Doing a New Thing (lunar new year 2025)

Open with Prayer: God, we thank you for this time together, for the technology that makes it possible, and the hearts that connect us. Be with us as we travel, join us in this journey, and help us see and hear you always. Amen.

Read: Isaiah 43:18-21

Do not remember the former things,

    or consider the things of old. 

I am about to do a new thing;

    now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?

I will make a way in the wilderness

    and rivers in the desert.

The wild animals will honour me,

    the jackals and the ostriches;

for I give water in the wilderness,

    rivers in the desert,

to give drink to my chosen people,

    the people whom I formed for myself

so that they might declare my praise.

Ask: 

Lunar New Year is a celebration of family and human connections, as well as a desire for good things in the new year. What connections and good things do you hope for yourself and your family this year? 

When Isaiah wrote that God is about to do a new thing, what did it make you think of? 

If you’ve ever been really thirsty, what did it feel like to finally get some water to drink? How is Lunar New Year like a fresh drink of water? 

What do you feel like God might be up to in your family’s life? 

(Parents and caregivers, this article has a bunch of great ideas, both on the history of Lunar New Year and on ways your family can celebrate the holiday. Give it a go!)

Finish with Prayer: 

God, thank you for being with us on Lunar New Year. 

God, today we thank you for: (something or someone you’re grateful for)
God, today we need your help with: (something hard or difficult you need to do)
God, today please be with: (someone who may be sick, sad, or hurt)
We ask all this in Jesus’ name.

Amen