We think of Christmas as the Christian festival and New Year as simply another excuse for a party just because the date changes.

But the one who was born in Bethlehem brings a message to St Albans and Harpenden that resonates with our love of things new.

2013 has no doubt had its ups and downs for most of us, so the promise of something fresh, the potential to start again, the offer to erase the bits of the past we’d really rather put to one side, is attractive.

And with it go those resolutions: to do better this year, to get fit again, to improve some part of our character.

The trouble is those quickly fade and by the time next December comes we’ll be more than ready to look forward to yet another new year, another fresh start, another heap of hopes and dreams.

But Jesus is the specialist in making things new.

He often talked about the new wine be was bringing – and he certainly believed in parties! People noted that his teaching was new.

A Christian is described in the Bible as someone who is a completely ‘new creation’. And in the fullness of time God will make all things new.

If you are discontent with the old, be it the year that is passing or the person that is you, listen to the one who offers all things new.

The big difference?

It’s a once for all newness that changes everything.

For ever.