Fear and uncertainty define our times. The Chief Apostle counters this with a reassuring thought from Jesus and encourages us to face the new year with trust, faith, and confidence.
Here is the wording:
Dear brothers and sisters,
Welcome into the new year. It is my sincere wish that you may experience God’s presence and guidance even more powerfully this year, both personally and within your family and congregation.
For many, I know, the year begins with fear and worry: worries about the children or the income, worries about the state of the creation or peace in the world.
Considering all of this, I would like to call to mind the words of Jesu: “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mark 5: 36). This message is to accompany us throughout the coming year.
Don’t be afraid! Fear is part of life. In fact, it can even protect us. But when the balance tips and fear takes over, it causes damage. Fear can cause divisions, stir up mistrust and hostility, lead to narrow points of view, obscure the things that really matter—and ultimately result in paralysis.
Don’t be afraid. Just believe! This does not mean that we should ignore our fears.
Rather, it means: don’t focus on the things that frighten you, keep your eyes on Jesus. You can trust Him. He is able to do much more than you can imagine.
Let us reflect on the power of faith. A living faith helps us to remain steadfast in our love for God and our neighbour—even in difficult times.
Our personal faith is characterised by our experiences, our role models, and church tradition. But at its core is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The belief in the gospel is the faith that saves, that leads us into fellowship with God. The gospel is the good news that dispels fear.
Just believe! This means that we should trust in God’s love. We do believe that He Himself is working to liberate us forever. Anyone who experiences this love cannot help but reciprocate it. The first epistle of John summarises it best: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.”
We believe in Jesus Christ and follow Him by remaining steadfast in our love for God and our neighbour—despite everything that is happening in this world.
Just believe! This is also a call to focus on the foundations of the New Apostolic faith. In 2026, let us take a closer look at our Creed and immerse ourselves in its content. This will help us to overcome our fears and confront dangers with composure and serenity.
Dear brothers and sisters, I wish you all a year 2026 that renews and strengthens your faith: “Don’t be afraid; just believe!” (NIV)
Photo: Oliver Rütten