Christmas Message 2021 - "May His Presence Be The Greatest Gift..." Ms. Elaine Sung

"As Christmas comes around and buying presents may take center stage; may I humbly suggest the gift of your presence (pun intended) to those dear to you..."

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Reflections for Christmas 2021

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“So this is Christmas, and what have you done?” sings Celine Dion.  Given this privilege by Andy to pen an article, it’s a good opportunity to reflect on 2021.  Perhaps a handful may have read my Easter article in this blog; if you have not, I’m sure it’s found in the archives (hint hint ;p).* This reflection continues my learning journey…

Post Easter, life continues to be impacted by COVID.  But more significantly, by another “c”- a dear family member’s diagnosis of stage 2 cancer. ☹  It was on Maundy Thursday when we collected the routine health report from the clinic.  Much to our surprise, a marker flagged something amiss and the full impact of it did not unravel till weeks after Easter as we ran tests after tests while dealing with the initial denial and fear of the unknown. 

I have to say this has been the biggest game-changer in my life by far.  Where is God when one is hit by a crisis (another “c”!)?  Thankful I have Christ (the big “C”!) who has been my anchor thorough it all. Though assured of His good purpose for it to happen, I had my share of questioning and lamenting.  It does not help that this family member is a fairly new Christian.  How do I respond to “why me” questions without sounding insensitive? What words of comfort can I offer when the pain brings a torrent of tears? What wisdom can I offer when the team of doctors are tweaking medication to address post operation pain? This brings me back to the start of my article, “what have I done?”  Many things have been scaled back not because of COVID measures, but because of being part of the care-giving team.  On hindsight, I see how God lead me out of a teaching role so I would have more time to spend with this family member.  Indeed, it’s a luxury to have time to just be around, not doing very much, but just being present.  To be present to help with physical mobility. To be present to catch priceless flashback moments of joys and regrets.  To be present to address questions like “who is there in heaven?”, “heaven so big, how will we find each other?” (I hasten to add I don’t have all the answers!). To be present to catch that tear, that painful cringe. To be present to pray.  To be present for the rest of family dealing with this crisis in their own ways.

& PRESENCE

As Christmas comes around and buying presents may take center stage; may I humbly suggest the gift of your presence (pun intended) to those dear to you.  One which money cannot buy and which only you can afford.  The Bible states in Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven”, may we steward time and the different seasons of our life wisely.  Incidentally, these wise words can be found in the song “Turn, Turn, Turn” by The Byrds.

Matthew 1:23 “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel – which means, “God with us”.  May His presence be the greatest gift you will receive.  

Blessed Christmas to all.

Thanks to Ms. Elaine Sung

for her reflections. 

*From the archives:

https://singapore60smusic.blogspot.com/2021/04/reflections-for-good-friday-2021-ms.html

https://singapore60smusic.blogspot.com/2020/04/reflections-for-good-friday-2020-elaine.html

https://singapore60smusic.blogspot.com/2019/04/good-friday-took-on-new-meaning-ms.html

'Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel' - Enya 

YouTube Video from An Ghaoth Aniar.

Celine Dion - 'Happy Christmas [War is Over]'

An official Celine Dion YouTube video.

Images - Google.