Issues, Etc. The New Year Hymn, Now Greet the Swiftly Changing Year” – Dr. Arthur Just, 1/1/26 (0012, Encore)
Dec 31, 2025
Join Dr. Arthur Just, a New Testament professor and author, as he explores the rich theological depth of the New Year hymn. He discusses January 1's significance linked to Christ's naming and circumcision, emphasizing its connections to baptismal life. Dr. Just highlights the hymn's Slovak roots and its scriptural foundations from Luke and Psalms. He examines joy and repentance, Christ's abundant love, and the angelic proclamation of peace. Drawing reflections on fear and hope, he encourages embracing a new year filled with grace.
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Vajda's Memory Shaped The Translation
- Jaroslav Vajda remembered singing the hymn on New Year's Eve with his mother to the same tune he later translated.
- Arthur Just notes the hymn's joy and cultural roots made him want it in wider Christian use.
Hymn Connects Infancy, Psalms, And Doxology
- The hymn weaves Luke 2 (angels, circumcision), Psalms (thanksgiving), and Ephesians (doxology) into a thanksgiving hymn.
- Just observes it could function as a harvest or general thanksgiving piece as well as for the church year.
Penitence And Joy Belong Together
- The hymn pairs joy and penitence to reflect Advent's movement from repentance to Christmas joy.
- Just emphasizes repentance wrought by the Spirit produces genuine joy because sins are forgiven in Christ.