Glorifying God Amidst Khmer Songkran

This week, Cambodia is preparing for one of its grandest celebrations—Khmer New Year, known as Songkran. Across the country, schools, businesses, and establishments are gearing up for this vibrant and deeply cultural event. Streets will be adorned with colorful decorations, traditional games will bring communities together, and families will gather to share in the joy of the new year.

As a university lecturer, I always look forward to how our students take part in this celebration. Every year, our foundation students lead a program that showcases Khmer culture, village life, and traditional games. This year, it will be a full-day event, with classes canceled to make way for the festivities. Small businesses and vendors—many of them student-led—will fill the campus, offering snacks, street food, photo booths, merchandise, and more. Fashion students will even present their creations on the runway, with models coming from different departments. I have been invited to give a speech before the fashion show, and I am excited to witness their creativity.

With my talented students who performed the Apsara blessing dance

At home, my son David is also preparing for Songkran at his school. He and his classmates have been rehearsing the "Madison dance" and will be wearing traditional clothes and scarves for their performance. Though I may not be able to watch him perform due to final exams, my heart is filled with joy knowing that he is experiencing and embracing the culture around him.

David's Songkran 3 years ago! look how small he was 😅💓

At church, our celebration takes a slightly different form. Since many of us travel back to our homelands during the official Songkran holiday, we usually have an early or late celebration with our church family. We eat together, share in fellowship, and even play traditional games. My husband, Vandy, usually tries to avoid dancing, but I love seeing everyone participate in the joy of the occasion.

Yet, in the midst of all the excitement, I am reminded of the words in 1 Corinthians 10:31—

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

How do we celebrate in a way that glorifies God? How do we enjoy traditions while remaining faithful to our calling as believers? These are questions I find myself reflecting on as we enter this season of celebration. Here are five truths from this verse that we can apply during Songkran and beyond.

1. God’s Glory Should Be at the Center of Everything We Do

Songkran is a time of joy, renewal, and community, but as believers, we must remember that every part of our lives—including our celebrations—should bring glory to God. Whether we are playing traditional games, preparing food, or engaging in cultural festivities, our hearts should be set on honoring Him.

Glorifying God does not mean withdrawing from cultural celebrations but rather participating with a heart that reflects His goodness. It means engaging in ways that shine His light, being mindful of our words, actions, and the way we treat others.

Reflection: As I join in Songkran activities at school and church, I ask myself: Am I glorifying God in my conversations? In my attitude? In my interactions with students and colleagues?

2. Celebration Should Be an Expression of Gratitude

Songkran marks the beginning of a new year, a fresh start. It is a time for purification and reflection. As Christians, we can use this as an opportunity to reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout the past year and to thank Him for His provisions, protection, and guidance.

Rather than just going through the motions of tradition, we can pause to recognize God’s hand in our lives and offer our gratitude in prayer and thanksgiving.

Reflection: Before the festivities begin, let us take time to thank God. Whether it’s through a simple prayer before a meal or a moment of reflection, let gratitude be the foundation of our celebration.

3. Our Joy Should Be Rooted in Christ, Not Just in Tradition

Songkran is a time of happiness, but our ultimate joy should not come from events, traditions, or cultural practices. While these things bring temporary happiness, true and lasting joy is found in Christ.

The world often finds joy in external things—festivals, gifts, material possessions—but as believers, we are reminded that our greatest joy comes from our relationship with Jesus. This joy is not dependent on circumstances but on the unchanging love of our Savior.

Reflection: Amidst all the fun, let’s remember that our joy is not just in the activities but in the presence of God in our lives.

4. We Are Called to be Distinct While Remaining Respectful

As Christians living in Cambodia, we are immersed in a culture rich with traditions, many of which have spiritual and religious significance. It is important to participate with wisdom, ensuring that we do not compromise our faith while also respecting the culture we live in.

For example, Songkran includes traditional ceremonies and offerings, which may not align with our faith. While we can enjoy the cultural aspects—such as playing games, enjoying food, and celebrating with our friends—we must remain mindful of what we engage in spiritually.

Reflection: Let us celebrate with discernment, ensuring that our participation is respectful but also remains true to our faith.

5. Our Actions Should Reflect Christ to Those Around Us

Songkran is a time when many people are open, joyful, and receptive. This is a perfect opportunity to show Christ’s love through our actions. Whether through kindness, generosity, or simply the way we conduct ourselves, we can be a reflection of Jesus in the way we celebrate.

One of the best ways to glorify God is by being a light to others. If we interact with respect, love, and grace, people will see something different in us—something that points them to God.

Reflection: This Songkran, let’s look for ways to be a blessing to others. Whether it’s through a kind word, helping someone, or simply showing patience and love, let’s be intentional in reflecting Christ.

How Can We Celebrate Differently?

1. Celebrate with Intentional Gratitude – Take time to thank God before meals, before gatherings, and at the start of the new year.

2. Be a Witness Through Your Actions – Demonstrate kindness, patience, and love in all interactions.

3. Be Mindful of Cultural and Spiritual Differences – Enjoy the celebration while staying true to your faith.

4. Encourage Others to Reflect on the New Year’s Deeper Meaning – Start conversations about renewal, fresh starts, and the blessings of God.

5. Pray for Cambodia – As the country seeks UNESCO recognition for Songkran 2025, pray that this would also be an opportunity for Cambodians to encounter Christ. 

   

A Prayer for Songkran

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this time of celebration and joy. As Cambodia gathers to welcome a new year, may we, as Your children, glorify You in all that we do. Let our hearts be filled with gratitude, our actions reflect Your love, and our lives be a testimony of Your grace. Help us to be mindful of how we celebrate, ensuring that everything we do brings honor to You. May this Songkran be a time of renewal not just for tradition but for our faith as well.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

As we celebrate Songkran, let us remember 1 Corinthians 10:31 and seek to glorify God in every aspect of our lives. May our joy be a witness to others, and may our actions lead people to see the beauty of Christ in us.

Happy Songkran!

The Hourngs