In Asia the bottom of your feet are considered the most lowly, dirtiest part of the body. To put your feet straight up with the bottoms facing other people is found offensive. Removing shoes as you enter a home, place of worship and some business is a sign of respect. And so this past Sunday worshipping bare foot, I felt a sense of freedom to draw near to God and worship. There's no fancy Christmas outfits, or exquisite orchestra to play music, there's not a stage with a fancy back drop, strobe lights; there's one woman leading worship for a group of 15 people (there's not ever a CD to sing along with) but for me worship was the most heart felt that it has been in a long time.
My favorite part of the Christmas season is attending Christmas services. The orchestra and the choir, bright lights and a special sermon. During this time when everything seems brighter and we are filled with joy as we celebrate Christmas with our loved ones we sometimes in the excitement of the bright lights, and beautiful music miss out on the most important part of the season- drawing near to God.
As you spend time with those near and dear to you; are you also taking a time out to remove your shoes and step into a holy place as Moses did when God spoke to Him from a burning bush? (Exodus 3:2-6)
No matter where your heart is with God this Christmas season I pray that you will take a time out and remember to draw to near to God.
Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. (James 4:8, 10 NIV)
Merry Christmas from Malaysia!!!
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