While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
I have had a wonderful day celebrating the birth of Jesus here in Karachi. In a packed cathedral, we sang carols and listen to the Bishop as he reminded us of the real meaning of Christmas that God came into the world in the form of a baby to save us from the mess we had made of our lives.
From church I made my way to Kathy and Zulfi’s where a delicious feast was laid out and mulled wine and home made mince pies a plenty.
From there I headed to Judith and Bunny’s for Christmas dinner proper. There were 15 for dinner, representing the UK, the USA, Pakistan, Russia and Burma! A spicy prawn salad was followed by Roast Turkey and all the trimmings, including bread sauce (by my special request). This was followed by a fantastic chocolate trifle. At this point in keeping with Pakistani customs many of the guests moved on to their next stop!!
The six of us remaining had coffee and Christmas cake and whilst we chatting, Bunny got his guitar out and treated us to some Urdu and English songs, which was lovely.
I am now home with all the candles lit on my Advent Crown and the Holy Family and the Shepherds and Magi (they have arrived a few days early as I will be in Kijabe on Epiphany) surrounding the manger in adoration of the Christ child.
I have been reflecting over the last few weeks and I really do consider myself as truly blessed. I have a job I love, with great students and supportive staff. And for reasons I can’t quite explain I love Karachi. With all its faults and failings, I really do love living here. So a very happy and content Michael, would like to wish you all, Bara dyn Mubarak, awr bwhat kushi neya sal (Happy Christmas, and a very happy new year). It looks like I could be here for a few years to come…
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