From the Priest-in-charge 22 January 2012
It is typical of Chinese New Year to be associated with animals; this year is the year of the Dragon in the ancient belief and practice. Chinese always call themselves as the descendants of the dragon. Dragon is a very important symbol for the Chinese because of its power, arrogance, control, origin, goodness, protection, leadership, majestic and etc. But there is confusion between the dragon in Chinese tradition and the Bible.
Here is what the world book tells us about the dragon. Dragon is a legendary beast in the folktale of many European and Asian cultures. Legends describe dragons as large, lizard like creatures that breath fire and have a long, scaly tail. In Europe, dragons are traditionally portrayed as a ferocious beast that represents the evil fought by human beings. But in Asia, especially in China and Japan, the animal is generally considered a friendly creature that brings good luck and wealth.
According to some medieval legends, dragons lived in wild, remote regions of the world. The dragons guarded treasures in their dens, and a person who killed one supposedly gained its wealth.
In China, the traditional Chinese New Year’s Day parade includes a group of people who wind through the streets wearing large dragon costumes. The dragon’s image, according to an ancient Chinese belief, prevents evil spirits from spoiling the New Year. Another Chinese belief is that certain dragons have the powers to control rainfalls needed for each year’s harvest and the legend goes on.
We, Christians will relate the dragon or the big snake in the Bible portrayed as a satanic symbol. We cannot live in ignorance that Christians will declare this year will be under the devil’s control. We may not want to talk about it, we may avoid it and we do not want to be associated with anything that has signs or stamp of a dragon on it. How about the tangerine inside the box? The Singapore ten dollar bill? The Dragon Air? Chinese pot with a dragon image? Even name with the word “Dragon”? Where is our Christian’s stand? I always believe the Holy Spirit inside of me is always bigger than the one outside. Our God is an Almighty God. I do not want us to be easily influenced by comments such as “you will live under curse” because of the dragon. We were given the gift of understanding from God. Do not live as if we are like the pagans. God has given us the Spirit of freedom and not of fear. Trust in the Lord and commit everything to Him. You will see this year will be a year of favour of the Lord
Diocese of Sabah Golden Jubilee – Logo Contest
Deadline for entries: 29th February 2012
Winner Prize : Apple Ipad 2 & Complimentary Jubilee Dinner Ticket
Diocesan English Youth Camp – DEYC 2012
Theme: My Faith Matters!
12th – 15th March 2012, St. Patrick’s Church (BSI Vision Secondary School, Tawau)
Registration Fee: RM80.00
Book Study: The Book of Jude
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