What is China famous for? Pandas and lanterns. There might be a few more things but . . . Even though pandas are not roaming free everywhere you turn, they are famous in the city of Chengdu. I visited there earlier this year and now Chengdu has come to visit me in Wuhan. But, they didn't bring real pandas. They brought giant lanterns, some in the shape of pandas. Out on the gorgeous East Lake were giant floating spectacles. They came all the way from Chengdu, a traveling show of sorts. Lots of lanterns, a Chinese staple. These red lanterns are everywhere you look. Some are put up for festivals and never come down. The Chinese hope they will bring good luck to the house or place of business. If you were to take a gander around here, you would more than likely find a red lantern dotting the landscape.
This little get-together with friends was another wonderful cultural experience: lots of food options, lots of people, and lots of curious stares directed at the foreigners. The food choices were anything from your typical noodles and rice to some stinky tofu, barbecue (meat on a stick), chicken feet, rabbit head, or fried anything. I didn't go too wild with my food selections but still enjoyed the wide variety of foods. The rest of the time was spent walking around the park and snapping some pics. I've included some of the many different luminous displays from this past weekend. It was a great night to spend with friends and enjoy the nice weather.
Another evening many years ago, some friends were also meeting. They met behind locked doors because they were afraid. Suddenly, He came in and was among them saying, "Peace be with you!" With all of the strange things that had happened very early that morning, their Friend was there again and they were overjoyed. He is risen, just as he said! He is risen indeed! Now we can experience the joy of knowing the Son before our joy is made complete in the presence of the Lamb around his glorious throne. Death has been swallowed up in victory! It holds us no more! Where he has gone we too shall be!
