A 2023 Chinese New Year Message
“…I pray for good fortune in everything you do, and for your good health—that your everyday affairs prosper, as well as your soul!” 3 John 2. [The Message]
The catchy Chinese New Year tune — ‘Gong Xi Gong Xi’, according to Leon Long, who specializes in China educational tours, “wasn’t even intended for Chinese New Year….”
It was actually written by composer Mr. Chen Gexin (1914-1961) “to celebrate China’s victory and liberation following Japan’s defeat at the end of the second Sino-Japanese War (World War II) in 1945.”
“Gong Xi Gong Xi” (Congratulations, Congratulations) – which is a common Chinese New Year greeting, “celebrates the arrival of spring, which is often used as a symbol of the arrival of the new year.”
Today, those of Chinese descent the world over, gather with loved ones to usher in the Lunar New Year. We pray that you’ll have a blessed time with family and friends. Savor these moments. Make the most of it. Money does not make the occasion a happy one, but the company of loved ones, does. Cherish that!
There may be some reading this post who are going through a terrible “winter” experience–with your health, your finances, or your relationships going south. These may be giving you sleepless nights, anxious moments, bouts of depression, or even a broken heart.
But friend, like spring is in the air, help is only a prayer away. Winter does not come to remain forever. “Spring” is here! Better days are ahead. We worship the God Who says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5). “When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Proverbs 16:7). “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ … your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.” (Matthew 6:31,32).
So may you prosper spiritually; may you experience a saving relationship with God. May your work, your business, your family, your physical and emotional health, prosper, as that of your spiritual life.
While you’re enjoying the company of your loved ones, won’t you join me in prayer for:
1. Those who are not able to celebrate due to a health challenge, or, no family left to return to, or, because they’ve to work to cover for those who are off work.
2. Those who are victims of circumstance, i.e., refugees who flee their countries due to war or political unrest or economic instability; child brides who are forced to marry to atone for a parent’s debt, to support the family, or due to broken and abused homes; human trafficking victims where children, youth and even adults are trafficked and sold to the highest bidder into prostitution, forced labor, or for their organs.
3. Those who do not have basic amenities like clean water, basic nutrition, food, proper living conditions, or shelter from the harsh elements of nature.
And if you or someone you love, need hope, log on to our website: www.discoverhope.my today to discover hope!
Keep well. Stay safe!
Voice of Prophecy, Malaysia
(Discover Hope)