Bathing the Keris

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.”
1 Corinthians 4:20, NIV.

The Keris is a knife with a straight or wavy blade. The first Keris is believed to have originated on the island of Java, Indonesia and is popular all over Southeast Asia. Many families in Indonesia and Malaysia have at least one Keris as a family possession. It used to be that one Keris would be worn ceremonially by every male, like part of the dress code. Some believe that certain Keris hold occult power. One family in Aceh holds to this belief. The family had an old Keris that was a family heirloom. The father claimed that the knife had healing power.

Then the tsunami hit the family home and all their possessions were swept away. The only possession that remained was the Keris. When they found the box holding the blade, the family believed that the Keris had again demonstrated supernatural power. Since the tsunami, the family carefully bathes the Keris with flower water every day. They believe that the spirit in the Keris will bless and protect their family as a reward for their loving devotion shown in caring for the knife.

This family is also devoted to Islam, but they see no contradiction in following their Muslim faith while also seeking power from other spiritual forces. Seeking occult powers is a deeply held part of culture and life in Aceh.

Pray that:

The superior power of Christ’s Spirit will be clearly demonstrated before the people of Aceh.

Spiritual strongholds like this family’s devotion to a knife will be overcome by the power of love and the freedom found only in Jesus.

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