KUCHING (Dec 24): The Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) has called on the people not to give value to those who are out to ridicule or put others down.
In a statement, ACS chairman the Rt Rev Datuk Danald Jute, who is Bishop of the Anglican Church in Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam, said this Christmas everyone should do their part to contribute towards a worthy and just future.
“We must not give any value to those who are out to ridicule or put others down. Their intention is only to cause division and dissension. Unity is precious! It is like a flower struggling to blossom on the stony ground of mistrust and suspicion.
“However, we know that there is plenty of goodness in each one of us. All of us can and ought to contribute even a little pebble for the building of a towering and united community and nation. Let us do it, even simply by visiting one another for each other’s Open House,” he said in a statement today.
He stressed that Christmas is a season of hope, joy, peace, and love to remember, commemorate, and celebrate God’s goodness and great mercy.
“We remember how God fulfilled His promise of old in the birth of His Son Jesus, the Saviour of the world! This Jesus is the reason for this season. There is no Christmas without Christ!
“As Christians, we should not keep the joyful celebration to ourselves because Christmas is for all.
“Remember, God sent his Son Jesus because God ‘so loved the world’. God has our best interest in mind. As Christians, we must be the best we can be as citizens for a better Sarawak and Malaysia. We are called to be a blessing and to give and do the best we possibly can to the community around us,” said Danald.
He pointed out while celebrating God’s greatest gift, the people should be aware that many around the world and closer to home are needy and hungry, tired and anxious, sick and dying, as well as mourning the loss of loved ones.
“Let us embrace the spirit of compassion and generosity by reaching out to them and share the blessings that God has bestowed upon us,” he said.
Danald pointed out that on Dec 21, Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi joined a Christmas High Tea organised by ACS here.
“This was a momentous occasion, whereby the Head of State joined in the Christmas celebration along with representatives from the various religious groups.
“Likewise, we applaud the inclusive and visionary leadership and policy of our state government, under the leadership of YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. All these make us prouder as Sarawakians!” he said.
He also quoted the Bible from John 3:16: “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”