Christmas season in Aceh is different...in, dare I say...a good way.
Of course the obvious comes to mind: we are not surrounded by the commercialism that so annoys and haunts Christians (although they often succumb to the temptation). The lack of commercialism is a no-brainer; you don't have to live outside the States to assume such a thing. However, we live in a region where there is no sign of the Christmas season, except for the handful of believers whose homes are decorated, but you wouldn't know it unless you entered them. There is no Christmas music playing on the radio; no decorations for sale; certainly no cooler weather to invite Jack Frost to come visit! When we step outside our door, it is just a regular day as if it were August 12th. That's our new city during the Christmas season.
However, I'm finding in my heart that this is a very good thing. Because, throughout this past year I experienced many of the holidays of my new Acehnese friends; I had question after question regarding their traditions and why they would do this or that. Many times their actions seemed silly to me because they didn't have an answer. Well, a few days ago, as my family and I were decorating our home for Christmas (which consists of a tree and a few small other items), I began to imagine a future conversation that I might have with one of my new friends: Why a tree? Why ornaments? Why THOSE ornaments? Why lights? Why cookies? Why Christmas parties? Why? Why? Why? All very good questions that are worthy of good answers. This made me think...hard.
First, my mind quickly raced to wondering if I even have answers to these questions. And if not, what does that mean? And if so, what are they? Are they answers that align with my ultimate and sole purpose of this holiday - the worship and exaltation of Christ? If not, then what?
Second, my thoughts went to being encouraged and giggled with creativity - that here in a region where Christ isn't worshiped, where this holiday isn't celebrated - that this is a blank canvas yet to be painted upon! This is an opportunity for GREAT worship! This is where the Light shines most clearly and brightly - it is absolutely unmistakable. Simply light a candle or light bulb in a dark room and discover what happens. This is a blessing in disguise...and I'm glad it has been revealed to me!
Third, after my mind wrestled through the first two series of things, it settled on a resolution. Our Christmas celebrations will be intentional, purposeful, and meaningful. Constantly asking myself, "Why am I doing this right now?" If the answer is not Christ-exalting, then something must change. And to actively and intentionally seek new ways to display our worship of Him. Simple as that...adoration of the King.
Then, a still small Voice as though whispering in my ear, "What if you asked yourself that question every day for the rest of your time on earth?"
Oh, what a Wonderful Counselor, indeed!
5 comments:
Love this post. Our Father is such a wonderful teacher of life, and the HS is so present. Thank you for sharing the lessons He is teaching you that we can apply in our lives!
Love,
Linda
Praising God for you right now... and for the amazing opportunity you have this Christmas season! I absolutely love this. Pray that we here in America can find ways to be intentional and look different in the midst of all of it. You are loved dearly Kirkwood family :)
Our Christmases overseas were the best. It came close to what was experienced many years ago. We'd go into some little stores and find gifts for each other that had some meaning. Every year we'd go to the beach on the Saturday before Christmas. We'd be sitting on the beach and eventually someone had to say "Our friends are trying to find parking spots in the rain or snow, and here we sit on the beach." It's a tradition our grown up kids still talk about. Gotta say, they were great memories. Praying you have memorable and heartfelt Christmases as well.
Fantastic thoughts! Joy and I are thinking the same things here. We are going to have a tree, but I think we will be making our own traditions to specifically glorify God. It should be fun!
Wise and timely thoughts, Megan. Beautiful reminder to ask and think as we move through this season. What a gift...Thank you.
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