An interesting discussion is going on in iBridge mailing list on the Malaysiakini report that the name of Jesus is informally 'banned' in govt-sponsored Christmas events... so Silent Night is a no-no
I agree that such event graced by our king and politicians is not an appropriate occassion to go all-out evangelistic or highlight our 'distinctives'... It's a great way to promote goodwill and the muhibah spirit with people of all faiths.
But why should the name of Jesus be excluded on His birthday? Why can't we treat Christmas as a celebration of a historical person's birth?
Why is Jesus' name banned in carols but you are allowed to use it as a swear-word on TV?
Some Christians think that the ban is fine, we should spread the message of love and not stand up for rights at this time.
But is there any message of Christmas love left if the name of Jesus can't even be mentioned?
Just watched polar express yesterday, it's a movie u go for an enjoyable ride and get some fuzzy good feeling... it's abt Christmas spirit and 'leap of faith' of course... plenty of elves and Santa Claus...
But is the name of Jesus even mentioned? Nope, whatever it is, it is not 'Christmas' in the biblical sense... it's not even a birthday of a historical person - prophet or otherwise.
I agree that such event graced by our king and politicians is not an appropriate occassion to go all-out evangelistic or highlight our 'distinctives'... It's a great way to promote goodwill and the muhibah spirit with people of all faiths.
But why should the name of Jesus be excluded on His birthday? Why can't we treat Christmas as a celebration of a historical person's birth?
Why is Jesus' name banned in carols but you are allowed to use it as a swear-word on TV?
Some Christians think that the ban is fine, we should spread the message of love and not stand up for rights at this time.
But is there any message of Christmas love left if the name of Jesus can't even be mentioned?
Just watched polar express yesterday, it's a movie u go for an enjoyable ride and get some fuzzy good feeling... it's abt Christmas spirit and 'leap of faith' of course... plenty of elves and Santa Claus...
But is the name of Jesus even mentioned? Nope, whatever it is, it is not 'Christmas' in the biblical sense... it's not even a birthday of a historical person - prophet or otherwise.
Comments
If the ban is true, it reaffirms the worsening lack of religious understanding in our country. It's like asking us to celebrate Hari Raya because of Britney Spearce or Chinese New Year according to the Gregorian calendar. The facts are just wrong sir!
I'm interested to find out the 'official' Christian stand on this. My vote's to also 'unofficially' ban Christians from attending. I'd rather go for Polar Express...hehe...
"That's how it is over here, man"!