May I Be The First

As I go about life each day in my city, I am CONSTANTLY reminded of the darkness that prevails here. It is everywhere, in the sights, the smells, the noises that continuously bombard me. But, this morning, I was also reminded of the powerful light that forever shines in this darkness. Although the percentage of believers compared to non-believers in my city is almost undetected, those that do profess HIM as Savior and Lord, do so with great boldness and faith….much greater than I have ever observed before in any of my former life experiences. I feel humbled to live and to serve beside the believers here. It is my privilege to be their friend and co-laborer.

Today, Rita* (a local sister and friend) shared this personal story with me:
This past week, Rita needed to attend the funeral of her younger sister’s father-in-law. Her younger sister married into a very large and strict Buddhist family. Rita's younger sister is the lowest member of the family due to the fact that she has only produced one daughter. So, Rita wanted to support her sister by attending this funeral. She did not, however, want to participate in any of the rituals associated with the Buddhist religion….bowing, burning incense, etc. So, before attending, she asked for Father’s help.
During the ceremony, Rita was beckoned to the front of the hall to participate fully. Immediately, she called out silently for Father’s help. At that moment, she noticed her elder sister standing toward the back of the large room, and she went to join her. Because Rita was now standing in the back, she did not have to participate.
Then, Rita's elder sister went forward to join a famous Buddhist choir in presenting special songs for the occasion. My friend wept as her elder sister lifted her voice in this manner. My friend, Rita, silently in her heart, sang hymns to the True Creator, Sustainer, and Giver of Eternal Life. Afterwards, one of her cousins came forward to praise her elder sister for a job well done.
Later that evening, Rita went home and wrote out her Last Will and Testament. In it, she begged her family members to honor her wishes and to provide a Christian funeral for her when her time comes. In her prayers that night, she also pleaded with Father to allow her to be the first person in her family to die. Rita is willing to die first so that all of her family members can hear the TRUTH at her funeral and be given the chance to accept it at least once in their lifetimes.
Through tearful sobs, I tried to recount this story to Jack. He thought I should share it with you. Please remember our sisters and brothers here on a daily basis. Their commitment to HIM is a living example to our family. May they have many opportunities to share HIStory with their families and friends. And, may each of you take the opportunities HE so freely gives you to share with your family and friends.

(These photos are typical of the worship practices in our city. They are NOT from an actual funeral ceremony. *Rita's name had been changed.)