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CNY decorations in Macau.<\/p><\/div>\n
Actually, the symbols and traditions of the Chinese New Year are deeply rooted in more than 5,000 years of human culture and beliefs. Unfortunately, many of the traditions have roots in astrology, religious horoscopes, feng shui , lucky superstitions and the ambition to become prosperous and wealthy. As we know from the Bible, these practices are forbidden for those who serve the Lord God.\u00a0 For this reason, the Spring Festival can be quite challenging for Christians of Chinese descent who no longer believe in luck but believe that the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord and that every good and perfect gift is from their Father which is from above.\u00a0 “Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength to all” 1 Chr 29:12.\u00a0 Christians are challenged to abstain from the cultural practices based on luck and instead focus on the good Chinese New Year traditions such as visiting family, friends and relatives (some traveling thousands of kms home on crowded buses and trains), sharing\u00a0 foods and the exchange of small\u00a0 gifts etc.\u00a0 Hopefully, they can use the opportunity to share how thankful they are that God has blessed them.\u00a0 An interesting thing to note is that with so many Christians in China, ( some estimate that there are now more Christians than members of the communist Party !)\u00a0 a new culture of texting Christian greetings and prayers for the New Year is proliferating. Besides the new fad of on-line sending and receiving of hongbao<\/em>, or red envelope gifts, wishes for peace and eternal joy from God are now circulating on social media sites! Praise be to God! Pray for the innovative Chinese Church in China to find new ways to share the gospel of His love!!<\/p>\n Jorge:<\/p>\n After one year in the mainland we have closed the apartment and we are back in Macau. This year we have several goals we will try to attain from here. A possible trip to Portugal this spring is in the works. Not least, there is the arrival of Emanuel and Mandy’s new baby expected for April. We also hope to assist and encourage those of our family who are studying and working in Macau and strengthen our unity to face future challenges. We also are enjoying fellowship and activities together. Always enjoy hearing from family near and far.<\/p>\n Assorted pictures:<\/p>\n All together in Taipa<\/p><\/div>\n At Emanuel and Mandy’s home for CNY dinner.<\/p><\/div>\n Expired Image!<\/p><\/div>\n Picnic around the island.<\/p><\/div>\n Bel Bel being cute<\/p><\/div>\n Brave Zac in Hawai<\/p><\/div>\n Philip, Julie and Zac in Hawai<\/p><\/div>\n Cristiana and sher singing teacher in Portugal<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Donna: February was another month of beginnings, as we peacefully entered the Chinese New Year! Actually, the symbols and traditions of the Chinese New Year are deeply rooted in more than 5,000 years of human culture and beliefs. Unfortunately, many … Continue reading ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/wordfree.net\/news2\/wp-content\/uploads\/alltogether_taipa-600x338.jpg\")
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