By Pr. Rhoda Klein Miller
The Lunar New Year is the most celebrated festival across Asia, also known as the Spring Festival. In many ways it mirrors the Biblical and Jewish Passover. Consider just a couple of the many similarities.
Passover commemorates the last of the ten plagues upon Egypt in the 5th Century BC where the people of Israel were enslaved. The ceremonial painting of lambs’ blood over the doors of their homes signalled to an angel of death their firstborn son would be spared by faith in God. (Exodus 12)
The Spring Festival, called “Guo Nian” means passing the year and asian homes also decorate their doorway with red, a practice thought to ward off a monster who will devour their children.
During the Spring Festival children can ask for Ang Pow (red envelopes) from family and neighbours. The Isrealites also went to their Egyptian neighbours and asked for precious metals and clothing in anticipation of their liberating departure. Exodus 11:2, 12:33.
It seems evident some Jews dispersed East and shared their story and practices to commemorate their miraculous deliverance. While the celebration may have evolved over the years we find at the heart of these holidays a common significance. A time to gather as family, feast and recognize the blessings of protection and provision. Don’t shy away from invitations to recognize these special days. Let’s seize every opportunity to remember our God is faithful. What He did for His people thousands of years ago He will do again. “He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3.