Christmas in Hedonist Island

I’m not used to do a reportage of an event, so this isn't one...

I can’t remember the last time I went to church to attend Christmas Eve service. I think we (not just me, but also the rest of the family) felt more and more reluctant to go when we realize that it’s just an annual celebration. Remembrance. When you think about something constantly there’s no need to have a special remembrance, right? When you’re consumed by it, there’s no need to have a special day as a limelight of the event. Therefore I don’t think there’s any harm in (sort of) ignoring an old tradition that serves more as marketing tool for the rest of the world without even bothering what it’s actually about.

Well, this year I consider a bit special, out of the ordinary because I my the 1st chance (ever) to spend it away from family. The timing of my move was perfect (isn’t He a timely God!!). Got involved with the company’s Christmas celebration and from then on we arranged to attend Christmas Eve service together.

The six of us went to a GBI church at Lembah Pujian. Being early birds we sat ourselves in the middle. Along the service they set a fragmented short drama based on Matt 25, combined with singing Christmas carols (also mixed with other gospel songs) and prayers. Then a little girl came up to the stage helped by her mom. Apparently she is blind. Despite her blindness she has composed a number of songs, dedicated to Jesus (that was her own words). Then she sang a couple of songs. Her child voice was clear and filled the room. Touching.

The Christmas message was.... hmmm... I’m not sure, coz he presented several messages and some were out of context. It was typical “bethel”, where it was heavy on the “receiving blessings” and forgot to mention the other side of the coin, which is to be a blessing (as pictured on the drama).

Anyway, I’m glad I went; despite the bomb issue (metal detector was installed in the entry door). How was yours? Was it a jolly remembrance? Care to share?