Easter in Southeast Asia

This year Easter looked a lot different for me than years past. There are not a single bunny or eggs to be seen, unless you are eating them... I'm kind of okay with that too. Such a refreshing thing to experience a time that we are so familiar with in a different way. The great thing about it is that although my surroundings may be different, my God is the same! Hebrews 13:8.

The sun was rising as we drove from the island to church. What a great picture and a great time to reflect on the true Son that is risen. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. 

We celebrated communion during the service. I love being able to do this with brothers & sisters on the other side of the world. Matthew 26:26-29. 

Some of the songs that we sang were different, but some were the same. We sang one of my favorites, "Christ Is Risen" by Matt Maher. It warmed my heart to hear it and sing along with my Southeast Asian brothers & sisters. Here are some of the lyrics...

"Christ is risen from the dead

  We are one with Him again.

  Come awake, come awake!

  Come and rise up from the grave.

  

  Oh death! Where is your sting?

  Oh Hell! Where is your victory?

  Oh Church! Come stand in the light!

  The glory of God has defeated the night!"

Besides great praise and worship, I had the privilege of going to see a friend preach this morning. Although Easter did look different, the gospel presented in my friend's sermon is the same. We were treated to two different lunches today. Completely different "Easter-type" food than what I am used to, but it was so good!

We had a global meal with the church. We had some Chinese, Indian and even some American food. The American food was chicken salad sandwiches. Haven't had it since I got here and it was really good!

While we were eating the first meal, the pastor inited us out to eat as well. This was some of the spiciest Indian food that I have ever had. It's called Banana Leaf. They place different vegetables and meat on a banana leaf. Pretty original name for a dish if you ask me... And yes, we went "hands-on" for this meal. Reminded me of my two trips to India. 

Lastly, I wanted to share Isaiah 53:5-6. "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.  All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; 
and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all." Hallelujah, what a Savior!