Christmas is almost over, and the new year has begun under the 2026 motto. In January, our divine services will follow the life of Jesus, from infant to Saviour of the world. Here are the topics that will be explored this month.
“Don’t be afraid. Just believe!” This is the motto of the New Apostolic Church for 2026. The first Sunday in January was dedicated to fear, faith, and trust.
The first midweek service brings the Christmas season to a close by looking back at Epiphany, which is celebrated on 6 January, and the commemoration of the incarnation of God in Jesus. The Bible text for this service from Luke 2: 29–32 is taken from the song of Simeon, the prophet who had been waiting in the temple for the appearance of the Saviour. And then he recognised Jesus …
Seeking the nearness of God
Even the Saviour started small. Born as an infant to human parents, He was laid into a manger. And later, as a twelve-year-old, He went into the temple, stating, “Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” (Luke 2: 49).
He knew that His life was determined by His Father in heaven. The Son of God sought to be close to God. God was present in Him. This signifies an invitation to all of God’s children today. This is what the second Sunday service in January will focus on.
Daring to make a new start
Just under two decades later, Jesus started His public ministry. He was baptised and John the Baptist, the last prophet of the old covenant, publicly announced the great news: “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1: 29).
John 1: 29–31 is the basis for the third Sunday service in January. Since then, baptism has developed from an act of repentance to a sacrament. But the rebirth out of water and the Spirit is only the beginning of the essential development.
Growing in faith
The next step: Jesus performed His first miracle. It was at a wedding celebration. His public ministry began with the transformation of water into wine. But it was not the effect that was important.
Jesus “manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him”. This statement captures the heart of the Bible text for the fourth Sunday service from John 2: 9–11. Some two thousand years later, this miracle still has much to teach those who follow Jesus Christ.
Photo: Andreas Berheide – stock.adobe.com