Seasons with Jesus: A Faith-Filled Year for Families

 Five Moments + One Anniversary to Help Children Remember Jesus All Year Long

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”— Matthew 19:14

Joyful spiritual memories from childhood often become lifelong anchors of faith. This verse reminds us that children are not “future Christians”—they are already part of the Kingdom. Their joyful moments of prayer, play, and praise are sacred. Even in non-denominational or house church settings, Christian families can build simple, meaningful traditions that leave a Jesus-centered imprint on a child’s heart for life.

Here are six powerful traditions—including one that’s unique to your home church—that can bless your family year after year.

1. JANUARY — New Year’s Prayer: Jesus Makes All Things New
   

Family Activity: Create a New Year's Prayer Tree. Each person writes a hope or prayer on a leaf-shaped paper and hangs it on a small branch in a vase.

Bible Verse:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17

Short Prayer:

“Jesus, thank You for giving us a new year. Please help us grow in love and stay close to You. We give You our hearts again today. Amen.”

Reflection Thought: Jesus welcomes fresh beginnings. When children pray at the start of a new year, they learn to trust His future more than their fear.

2. APRIL — Easter: The Tomb Is Empty, and So Is My Fear
   

Family Activity: Make Empty Tomb Rolls or create paper tombs that open to reveal light and Scripture.

Bible Verse:

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” — Matthew 28:6

Short Prayer:

“Jesus, thank You for dying for us and rising again. Help us to remember that You are always with us, and that we don’t have to be afraid. Amen.”

Reflection Thought: When children see that the tomb is empty, they understand that Jesus is alive—and so is their hope.

3. AUGUST — Back to School: Jesus Goes With You
   

Family Activity: Bless your children’s school supplies. Lay hands gently on their backpack and say a prayer of protection and wisdom.

Bible Verse:

“The Lord your God goes with you;He will never leave you nor forsake you.” — Deuteronomy 31:6

Short Prayer:

“Jesus, go with me as I learn new things. Help me to be kind, brave, and joyful. Thank You for walking with me at school and everywhere. Amen.”

Reflection Thought: Back-to-school anxiety becomes courage when children know they’re not going alone—Jesus is right beside them.

4. NOVEMBER — Thanksgiving: Giving Thanks Like Jesus
   

Family Activity: Create a Gratitude Jar. Each day of the week, write one thing you’re thankful for. Read them aloud together before Thanksgiving dinner.

Bible Verse:

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Short Prayer:

“Thank You, Jesus, for food, for family, and for all Your love. Teach us to be thankful every day, not just on special days. Amen.”

Reflection Thought: Gratitude teaches children to see God’s goodness, even in small things. A thankful heart is a peaceful heart.

5. DECEMBER — Christmas: Jesus Is the Greatest Gift

Family Activity: Host a Birthday Party for Jesus. Bake a cake, sing worship songs, and give Him a letter or drawing as a gift from the heart.

Bible Verse:

“For unto us a child is born…and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God…” — Isaiah 9:6

Short Prayer:

“Happy Birthday, Jesus! Thank You for coming into the world to save us. Help us to love others the way You love us. Amen.”

Reflection Thought: When Christmas centers on giving to Jesus—not just receiving gifts—children learn where absolute joy comes from.

6. BONUS: Your House Church’s Anniversary — Jesus Is Here
   

   The anniversary of your house church’s beginning is a sacred and joyful day. Whether your gathering is large or small, this moment reminds every heart—especially your children—that Jesus is not only part of our story; He is here, right now, in this home.

   Your living room, your prayers, your songs—all of it becomes holy ground because Jesus dwells where we gather in His name.
   

   Family Activity Suggestions:

   • Create a Yearbook of Gratitude with thank-you notes, drawings, or memories from each family member.

   • Celebrate with a cake and candle just as you would at a birthday—Jesus is the Guest of Honor.

   • Choose and display a “Verse of the Year” together to mark your church’s ongoing walk with Christ.

     
     

     Bible Verse:

“For where two or three are gathered together in my name,there am I in the midst of them.” — Matthew 18:20 (KJV)

Short Prayer:

“Jesus, thank You for planting our little church in this home. Thank You for being here with us every time we gather. Help us to grow in faith, in love, and in joy as we keep following You together. Amen.”

Reflection Thought:

Children may not remember every sermon, but they will remember that Jesus lives here with us. When we celebrate our home church’s life, we’re telling our kids:

“You don’t have to go far to find God—He’s already in this house with us.”

Final Encouragement

Whether it’s January or July, Easter or Tuesday evening…Every moment is a chance to make Jesus unforgettable in the hearts of your children.

These six traditions are more than events—they are living testimonies that Jesus walks with your family through every season.