Everyone is enjoying a plate of Christmas cookies.
On Friday, December 13th Kali and I took the kids to a Christmas party at our school, LCE Medan. We have learned that parties here are much more structured. You don’t just show up, talk for a bit, have a cookie or two, and go home. There’s MCs and a schedule of events! We even had assigned seats at one of six tables. There’s no messing around!
Shortly after we arrived and found our assigned seats one of the American LCE workers explained some of her family’s Christmas customs. This is common at events like these where people want to learn both more English and about Western Culture. I even had the opportunity to stand and share about our family’s Christmas traditions. I was happy to do so (I have been replaying the situation over and over in my head. Stay tuned for a post about what I said and how it went!)
I mentioned that my favorite Christmas hymn is Joy to the World (It’s my favorite Christmas hymn that I thought they might know). “Sing it” they enthusiastically exclaimed and—be careful what you wish for—I sang it as loud as I could. (I’m thankful that I have it memorized!) It’s probably somewhere on the internet now. They are not used to Americans singing, so I think that it took them by surprise.
Then it was off to other things. As is common here in Indonesia, the next activity was a talent show of sorts. Each table sang a song or did a little skit. My group ended up singing Feliz Novidad. Kali’s sang Jiggle Bells. After all six tables had an opportunity to display their creativity and talents the winner was declared. It was table 6 and their skit of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus.
What is a Christmas party without a gift exchange! We did that too. Maybe some of you are familiar with it. Everyone stands in a circle and someone reads T’was the Night before Christmas and you have to pass your gift to the right or left every time you hear the words right or left. Eleanor and I received a teacup and saucer. Kali and Laurel received a reusable water bottle. Then we got to eat the cookies. This is what Laurel had been looking forward to all night. She helped Kali make our contribution of gingerbread cookies. I’ll let you guess which ones Laurel and Eleanor decorated.
I continue to be amazed and excited by the opportunities we have hear to talk about our faith. At least in Medan, religion is not a taboo or off limits subject. It’s common to ask about religion in a regular small talk conversation. We have such an opportunity to help people articulate their faith and proclaim clearly what Jesus has done.
“In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” 1 Peter 3:15