Tis The Season
I haven’t blogged recently about Indonesia’s culture, so it is time to do that. As the holiday approaches it is very interesting to see all the Christmas decorations out – clearly nothing like the US. But, still surprising to see decorations, advertisements, and sales. But, this is still a pre-dominantly muslim country (85-95% by most estimates). As I drive to work in the morning, I have seen a number of small pens that contain goats, cows, and who knows what else. These are animals that are for sale – they will be sold and then slaughtered as a sacrifice. As I think about what I see, I can’t help but remember that Jesus Christ was the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and we are no longer bound by the law, but by grace.
Regarding the benevolence activity we are going to do during the holidays, that is coming together quite well. We are definitely going to an orphanage of about 25 kids. We will bring backpacks with supplies and snacks; shoes (at the request of the manager); and I think some other personal things for the kids (I can’t remember and Decy has the list). Then we will donate food. We will also have lunch with the children and play some games.
In addition to the above we will go to three widow/widower’s homes and deliver some food.
With regards to the orphanage, Decy personnally visited two. The first one was a Christian one. The place was neat, tidy, everything was in order. They were clearly sponsored by others. The woman, regrettably, was arrogant and rude (Decy dressed down for the occassion as she doesn’t want to signal how much money she has). While Decy was trying to explain what we were wanting to do – the woman wouldn’t even stop doing her paperwork to look at Decy. She told Decy that she knew best what was for the children and we should just give her the money.
We went to a second orphanage. One that just accidently came into being as children collected. A man who is a motorcycle taxi driver (ojek) just happened to fall into this job. They don’t have a building to house the 25 kids, but one is being built and should be ready in another 6 months. The man and the children are using a local mosque … and yes, the association is muslim. Decy has been in progressive discussions with this man – which she happens to have known for 20 years … as she (and Chely / Thasya) have used his “taxi services” many years ago. The orphanage is being built probably only 100 meters from our house in Ciputat.
As Decy visited with the gentleman, it was clear they needed help and would appreciate ANYTHING. After we discussed the situation internally (Decy and I) she went back to the gentlemen and gave him more details. We don’t think he fully understands we are talking about a “bule” (American) family wanting to help – but he does know we are Christian. I don’t have time to write down all that he said … but basically, the response was – we are all brothers and they would be honored to accept the gifts.
As I think thru this – I feel very comfortable with what we are doing. Jesus said to reach out to the lost. What better way to spend Christmas – but to be doing what Jesus taught us to do … to give to others … especially those who were lost. Children are children … they need love, hope, security … their hugs and smiles are all the same …. and the hearts we will touch will receive what we have to give.
Need to take care of some things.
Ciao ciao
