.

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, let us hold onto the hope and joy that the passage from Luke 2:22-40 brings. It's a reminder that in every beginning, there is the promise of God's presence, guidance, and the unfolding of His divine plan for our lives.

Here end the Readings

Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message

The Nicene Creed

The Nicene Creed

• We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

• And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made; of the same essence as the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and was made human. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end.

• And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

The Lord's Prayer - Our Father Who Art in Heaven

Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion
A nondenominational serving of bread and wine

Though no video can truly replace the experience of celebrating together in our places of worship, we know that where two or more are gathered, the Lord is present. This table is open to all who recognize Jesus Christ as healer and redeemer. This table is open to all who work to bring God’s Kingdom here on earth. No one is turned away because of life circumstances. No one is barred from this table. No one seeking God’s abundant grace and mercy is turned aside. We see before us the abundance that a life of faith offers as we respond to God’s everlasting mercy in prayer and deed.

Communion Prayer
(Philippians 2)

Pour out your Holy Spirit on us and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the life and love of Christ, that we may be the body of Christ for the world, redeemed and unified by Christ’s love and grace. By your Spirit, make us one with Christ, one with one another, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory and we feast at your heavenly banquet. Through Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in your holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and forevermore. Amen.

Benediction
(Galatians 4)

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, let us embrace the spirit of Galatians 4. May we remember that through faith, we are no longer bound by the yoke of the old, but are renewed as children of promise.

In the coming year, may you experience the freedom and joy that comes from being heirs of God’s grace. Just as it is written, "But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship."

May this year bring a deeper understanding of your identity in Christ, knowing you are no longer a slave but a beloved child of God, and with that, an heir. May His love guide your decisions, His wisdom illuminate your paths, and His peace fill your hearts.

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, may we carry the spirit of God's love and promise into each day. Let us walk in the spirit of unity, love, and understanding, cherishing our freedom in Christ, while serving one another humbly in love.

And so, as the clock ticks towards midnight, let us step into the new year with hearts full of hope, eyes lifted to the heavens, and spirits buoyed by the love of our Father. Happy New Year, and may God's blessings be upon you in all your endeavors. Amen.

Christmas Really Happened

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries by Kenny Sallee, ThM.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, December 31, 2023
New Year's Eve
A New Dawn of Grace and Glory: Embracing the Light of Divine Promise
Isaiah 61:10—62:3; Psalm 148; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:22-40
As we stand on the threshold of a New Year, our hearts turn to the profound messages of today's readings. These scriptures, resonating with the spirit of renewal and hope, invite us to reflect on the transformative power of God's love and promise. Isaiah's exultant declaration of being clothed in salvation and righteousness, paralleled with the Psalm's call to all creation to praise the Lord, sets a tone of joyous celebration. The passage from Galatians reminds us of our adoption as God's children, heirs through Christ, while Luke's account of Jesus' presentation in the temple and the prophecies of Simeon and Anna highlight the fulfillment of long-awaited redemption. Together, these scriptures weave a tapestry of divine grace and glory, urging us to embrace the new year with faith, hope, and a heart ready to receive the abundant blessings God has in store.