The Jakarta sky still held a lingering cloud when the 2025 National Christmas Committee (Panat) group entered the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI) building on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. There were no cheers, no grand stage. All that remained was a silence filled with simple conversations, gazes filled with concern, and a longing that was slowly being nurtured: that God's Word would truly be present, a comforting comfort to those hurt by the disaster.

It was in the Bible Center Building that the commitment was solidified. The 2025 National Christmas Committee declared its support for the procurement of 30,000 Bibles, a continuation of the social action that was part of the 2025 National Christmas Celebration. These Bibles were planned to reach disaster survivors, those who not only lost their homes and possessions but also needed the strengthening of their faith to continue living.

The Minister of Housing and Settlements, who is also the Chair of the 2025 National Christmas Committee, Maruarar Sirait, conveyed this commitment clearly and firmly. "So, we came to order 30,000 Bibles. Those have been prepared," he said, emphasizing the importance of clarity on design, distribution, and implementation timelines to ensure this aid reaches those in need.

For him, sharing blessings is not just a matter of good intentions, but a responsibility that must be fulfilled with integrity.

"Once a decision has been made, don't hold back. Don't hold back good deeds, especially for our brothers and sisters in need," he emphasized.

The National Christmas Committee's visit to the Indonesian Bible Society was more than just a ceremonial event. On that occasion, the group was invited to see firsthand the journey of Bible ministry in Indonesia, from the educational museum to hearing stories about the Bible that people in remote areas have been waiting for decades. Addressing the guests, the Indonesian Bible Society's General Secretary, Dr. Sigit Triyono, emphasized that the Bible is not just a book, but a living source of faith for the people.

"We once sent a Bible to one area. A man cried with emotion as he hugged it because he had been waiting for it for 20 years. But he cried again because he couldn't read," he said softly.

This story serves as a reminder that bringing the Word also means bringing hope—even amidst limitations.

The National Christmas Committee's commitment to 2025 does not stand alone. It is rooted in the 2025 National Christmas theme, “God Is Present to Save Families” (Matthew 1:21–24). This theme finds its most concrete meaning precisely when God's Word is presented to struggling families, scattered by natural disasters, and struggling to rebuild their lives.

The 2025 National Christmas celebration itself took place on Monday, January 5, 2025, at the Tennis Indoor Senayan, Jakarta. Approximately 3,000 honored guests attended the celebration. The presence of the President of the Republic of Indonesia at this celebration is an important sign that the state is paying attention and giving space to religious diversity and recognizing the role of faith in building national resilience.

However, the spirit of National Christmas does not stop at the celebration stage. Through the support of this Bible procurement, the Christmas message is translated into concrete action. The printed, prayed, and distributed Words bear witness that God's love does not remain mere discourse, but becomes an embrace for those who grieve.

The Indonesian Christian Association (LAI) welcomes this commitment with joy. With extensive experience in Bible distribution, including to disaster-affected areas, LAI ensures that every Bible is distributed through its network of churches and local partners, ensuring it reaches the right people. "If the National Committee approves, we will be very happy. Some can be distributed through LAI, both in disaster areas and in remote areas where it is truly needed," said Dr. Sigit.

In a world often overwhelmed by loss figures and disaster statistics, this story reminds us that recovery also requires words of encouragement. Thirty thousand Bibles may seem like a mere number, but for those who receive them, each Bible is a sign that they have not been forgotten.

That is where Christmas finds its longest echo: when God, present in history, continues to reveal His presence through hands willing to share, and through a Word that faithfully strengthens His people—even amidst the ruins.