Ever hear the song “Ill be home for Christmas” and openly weep giant man tears? Yea, me neither. Not only is this my first Christmas away from home (and all the hot cider, goofy sweater, candy filled stocking goodness that accompanies that), but it is also my first Christmas in a completely unfamiliar place that for the most part could not care less about celebrating Immanuel. There are few Christians here, but all that means is that when we do get together to celebrate the Lord’s birth, the pressure is on to do it right…no slacking. I’ve already learned and experienced many things during my first weeks overseas, including what Christmas looks like so far from the West. So below you’ll find my beginner’s guide to getting in the Christmas Spirit in the Middle East:
First, take a deep breath and wipe that fresh layer of sweat from your brow; actually, go ahead and get your elbow and knee pits too. This is an initial and crucial step, because now when a breeze catches you just right, you’ll almost feel a December chill.
Next, don’t forget to leave your shoes at the door, this is the Middle East after all, find a spot on the ground cushion, and pick a key to sing in. Seriously, any key, you can even change it mid song, everyone else will! Also, do not forget to sing loud to drown out the traffic noise, chants issuing from the nearby mosque, and the angry goat next door.
Third, rejoice! Despite the absence all the Christmas quirks I am accustomed to in the West, the core of Christmas is still here because it is universally true! There are still glad tidings unto all men, and the King has really come. Even as we sing carols in July like humidity, I am overwhelmed at the goodness of a Savior in the flesh. It moves my heart, encourages my spirit…and even makes it feel a lot like Christmas. Merry Christmas to all who welcome the rescuer.
“He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove the Glories of his righteousness, and wonders of his love, the wonders of his love!”