Life of the Party!
Written by a local believer

“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:18-20, NIV.

While riding around our city, we often see signs advertising, "Organ Tunggal.” Organ is a musical instrument similar to a keyboard. Tunggal means single or “the one and only.” It’s an advertisement for renting an electric keyboard that plays the drums, trumpet, violin, guitar and other instruments so it sounds like a full band playing.

Organ Tunggal businesses are often run out of someone's home. You can rent an organ, a player, and someone to sing for one price; a package deal! Usually these musicians are hired to liven up a celebration such as a wedding, birthday party, circumcision or other official event.

When the band begins to perform, neighbors and friends come and watch, with or without an invitation! Usually those watching will sing and dance along with the music. When they really like the performers they will slip money into their hands, usually between 1,000 to 10,000 Rp (the equivalent ten cents to a dollar)! The musicians are usually hired to perform for three to four hours, but sometimes they work as long as six hours - from dusk to dawn.

One of our neighbors, Mr. I.*, happens to own an Organ Tunggal business. According to Mr. I, those playing the organ and singing must drink beer so they can perform well. When there is not enough beer, they drink whiskey. When the whiskey runs out, they take an ecstasy pill. It is the responsibility of the person who hires the performer to supply the beer and whiskey. This practice is very sad.

Not only are the musicians drinking, but often the neighbors and friends drink as well. Almost always one or two people end up in the hospital after an event like this because so many people are drunk, which leads to arguments and fights where knives are drawn, and people stabbed.

*Name and location obscured for security and privacy.

Pray that:

People in Mr. I’s city will be drawn to Jesus and break free from drunkenness and fighting.

Organ Tunggal musicians will no longer need alcohol or drugs, but instead will sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to the glory of God.

Pacific Rim is a region of the International Mission Board, SBC.