Our family has spent more Christmases in countries which don't widely celebrate Christmas than in the United States. Because of this, celebrations of our Saviour's birth are more special and keeping Christmas in our home is more precious to us. This is our first Christmas in Tha Sala and with Grace of God Church. Sunday was our church family Christmas party, and I'm willing to bet you've never been to a party quite like this.
It started out as a mostly normal Sunday. I helped teach Children's Sunday School, telling the story of Jesus' birth. We sang "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" with the last line changed to "and a blessing from God." Because Thailand does not traditionally celebrate Christmas, Thai churches tend to accept all Christmas traditions as celebrating Jesus' birth. The church was decorated with decorated trees, stockings, and miniature Santas. The worship team and many other wore red "Santa" hats. Despite the mixed decor, there was no confusion about the reason for the holiday: a birthday cake for Jesus held a prominent place. We sang Christmas carols and then "Happy Birthday, Jesus."
I didn't get to listen to the sermon due to a wild two year old (too many pre-church sweets from the old ladies Calla knows to beg from). Lunch included special fried chicken, sweet drinks, and birthday cake. Then it was party time. We started with some songs, including a Thai version of "Jingle Bell Rock" which had a line about celebrating Jesus' birth. Next we were challenged with some games. The American kids went up against some Thai kids for "telephone." Since the teams were each given a tongue twister in their non-native tongue, both teams came up with nonsense. "She sells seashells by the seashore" became "I'm sorry, mikadu." The Thai phrase was simplified to "naam nom noi" (something like water milk please).
The gift exchange brought out the silly side of the church members. I had thought that Thais might be reluctant to "steal" gifts from others, but once the pastor started it, many people got in on the fun. Everyone expressed childlike excitement as each package was opened and people snatched rice cookers and sateen comforters from friends. I brought home a giant Mickey Mouse pillow for the kids, Philip took an electric iron, and my dad ended up with a Pickachu backpack.
The afternoon ended with Thai dancing. Tables were lined up in the center of the room, and everyone dancing around them single file. I noticed the elderly ladies and young girls were most conscientious about performing the proper hand motions and mincing steps. Calla kept walking around and around the tables; she was so tired, she had to hold on the tables to keep from falling over. Finally, I scooped her up, and it was time to go home. Merry Christmas from Thailand!
Next Sunday, our church is having a community outreach, including the kids performing a Christmas Pageant. We have invited some friends, and other church members are inviting friends and family. Please pray that many will hear the story of Christmas and realize that it is for them, not just foreigners.
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