A fresh start and a reason for being optimistic

The Jewish New Year, known as Rosh Hashanah is celebrated tomorrow (21^st September). It’s a time of reflection, renewal, and hope. Rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures, it marks the beginning of the sacred calendar year and calls the Jewish community to repentance, prayer, and anticipation of God’s judgment. 

Whilst this is celebrated around the world by Jewish communities, from the lense of Christianity, the Year of Jubilee has more meaning. It’s one of those fascinating truths of the Old Testament which for Christadelphians, is not just history, it’s a sneak peek at what’s coming when Jesus returns.

So, what was Jubilee all about? In ancient Israel, every 50 years the people were called to hit the reset button. Leviticus 25:23. Land went back to its original owners, debts were forgiven, and anyone who had fallen into slavery because of poverty was set free. It was a year of release, restoration, and hope — a vivid reminder that everything ultimately belongs to God.

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting. The Jubilee wasn’t just about economics or social justice — it was a picture of something bigger. When Jesus started his ministry, (Luke 4) he read from Isaiah and spoke words that sound a lot like Jubilee: “to proclaim liberty to the captives… to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” In other words, he came to bring the ultimate reset — not just financial freedom or land, but freedom from sin, suffering, and death.

We see this true Jubilee as something which is still ahead. When Jesus returns, the world will experience the full reset God intended. People will be freed from oppression, justice will finally be established, and the earth itself will be renewed. The inheritance God promised to His people will be restored, and everyone who has put their trust in Him will see the hope of Jubilee fulfilled.

The Year of new beginnings is more than an ancient law. It’s a promise, of God’s bigger plan. And it’s also a gentle nudge to live in hope, preparing for the day when Jesus will return and the ultimate Jubilee will finally arrive. Until then, we can carry this optimism our hearts — a reminder that with God, there’s always a fresh start waiting just around the corner.