All the CGs were grouped into pairs for the presentation of the evening. Shekinah paired with Grace and formed a new CG called "Ezra". We presented a medley of songs starting with our theme song "Jin Jia Ho" in Hokkien, Mandarin and Cantonese. It was followed by a contemporary rendition entitled "Oh, Jesus" sung to the golden oldie tune of "Oh, Carol". The group members were dressed in black T-shirts and wore sunglasses. Despite a false start, the presentation went largely according to plan and most important of all, we had loads of fun! The last song in the medley was "He", sung solo by Uncle Edwin, while the rest of the group members brought props across the stage, each prop giving meaning to the verses in the song.
The creativity of all the CGs really amazed everybody. There was no end to the laughter when another group presented a sketch with the members portraying all kinds of characters including some shady ones. They were really "sporting"; usually solemn and resolute but in the sketch, they gave their heart to make their characters come to life! The story was of course about how a group of Christians brought people who were neglected by society to the Lord Jesus. These include drunkards, drug addicts, elderly and sickly folks.
Another sketch revolved around "Ah Beng" who lost all his business and money. He resorted to financial assistance provided by "Alongnathan" with dire consequences. He felt miserable and was desperate -- the walls were closing in on him. He could not breathe, he felt trapped, he had no where to turn. There was only one way out, or so he thought. As he stood on the cliff, ready to plunge into the depths of the ocean to end all his troubles, who should appear but "Mr & Mrs Jin Jia Ho" -- a senior Christian couple who persuaded him to come down from the cliff and showed him the Truth which set "Ah Beng" free. Coincidentally, this CG also sang the song "Jin Jia Ho" which our CG spontaneously provided the back up voices and echoes from the pews!
How could we end the night and not have a traditional Malaysian item presented? Not "dikir barat" or "gamelan" but it was none other than "wayang kulit"! The direct translation is "skin movie" but actually, it was more of a shadow play. A spot light shone brightly against a white piece of cloth, casting a shadow whenever an object appeared between the light and the screen. A story unfurled about two neighbours who were at odds end with each other. Though they were Christians and attended church regularly, their unChristian-like behaviour made them quarrel often, sometimes over petty things like "sharing the neighbour's rubbish bin when yours is full". In the end, they were reconciled peacefully by the love of God. The presentation ended aptly with the song "Love in every language".
The night ended earlier and Uncle Edwin, the master of ceremony, candidly invited anyone who wanted to present an extra item to go up on stage. Of course, there were no takers. We already had too much of fun and laughter for our bellies to handle. Pastor closed with a prayer and we, the Shekinah CG, adjourned to a coffee-shop for a drink and more fellowship. Nichol amused us with her riddles and puzzles, some of which I was sure were made up impromptu.
Before midnight, we departed for a good night's rest at our respective homes.
Kuan
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