Let your light shine

The chanting of the monks at our village temple just across the street had been going on all day. Now the drums started beating, too. This was the second day of chanting. I hear the drums twice daily, once in the early hours of the morning and once at around 4pm. For me, they serve to mark time but also as my personal call to prayer. Prayer for Jesus' light to shine in this darkness.

I asked my house helper what the occasion was and she said it was the Festival of Bread. People bring rice, bread, and other offerings to the temple for their deceased loved ones, so that they do not go hungry. And the spirits are appeased.

Several months later it is the beginning of Buddhist Lent. During the next few weeks, there will be no weddings or parties. Again the chanting can be heard throughout the day. I watch my neighbor return from the temple. She is wearing a beautiful sinh (traditional skirt) with an intricately embroidered sash across her shoulder. She is carrying the silver bowl with which she brought her offerings to the temple. As a woman, she may not pass items on to the monks directly.

The 4 o'clock drums pick up their rhythmic beating as I hang up our laundry to dry in the hot sun. 'Jesus, show yourselves to those who are seeking you. Help us be your hands and feet, help us carry your light into this darkness.'

Will you pray with me?