Fledgling Duck To A Flamboyant Swan

God of this City

2008-08-07T12:42:00.001+08:00

God of This City - BlueTree (adapted by Chris Tomlin)

You're the God of this city
You're the King of these people
You're the Lord of this nation
You Are

For there is no one like our God
There is no one like our God

Greater things have yet to come
Great things are still to be done
In this city
Greater things are still to come
And greater things are still to be done here

You're the Lord of Creation
The Creator of all things
You're the King above all Kings
You Are

You're the strength in our weakness
You're the love to the broken
You're the joy in the sadness
You Are

Greater things have yet to come
Great things are still to be done
In this city
Where glory shines from hearts alive
With praise for you and love for you
In this city

Greater things have yet to come
Great things are still to be done
In this city
Greater things are still to come
And greater things are still to be done here

From Duck to Swan

Signing out at 1.03pm - 7th August 2008

To write or To turn away

2008-04-17T17:21:00.000+08:00

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights. —James 1:17

Recently I've being going through a hard time assessing the gifts given by God to me. I was having serious doubts about the gifting that I've received through the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. I was wondering why were these Gifts given if it is not being utilized at all. My doubts were so serious that I wanted to let it go or just bury it since its not being needed and just move on with life as it is. (sounds familiar? - Parable of the Talents; Matthew 25:14-30) perhaps the context could be a little different however the results is the same if I would just bury it and move on with life. Perhaps Idleness have led me to all these with the added impetus from me being such an active person that always have to be on the go. What's describe me best is like a blade that has been left in the sheath for a long time where the edge between the blade and the hilt has rusted. It takes more effort to unsheathe a rusted blade.

My dear readers, its time I lay my pen down. I'm dry.
I just want to take time and ponder upon the verse that's above.
To be able to truly discover and understand that whatever that has been given
Is good and is perfect as it comes from God.

Thanks for journeying with me through my adventures. If you are with me.
Commit me unto the gracious hands of our Savior. Till these hands should move the pen again.
Perhaps it could be today, tomorrow or days to come. Yet my confidence is in Him and I know that these hands will be moved once again by Him to hold the pen and write.

From Duck to Swan
Signed Out
April 2008

Child-like Faith

2008-03-28T15:04:00.000+08:00

There is one thing that I hate the most in life; Routine! Someone once told me that working is a form of “life imprisonment” or at least the term serves up to the age of 55 years old. When a person steps into the working world, he/she would have to take another step to maturity. It depends on how big or how small the step is. Nevertheless, the step still needs to be taken. The boy will grow up to be a man and the girl will grow to be a lady. There are those who are eager to spread their wings and leave the nest. They are just too eager to get to the working world to get the opportunity to earn their own wages and to have a total “control” over their own life or at least in the terms of “financial independence”. Whereas there are those on the other end of the pendulum. People like me, it is quite an oxymoron as I do have the love to do what I do in my work but yet there are times I dread going to work. However, over time this routine life has taken a toll over me. Time has become an important factor for me. Time is of essence. It does not only take a toll on my physical state yet it does indirectly affect my spirituality. When we are all grown up and assuming that we are already an adult our ego level tend to grow proportionately with our age. The older we get, the bigger our heads become.

Jesus once said that if we would want to enter the kingdom of Heaven then we should have faith like children. Don’t you realize that the older we get the more skeptical we become and the less faith we have? We ought to think more on the realistic perspective and the possible outcome of each action. Unlike when we were much younger we were much bolder in our actions and do not have much regard for the consequence of any decision taken, as the saying goes “Brawns more than Brains”. Sometimes, it’s our pride that prevents us from seeking the Lord or sometimes it’s just that we don’t believe that He is able to anything. Our problems or doubts may be too great for God to understand. Well, that a look at the nature. Do you understand the wonders of the sky? The anatomy of the birds? The phenomenal effects of the storm? The depths of the earth? You and I may not truly comprehend but He knows the inside out of everything. Or there may questions that blind your eyes and your thoughts? Why the death? Why the loss? Where is the justice? Once again, You and I may not know the reasons behind these questions but yet He knows.

Perhaps it’s time for us to place all those ego & doubts at the feet of Jesus. Let us sit by His feet and come to Him with the Faith like a Child (Matthew 18:2-4).

Dear God, surround me as I speak,
the bridges that I walk across are weak
Frustrations fill the void that I can't solely bear.

Dear God, don't let me fall apart
you've held me close to you
I have turned away and searched
for answers I can't understand.

They say that I can move the mountains
And send them falling to the sea
They say that I can walk on water
If I would follow and believe with Faith Like a Child

Sometimes, when I feel miles away
and my eyes can't see your face
I wonder if I've grown to lose the
recklessness I walked in light of you

They say that love can heal the broken
They say that hope can make you see
They say that faith can find a Savior
If you would follow and believe
With Faith Like a Child

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 1.45pm - 28th March 2008

Chinese New Year

2008-02-05T09:47:00.000+08:00

Tung Tung Chang! Tung Tung Chang! Streams of red lanterns lights up the street. Bak Kua (dried pork meat) Cookies (Ong Lai Piah your the best) and Kam (mandarin orange) traders appears at almost every nook of the town. The night air is filled with the noise of popping firecrackers. Traditional Ang Pows known in legend to scare away the "Nian" burns viciously when the clock strikes 12. In conjunction with the coming Chinese New Year, Duck2Swan brings you the significance of each food that is served during this festive season.

Family Reunion Dinner

Noodle: Symbolizes Longevity
Be sure not to cut them!

Lotus Roots: Symbolizes getting Male Offspring and Health

Fish served whole: Symbolizes Prosperity

Egg Rolls: Symbolizes Gold and Wealth

Prawn: Symbolizes Laughter and Happiness (Cantonese - Har Har Siew)

Fatt Choy (Black Moss Seaweed) : homonym in Exceeding in Wealth

Abalones: Gold and Silver Ingots symbolizes Wealth

Peking Duck: Symbolizes Fidelity

Yee Sang: The special salad dish! Legend states that the higher you toss
the greater your prosperity. Well for me , its all pure fun tossing it.

---

Kam (Mandarin Oranges) : Literally means GOLD in Chinese;
Symbolizes Wealth

Peanuts: Symbolizes Longevity

Pineapple Tarts: Wong Lai - Literally means Prosperity Comes

Lychee: Symbolizes Close Family Ties

Neen Gow (Stick Cakes) : Legend says that this cake is created
to keep the "Kitchen God" from reporting to the Jade Emperor.
A form of bribe. Well for me, its just a sweet glutinous cake!

Loh Bak Gou (turnip cake) : I see this every year during Chinese New Year
and all around the year...so...someone please tell me what does this symbolizes.
*update - the gou, represents one’s job, business, or fortune, and as the cake rises during cooking, one’s position is said to improve* thanks to Jason

Bah Kua, Daging Salai, Yok Kon : All time favourite of the
Chinese Community

---

The Chinese Culture is rich and deep. Though it may be packed with superstitions and legends, it is still worth knowing this great culture that Chinese has forged over numerous dynasties. It's a sad sight that I see many of my Chinese friends are either forgetting their roots or just couldn't be bothered with it. Most of them can't even speak any proper Chinese Dialects and even have difficulty ordering food in a Chinese restaurant! It's of no surprise why some will regard us (those that can't even speak a single dialect) as a disgrace to our Chinese race.

Diversity is a creation of God. I urge you to remember your roots and please don't be so "Ang Moh". Some of you may regard being "Ang Moh" is cool and since you grew up speaking English, studying in English, working in English hence you don't give two-hoots about not being able to speak Chinese. Let me tell you my dear friends, being "Ang Moh" is a step towards globalization which will eventually destroy all the cultures that were forged so many years ago.

If we as Chinese Christians don't even know what our culture is like, how then can we preach to the Chinese Community? Who are our neighbours, friends and colleagues? What if they are from a typical Chinese family and if we are dead insensitive to their culture. How then can we preach? Let me bluntly say this to you, if you intend to be a missionary then you have failed. The Lord decreed that we start with Jerusalem then to ends of the earth. Where then is our Jerusalem? Isn't it where we live? Those people that we see daily at work, at school, our neighbours; aren't these people our Jerusalem? I hope you'll understand that I am not throwing the race card here but it's simple. Why God made each of us different? To some Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Sikh? It is for us to reach out to the communities around us. Each of us have our own responsibilities to share the Good News. A simple logic, we can't preach to someone that is only able to understand one language. Example; Tamil. Wouldn't it be difficult for me as a Chinese to share with the person? Or Mandarin. Wouldn't it be difficult for me as an Indian to share with the person? Take thought of it.

So my faithful readers (Chinese readers) of Duck2Swan please don't be ignorant and it is my hope that the Chinese Culture will not end at your generation or your child's generation.

Finally, I would like to wish all of you.
Gong Xi Fa Cai.
Happy Chinese New Year

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 12:42am - 5th February 2008

Homesick

2008-01-31T12:15:00.000+08:00

Homesick by MercyMe

You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times
And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you
But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry
Is how long must I wait to be with you

I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now

Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways
The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know
But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same
Cause I'm still here so far away from home

In Christ, there are no goodbye
And in Christ, there is no end
So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have
To see you again
To see you again

I've never been more homesick than now

---

A glimpse of heaven's splendour

Sometimes when we are caught in the storm we tend to lose focus on who our Captain is. Chaos stirs up a doubtful heart. Flashing lightning and ravaging thunder sends us hiding. In the midst of all these madness, we tend to have many questions. The more we ask the more doubtful we get and finally the more shaken we are. We lose sight on our Captain when we start to look at our feet. One of the frequently asked question that is directed to our Captain will definitely be starting with this BIG "WHY?". Why are we in this storm? Why am I going through this even as I am so faithful to you? Why is it not fair that only calamities befall upon me and not unto others? Why on earth am I here for? Why...Why...WHY?? I am pretty sure we all fall into this same scheme of the heart.

We all know that God's way are pure and perfect. We know that He allows storm to crash in for a reason. Sometimes we seek for this reason and for answers. There is a line that hit me when I was listening to this song by MercyMe.

"Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways
The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know
But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same
Cause I'm still here so far away from home"

Even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same. Nothing changes when we get to know WHY. Perhaps we may get clarity but we are still in the storm. Imagine, does it really help if you get to know the reason , when you are already in the midst of a storm with breakneck winds and rain that slams like millions of needles unto your skin. Wouldn't it be better if we take a turn to our attitudes and start looking at the Captain? He stands firm in the storm and He leads us through the storm. If you remember, our Captain has the power to calm the storm. He commands the wind and the waves. Storms are stilled by Him. So, what's your choice? Continue to wallow in a sea of confusion with all the WHYS or choose to look at the Captain that is bigger than the storm.
The choice is yours.

"I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer, my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold" - Psalm 18:1,2

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 6:32pm - started 30th January- completed 3rd February 2008

The Year that was 2007...

2008-01-24T09:29:00.000+08:00

"I will praise you forever for what you have done;
in your name I will hope, for your name is good.
I will praise you in the presence of your saints." - Psalms 52:9

"For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD." - Psalm 117:2

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 8:30am - 24th January 2008

Without You

2007-12-19T09:03:00.000+08:00

It's been five years since we last heard your voice, seen your smile and felt your touch. You are deeply and greatly missed by us your beloved. Since your departure life has not been perfectly well for us, waves and storms crashed upon us. Waves after waves strikes upon your household. We grew from strength to strength with the memory of you in our hearts. Patching up the sinking hole as we sail upon this rocky boat. We start to wonder whether if the sea is not that fierce or we have gotten better in manning the boat to adapt to the sea. Nevertheless, the guide that you left behind provided us strength to steer through the storm. The memories of you will always be in our hearts. The way you've touched each one of us may be different but yet we know that your love for each of us are special. The jokes that you shared, the laughter that we shared, will always be embedded in our hearts. Friday the 13th, an auspicious day. You will always remind us, it's the day of the birth of Mr.Freddy from Elm Street. 5 Friday the 13th has since passed, yet we are still reminded of your joke on this auspicious day. Friday the 13th has now gone beyond the birth of a freak, it became the day where you left us behind.

Without you,
Life has never been the same

---
This post is dedicated to a wonderful husband, father, uncle and friend
a legend, a hero
Phang Yoon Lum PJK
(27th February 1947 - 13th December 2002)
Deeply missed by your beloved
---

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 12.14am - 19th December 2007

Your Love

2007-12-06T20:41:00.000+08:00

Finally the long awaited day has finally arrived. 6th December 2007. Liberation from countless days of restless sleep, brain tension and burning of midnight oil. Chartered Institute of Marketing examination is finally over. It's a miracle that I managed to pull through 4 papers. I remember my lecturer's expression when he heard that I will be taking 4 papers at one go. Well at that point of time, I've never expected the horror of taking 4 papers at one go, in fact I was rather relaxed and confident. Nevertheless, through God's mercy and grace the exam is finally over and I am still alive!

What I've learned through this CIM examination is not to be stubborn and learn to listen to people's advice. Taking 4 papers is never easy when you have to study part-time and work at the same time. Maybe I am still young and gung-ho with my decisions. Well, advice is finally taken and I'll never repeat it again. I am truly thankful to God for seeing me through this whole ordeal and being so patient with me whenever I slack off or laze around wasting my time. Though as undeserving as I am, He has sustained me with good health and protected me as I journeyed to University of Malaya under a state of blurness at 6am in the morning. What can I say O Lord. There is nothing I can say to express what I feel for You. Thank You Lord.

When you took me in Your embrace
Everything around me starts to fade
And all that I can only see
Is your unfailing Love
My Lord, thank you for Your love

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 8:56pm - 6th December 2007

Introducing "Introvertism"

2007-11-25T13:34:00.000+08:00

Introvert, are reserved, thoughtful, and self-reliant. They are not necessarily asocial, but they tend to have smaller circles of friends, and are less likely to thrive on making new social contacts. (wikipedia)

Introvertism: A belief that tells one to view perspective from within and only from within. Everything that is not from within is of the without. A person that indulge in this belief; has a need to constantly seclude themselves to recharge and rejuvenate. This belief can be further separated into Positive Introvertism and Negative Introvertism.

Positive Introvertism: The ideal of having a perspective from within. It is characterized as being still, prayerful, and God-reliant. It is a person that constantly draws insight and strength from within (Holy Spirit that resides in our heart). Taking time to reflect and be still. Shutting-off the social clamours and taking time to refresh the soul.

Negative Introvertism: The ideal of looking at the "I" from within. It is characterized as being anxious, sensitive and self-conscious. It is a person that constantly frets about himself and having fear on other's perspective on him/her. Taking time to indulge and submerge in self-pity. Constantly putting blame on the social circle for the feeling of inadequacy. This belief is often link to Inferiority Complex.

Terms and words adapted from the -Ducktionary-

All alone?

You must be wondering, why I am bringing up some self-written terms to you. Well, being an Introvert myself I find myself constantly struggling with the issue of existence and worthiness. For those that know me pretty well, you must be thinking that I must be out of my mind to call myself an Introvert since you have definitely heard me making noise and being the life-wire of the group. Before I continue, let me rephrase the definition of Introvert to you. "They are not necessarily asocial, but they tend to have a smaller group of friends." So to you guys, I feel comfortable to be myself around you so you get to see the "inner" me. Anyway, back to the topic.

When a person indulges in the Negative Introvertism, the person may fall into a few traps that could lock them in their own self-built dungeon of despair. These are the traps that I would like to point out to you;

1) Self-Worth: I am not worthy enough to be around people. I am not that good.

2) Self-Pity: Who would want to be around a troublesome person like me? I have no friends.

3) Self-Agony: No one understands and no one cares. Who cares enough to know?

Once a person falls into these 3 traps they will find themselves digging deeper and deeper as they struggles to climb out of the trap. Perhaps some don't even realize that they are in the trap. Negative Introvertism could rip a person's confidence and sense of existence apart. This will further lead them to be subjected to depression and sadness. It's not the best experience to be in. I constantly find myself falling into this trap.

On the contrary, Positive Introvertism is about looking at God rather than looking at oneself. It is the best remedy for a hurting heart and the best counter to the traps of the Negative Introvertism. When we channel our thoughts from the "I" to God, our perspective changes. We will be thinking less about ourselves and more about God. That is exactly what Jesus did. Jesus constantly withdrew Himself to pray.

"But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." – Luke 5:16

Stop focusing on ourselves and start focusing on God. Be prayerful and you will soon find yourself to be God-reliant. We will start to rely on God in everything that we do.

I find many introverted people tends to look at the extraverted counterpart and wishes to be like them. (Not all of the introverted feels this way, I for one belonged to the group that couldn't care less with the antiques that our extraverted counterpart does. Ignorance is bliss). My friends you don't have to.

Celebrate the fact that you are an Introvert for each of us is fearfully and wonderfully made by God. Take up the Positive Introvertism and allow the fullness of God to fill our heart.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 1.38pm - 23^rd November 2007

More to this Life

2007-11-16T14:08:00.000+08:00

More to this Life by Steven Curtis Chapman

Today I watched in silence as people passed me by,
And I strained to see if there was something hidden in their eyes;
But they all looked at me as if to say
Life just goes on.

The old familiar story told in different ways,
Make the most of your own journey from the cradle to the grave;
Dream your dreams tomorrow because today
Life must go on.

CHORUS
But there’s more to this life than living and dying,
More than just trying to make it through the day;
More to this life, more than these eyes alone can see,
And there’s more than this life alone can be.

Tonight he lies in silence staring into space,
And looks for ways to make tomorrow better than today,
But in the morning light it looks the same;
Life just goes on.

He takes care of his family, he takes care of his work,
And every Sunday morning he takes his place at the church;
And somehow he still feels a need to search,
But life just goes on.

So where do we start to find every part
Of what makes this life complete;
If we turn our eyes to Jesus we’ll find
Life’s true beginning is there at the cross where He died.
He died to bring us . . .

---

I've been struggling with the issue about existence. I am pretty sure that in one way or another we would have stumble upon this question. "What on earth am I here for?" I guess it's one of the most common question that has ever been asked in the history of mankind. We often find ourself asking God the meaning of us being here and the quest for purpose seem to be a never-ending task. The moment we thought we have already found the purpose of living, doubts starts to cloud the "purpose" we have found. In the end of the day, it will be like running through a vicious cycle of searching, finding and losing.

Ponder upon the lyrics of the song. What do you see? Do you see yourself in it? Do you hear the words that constantly haunts you? We often force our way through life or rather we often give excuses to the emptiness we are suffering. The phrase "Life must go on, Life just goes on" echoes in the hallway of our empty heart. Aren't you frustrated? It's like, what's next? Now what? Frankly, I am frustrated with this search. Even when we have the one sure thing that secures our heart yet we constantly fall into this vicious loop of self-identity, self-purpose and the very issue of existence. I started to ponder upon this thought, why am still feeling this sense of emptiness within me although I have the one sure thing? I discovered that I am just too shy to bring this issue up with God and decided to wallow in it on my own.

A surge of emptiness flowed within my heart today. The feeling of being abandoned, forsaken and left to be alone. I decided to pray and give it all to Jesus for I know that Jesus was abandon, forsaken and indeed left to be alone. Abandon by his beloved disciples. Forsaken, when God turned His face away when He was on the cross. Alone in the grave. This thought has indeed uplifted my spirit and what I saw was the hand of Christ pulling me up from the pit of emptiness. I know, I will always stumble and fall into the pit. But I am sure, that each time I fall He will lift me up.

A pit can be real deep and scary

So my dear friends, if you are struggling and feel helpless. Do not be afraid, our Lord is there to lift us up. However there is one criteria; ASK for help. I am sure it will come. There is definitely more to this life, more than living and dying, more than trying to make it through another day.

"For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."" - Romans 10: 12, 13

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 1.54pm - 16th November 2007

The Wrench

2007-10-24T08:53:00.000+08:00

“I am very much disturbed with the incident that happened today. Everything was as usual in the office today. Had a cup of milo, read the news, started working and went for lunch. After we came back from lunch, my colleague noticed that a few Indian boys were loitering on their bicycles outside the office. The next moment, they started to unscrew the shiny tyre tube cap from my colleague’s car. We went outside and asked them to stop. Instead of stopping, they took the caps and make a dash for it. I chased them and caught up with 2 out 3 bicycles. I knew I could catch the 3^rd Bicycles if I wanted to but I didn’t. The kids were horrified when I grabbed their bicycle and forced them to stop. The moment I caught them, I knew they were poor kids from the squatter area nearby and I knew that they wanted the cap for their bicycles. I didn’t know what to do or what to say. All I did was to demand the caps from one of them.

It was the expression of the kids that touched me. I know that they have done something that is wrong. Stealing is never right. However, when I caught them I didn’t know what to do with them. They were so helpless and fearful. I knew that these kids don’t mean harm. All that they ever wanted was something that they do not have. All they wanted was to beautify their own bicycles that have seen better days. I didn’t want to scold them neither do I want to punish them. But I knew that they did something wrong and they must be taught to do the right thing. Moreover it was my first time apprehending kids for doing something wrong. Before I could say anything, a passer-by came and started scolding the kids in Tamil. Before I knew it, he started beating them. He smacked their hands and I knew it wasn’t a hard smack. It was more of wanting to teach them a lesson. My heart jumped each time he hit them and one of the boys almost cried when he tried to smack him. I felt helpless. I wanted to ask him to stop but I didn’t. I wanted to say something, but I can’t speak in Tamil. The boys were so overwhelmed with fear and guilt that he started apologising to me. The uncle took the spanner and the tyre tube cover and gave them to me. The kids fled on their bicycles. After a while, they came back while my colleagues were talking about the incident. I thought the kids will never come back but yet they came back. In fact, the one that came back was the one that I’ve caught earlier. Knowing the danger of being scolded they still come back to return the stolen tube cap and to reclaim their spanner. It was all they had for the bicycles. The spanner. My colleague apprehended him and frightened that she is going to bring him to the police. The boy was almost in tears and I just stood there helpless and speechless. My heart really went out for him. I wanted to let him know; if you really want it I can buy for you as a gift but promise me not to steal again. But I stood there and witness the onslaught of fear upon him. The uncle came back and spoke Tamil to the boy again. Once again, he started smacking him. It was more like a warning smack and he sent the boys away. Perhaps it was a good way to end it, as my colleague was very stern. I hope the kids learn a lesson through this incident. Stealing is never right. To my amazement, the tube cap that was returned was not the same colour as my colleague’s car. This boy, came back and took all the scolding and beating for his cowardice friend that ran away with the tube cap. I guess after all, he came back for the spanner.”

Looking back at it, I truly regret that I didn’t make a stand. I didn’t know how to. My passion goes out to kids like these. The profiles of these kids are all identical. They lack parental love, education, guidance material needs and most of all the care and sympathy. It’s never their choice to be brought up in circumstances such as these and I am very sure it was never their intention to steal. Who would steal if they can afford it? However, if no proper guidance is given to these unfortunate individuals these petty action of stealing may one day escalate to greater heights. Perhaps robbery.

I’ve met kids that come from poor family in Sunday School and I always care for them but the thing is I don’t know how to care for them. I guess the spanner that was in my hand taught me the meaning of acting out what my heart desires for God. Each time, I hold a spanner I will remember this incident and the lesson that I’ve learnt from it. I hope each time you meet someone from such a background you will extend your friendship to them and guide them. I am sure you will meet them. They are closer to you than you know it.

These kids remind me of myself. Sin decides my destination. I was scolded; smacked and rebuked for the time I’ve committed actions that were not right. Pushed to the corner with guilt and regrets. No where to run, No were to hide. Surrounded by giants that taunted me for the errors that I’ve made. In my moments of desperation and despair Jesus came to me. He picked me up, wiped away the grimes and stain on my face. He smiled at me and lifted me up with His hands. He died in my place. He forgave me. He gave me a new direction. A new destination. Homeward bound. Heaven bound.

“You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” – Micah 7:19

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 8.53 am – 24^th October 2007

Under Construction

2007-09-20T10:20:00.000+08:00

This blog is temporarily closed for construction. The author of this blog is having some serious ink drought and please be patient while he searches around to replenish the ink.

Thorny Affair

2007-08-13T15:30:00.000+08:00

On the 10th of August 2007, the FAITH group of the Bethany Impact Group (BIG) had a gala time feasting on the local fruits. All the FAITH members were encouraged to bring some local fruits for the meeting. Some brought durians, mangoesteen, langsat and some weird looking rambutan. If I am not mistaken it's called Memperah or Memulas? Whatever...anyway our dearest Uncle Eng Keong traveled all the way down to Rawang just to buy a huge basket of durians! He deserves the BIG Host of the Year award! Thank you Uncle Eng Keong for giving us the opportunity to feast upon the King of Fruits ala BUFFET style!

"Irresistible! Mr.Durian, I am going to rip the flesh out of your skin! RAWRZ" - Kel Vin

This is what happens when a person consume durians beyond the safe limit. Hallucination, speaking in weird language with devastating breath, ecstatic movement of the head (look at Uncle R***), cheeky smiles, misguided truth (Uncle Eng Keong deserves the BIG Host of the Year award) and many other weird behaviors are common symptoms of Durian OverDose.

All in all, we had a wonderful time together as a family in Christ.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 1.17 am - 13th of August 2007

P.S - LOVE group please don't be jealous. We did invite you guys to come over but you guys turned down the offer. =)

You Never Let Go – Matt Redman , Beth Redman

2007-08-09T11:46:00.000+08:00

Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
Your perfect love is casting out fear.
And even when I'm caught
in the middle of the storms of this life,
I won't turn back, I know You are near.

And I will fear no evil,
For my God is with me.
And if my God is with me,
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?

Oh no, You never let go,
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go,
In every high and every low
O no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me.
You keep on running and you never let go
Singing Lord You never let go of me

And I can see a light
that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare.
And there will be an end
to these troubles, But until that day comes,
We'll live to know You here on the earth.

Yes, I can see a light that is coming
for the heart that holds on,
And there will be an end to these troubles,
but until that day comes,
Still I will praise You,
still I will praise You.

------------------------------

Have you ever doubted when the storms and waves crash unto you? Doubted when you feel that your burden is too heavy to bear? Doubted the presence of Jesus by your side? Felt that you are all alone? Felt that you are beyond redemption? Put your doubts aside and start to trust, for God will never let go of us.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." – Deuteronomy 31:6

Let us hold His hands as how a child will hold on to his father's hand.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 12.07pm – 9th August 2007

Taking up our cross

2007-08-01T11:32:00.000+08:00

Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. – Luke 9:23

What does taking up our own cross means? What does the cross means? Many of us tend to have a misconception about what the cross means. The cross is often misunderstood as our burdens and heavy load. The dictionary defines the cross as - “any affliction that causes great suffering; "that is his cross to bear"; "he bears his afflictions like a crown of thorns"

Just a reminder to you on what the cross is. The cross is an ancient instrument of torture and execution designed to as the most severe punishment to criminals. Jesus wasn’t talking about mere trials, sufferings and burdens that we should bear daily. He is talking about death. Death to ourselves. Death to sin. The apostle Paul clearly understood the statement given by our Lord. In his letter to the believers in Galatia he wrote;

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20

This verse speaks a lot to me. It serves as a reminder to carry our cross daily and to die to ourselves and our sin. Our goals, our ambitions, our wants, our longings, our desires, and everything that involves the capital s“I”n in the middle.

“But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith.” – Philippians 3:7-9

I’ll let the Scripture speak to you.

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.” – Galatians 5:24

The recent Korean hostage drama in Afghanistan saddens me and as the world waits in anticipation for the release of the hostages by the Taliban insurgents, let us commit this whole scenario until the hands of our Saviour. For this men and women, took the risk for the sake of Christ. Let us pray steadfastly for their release and in all things we know that God is in control of everything.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 11.59pm – 31^st July 2007

A Closer Walk with Thee

2007-07-23T12:13:00.000+08:00

“It was a stormy day, at the streets of Sri Lanka. The clouds were gloomy and dark. Reverend Rajoo has just finished a long day of work ministering to the people. As he was walking home, a passing car splashed water from a puddle unto him. Reverend Rajoo was shocked with the rude surprise as his white shirt was drenched with muddy rain water. He could only see some tiny spots of mud on his white shirt and he thought it was ok. As he walked towards the street lamp down the street, he realised that it was more than tiny spots of mud had dirtied his shirt. He discovered bigger spots and as he drew near to the street lamp. When he was under the street lamp, he realised that his whole white shirt has turn into a brown muddy shirt.”

- Adapted from Reverend Rajoo of Sri Lanka in his sermon

This short testimony given by Reverend Rajoo has given a new insight to me on what Christianity is all about. We often have the misconception that the ultimate objective of a Christian is “just” to be perfect and to be Christ-like. However, being a Christian is more than that. I would like to emphasize that being a Christian doesn’t make us SINLESS but it does helps us to SIN-Less.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." - John 8 : 12

The spots and blemishes become clearer as we walk closer towards Jesus. Things that were ought to be okay in the past may no longer be okay to us as we draw near to Him. As we draw near towards Jesus, His light reveals to us our spots and blemishes. Let us walk with Him and allow Him to renew our minds and our hearts as His light shines through.

“Lord, I come to your awesome presence
From the shadows into your radiance
By the blood I may enter your brightness
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness
Shine on me, shine on me” – adapted from Graham Kendrick
Copyright © 1987 Make Way Music

- I would give all that I have
Just to have a closer walk with Thee -

From Duck to Swan

Signing out at 12.50am – 23rd July 2007

Thy Hands in All that I do

2007-05-29T23:11:00.000+08:00

A tribute dedicated to Jesus Christ for a decade filled with trials, turmoil, tranquil, transition, transformation and thanksgiving.

This day marks the most historical days of my life.

--------

A decade ago, on a cold and serene morning of Cameron Highlands in search for an answer in life a boy stood up to the challenge to accept the unknown God to him. This is where the journey began. Out of naivety and in desperation to fill the void in his life, he rose to challenge this unknown God to fill his life. In his pursuit for answers, the boy soon discovers that this unknown God is the True God. Soon, he discovered that he met the Saviour.

“Looking back at that time, I guess it was out of naivety that I challenged Jesus. To show me and to prove to me that He loves me and that He is the True God. I thank the grace of our Lord, that He did not strike me dead for doubting Him and I am indeed glad that I took up the challenge to receive Him as my personal Lord and Saviour although I do not know what life will be with Him in it.”

The boy never knew that, when he acknowledges that Jesus is his personal Lord and Saviour his life will never be the same again. The boy then became attached to the church that he was attending. However, attending church was never the same again for him. Learning English and to have fun was his intended excuse of attending the church but ever since the Saviour entered into his life. Church meant more than the intended excuse. The church became the place where he can call his home. Being acquainted with fellow brothers and sisters, uncles and aunties, he discovers that there the love of Christ is evident in His church.

“Coming from a broken family, I’ve always search for a place where I can have the sense of belonging. I thank God for the warm fellowship and love that the fellow believers from Klang Gospel Hall and Klang Jaya Gospel Hall have shown to me. I thank God for Klang Jaya Gospel Hall; it’s truly a place where I call as my own home.”

Striving through his teenage years, the boy soon came to learn more about his Saviour. He became more and more reliant on his Heavenly Father as he discovers more about Him. His eagerness and his zeal lead him to be strongly attached to the youth group of his church. Wanting to do his best for his Master, he spent all his effort and strength in giving his best to his Master. Serving with enthusiasm and a burning passion, the boy soon discovers that he is being bombarded with more and more responsibilities and finally was assume to hold a leadership position in his youth group.

“All that I ever wanted to do was to serve and to give my best to my Lord. My weekends were packed with church activity. Being totally involved in the Teen Scene, attending the Gospel Meeting, worshiping in the Worship Meeting and learning in the Sunday School. I don’t even have time for myself and my family. I remember I would only be able to see my parents for about 30 minutes on a Saturday. I would have to rush to prepare myself after Teen Scene to go for the Gospel Meeting. But I was glad that my parents were quite open about me being so involved with the church.”

However, the rise to leadership left the boy high and dry. The higher he went, the more arrogant he became. He started to lose his friends. One by one they left him. His initial reason of serving his Master started to fade as his own agenda started to take place. He wanted to do great things for his Master in “his” own way. God was patient and compassionate with the foolish boy. God is the Shepherd that patiently search and take his sheep back to his flock whenever they stray. The boy had to learn the hard way for his arrogance and blind zeal.

“I remember being the smart-witted one in the youth committee. I often lash out on things where I thought was not in the right order. I started to think highly of myself and held on tightly to the standards that I’ve set and achieved. Looking back at it, I wonder how many people have I hurt with those words that I’ve so bluntly said. It was the highest point of my life but it was the lowest point too as I realized that I was starting to lose friends and people that I love around me. I am thankful that God is faithful and He did not abandon nor forsake me for being such a brat.”

After almost half a decade, the boy revisited the place he first met the Saviour. Having heard so much about the Residential Bible School the boy eagerly signed up for the school and was placed in a school with 39 others. Being much mellowed after all the disciplining from God for his arrogance, the boy had another life changing experience at the same mountain top again. This time, his life changed as he re-dedicated his life again to his Saviour. The dimmed zeal and passion, lit once again and this time it lit the proper way. The experiences gained in the school, will never be forgotten by the boy as it is deeply embedded in his heart. There the boy met the Saviour once again at the foot of the Cross. His life changed and he thought he will never be the same again. However God has other plans for this boy, plans that will change his life forever.

“I will never forget the teachings and the experiences from RBS. All those morning devotions, all those sharing and all those teachings. I’ve seen the Lord and heard His gentle whispers. It was nostalgic being back to the place where I first met the Lord. My life changed, and I felt the fire rekindled in my heart. I was eager to do much for Him and was eager to give everything I can for Him.”

A few months after RBS, the boy moved on to a new phase of life. He is almost a grown up at this point, or at least that was what he thought to be. He started his college life and for the first time he was living away from his family. However, he felt that he was getting dry again and suppressed. The passion was burning from within but being so distant from his home church and not being able to adapt well to his new environment, he felt drained. So, the boy longed to go home and be with his family. In the course of the year, the boy met the girl. A sister in Christ that He became acquainted with in the Residential Bible School. They soon became an item.

“I wanted to do so much for God. After RBS I was practically burning and my feet was not even on the ground anymore. I felt I was floating and desired greatly to serve the Lord. However, once again my radical behavior starts to take control as I was not able to accept the changes made by the church. I became rebellious thinking that my ways were right and soon I became distant from my church. It was bad. However, I’ve met the girl of my life at that point of time too. So, it is hard to describe as the taste of sour, bitter and sweet happens together.”

However, the happiness was short-last. The storm was brewing up ahead and the boy was unaware of what is to come in his life. God knew. God never leave the boy although he has fallen once again to his pride and dignity. At 13^th December of that year, the boy’s dad was taken away from him. His dad was struck down with sudden death; the killer of all time, heart attack. This surprising event threw the boy and his family into deep confusion, turmoil, anger, frustration and sadness. The boy’s life changed. He turned hostile and away from his Saviour. He persecuted his very own Saviour. He blamed his Saviour for all that had happened. He became bitter.

“When I lost dad, I was in total disbelief of whatever was happening. It was so sudden. Dad was there the day before smiling to us and on the next day I was forced to take Dad out of the morgue. He was cold and lifeless. We were not there by his side when he left. Perhaps that’s what he intended, the night before he chased us back from the hospital. Dad didn’t want us to see him leaving or perhaps it he didn’t want us to be there when he leaves. I will never know. But one day, when I see him again through the gates of splendor I will know. I always believed that Dad held Jesus close to his heart although he did not say it. I hope that all those tracts that I gave Dad did bring him to Jesus. My life changed, I became bitter and started to turn away from Jesus. I put all the blame to Him and I seek for an answer from Him. But I never did get an answer.”

The boy was brought through the years of pain, resentment and sorrow. He turned away from all, every friend and every person that he was once close with. He left his church. However, there was one that stood by his side even when he fails to stand. God is there. Despite all the curses and resentment, God is still there. Through the boy’s beloved God manifested his love to him through her. She managed to paste back the broken pieces of the boy’s heart with God guiding her hands. Through much pain and effort she patiently brought the boy back to his Saviour.

“If she was not there for me. I would not be where I am today. I thank the Lord for her. As Jesus’ love manifested through her to me. My broken life was once again mended. I would never imagine what life will be, if she was not there for me through the trying time. To me she is an angel given to me by God. God is good as He never forsake me even after what I’ve done. All those words of anger and curses that I hurled against Him. Yet He still forgives me for what I’ve done.”

The boy recovered after much effort by His Saviour. The boy changed to be much more mellowed and leaving his ways of arrogance and pride behind. Promising himself not to ever embrace it again the boy started his life all over again. However, trials never seem to stop as it pours in like raging waves to his life. He finds himself being bombarded with massive amounts of trials. Instead of trusting in his Saviour, the boy soon confided in his angel. His love grew more for his angel. Much more than for his Saviour. Ultimately his angel became the center of his life. Everything seems to revolve around her. The Saviour is no where to be seen.

“Everything seem to revolve around her. Everything that happens to me must be made known to her, not by her request but its me who can’t wait to share with her everything. However, in my own foolishness I was blinded and have not seen how much I have hurt Jesus. I’ve abandoned Jesus and once again left Him behind.”

The boy had to pay a high price for his foolishness yet again. His angel was taken away from him. He learned a hard lesson that in whatever he does, he must honour God first. His angel has to leave in order for his Saviour to be the first again. For no one is able to compete with the Saviour. It was a painful parting, many dreams were shattered and hopes were dashed but in the midst of confusion and pain the boy found a meaning to it all. Once again, the boy finds himself standing at the feet of his Saviour. He finds himself up at the mountain once again.

“It was painful losing her but yet in the midst of all those sorrow I discovered the purpose. I thank God for revealing it to me. Jesus wants me to fully embrace Him as Lord and Saviour and no one else should ever come in His way again. I fully submit to His will. Through the time despair, Jesus is there. He lavished His peace and love to me. I was very much moved by His great mercy and love. After all that I’ve done, straying away again and again, yet He is still faithful to me. His love is faithful. And in the midst of it all, I can say to Him “Thank you for loving me, Thank you for saving me. I love you.””

The boy lost love, yet he found love. The love that he lost was nothing in comparison to the love that he found. An eternal love, an unconditional love, agape love, a faithful love, a love that never ends, and a love that flows richly out from His Saviour. The boy immersed himself deep. He once took a sip and tasted that it was good yet he turned away and decided to seek love in his own way. Now, the boy dives in deep. Deep to the source of an everlasting Love from His Saviour.

---------

In a blink of an eye, it has already been 10 years. I’ve grown in size and in maturity. I am no longer a boy, but a man. A man that went through the scorching fire of trials and temptations. I am greatly reminded of the Israelites, on their stubbornness and disobedience. How many times have they turned away from God? How many times have I turned away from God? After each time, He brings me back yet in my foolishness I still pursue things that will fade. It is my prayer that I will continue to abide in His love and in His grace. The covenant of His love is renewed every morning. To me, the rising of the sun and the setting of the sun is my covenant of love with Jesus. After all that happened, finally I could say “I Love You Jesus.”

Thank you my Saviour, my Lord and my God for loving me and being so patient with me. Thank you for Your great mercy and faithfulness. Thank you for Your abounding grace. I am dumbstruck and speechless. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of you that have left footprints in my life, for you that went through with me through the fire of trials. I will always remember what you’ve done for me and my gratitude to you is beyond words. Thank you for standing by me. (you know who you are ^-^) 10 years of trials, turmoil, tranquil, transition, transformation and thanksgiving. I give it all to you Jesus.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 12.00am – 30^th May 2007

(1997 – 2007)

World's Apart

2007-05-25T23:44:00.000+08:00

World’s Apart – Jars of Clay

I am the only one to blame for this
Somehow it all ends up the same
Soaring on the wings of selfish pride
I flew too high and like Icarus I collide
With a world I try so hard to leave behind
To rid myself of all but love
to give and die

To turn away and not become
Another nail to pierce the skin of one who loves
more deeply than the oceans,
more abundant than the tear
Of a world embracing every heartache

Can I be the one to sacrifice
Or grip the spear and watch the blood and water flow

To love you - take my world apart
To need you - I am on my knees
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - broken on my knees

All said and done I stand alone
Amongst remains of a life I should not own
It takes all I am to believe
In the mercy that covers me

Did you really have to die for me?
All I am for all you are
Because what I need and what I believe are worlds apart

I look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
and wipe away the crimson stains
and dull the nails that still remain
More and more I need you now,
I owe you more each passing hour
the battle between grace and pride
I gave up not so long ago
So steal my heart and take the pain and wash the feet and cleanse my pride take the selfish, take the weak, and all the things I cannot hide take the beauty, take my tears the sin-soaked heart and make it yours take my world all apart
take it now, take it now and serve the ones that I despise speak the words I can't deny watch the world I used to love fall to dust and thrown away
I look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
so wipe away the crimson stains
and dull the nails that still remain
so steal my heart and take the pain
take the selfish, take the weak
and all the things I cannot hide
take the beauty, take my tears
take my world apart, take my world apart
I pray, I pray, I pray
take my world apart

I’ve rediscover the wonder and the significance of this song that I have posted above. The words alone describe the feelings and emotions of the moment when I give my heart away to God. Read the lyrics, ponder upon the words and immerse your thoughts in the wondrous grace that God has given us as He takes our worlds apart.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 11.59pm – 25^th May 2007

Rat Race

2007-05-18T10:00:00.000+08:00

We are in a fast paced era, and most will find themselves being involved in the Rat Race in one way or another. The race begins when one is 4 years old, when they are sent to the nursery, language classes, and art classes by their parents. Upon reaching primary school, a person will be shoved into taking tuition classes, music classes and sports. All these extra classes seem rather unfamiliar to the “older” generation (I am glad that I enjoyed my childhood). However it’s the trend of this generation. Only the best survives and the only way to survival is to be the best. I would perceive that as the current saying of this generation.

Do you find yourself in the Rat Race? Many of us don’t even realize that we are in the Race. Being in the Race seems to be the norm of the post-modern era. Being in the Race leads us to constantly pushing ourselves further to keep up to its pace. We often tend to focus on the need for the race, on what we will eat (strength to work even harder?), on what we will wear (dress to impress and to raise our popularity?), on where we will stay (home for social status?). The more we focus on it, the more we worry on how to obtain it and one day the desire of wanting all these will eat into our very soul.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” – Matthew 6 : 26,28

Look at nature. It’s self-sustaining. It’s taken care of. The Creator Himself is caring for it. How much more He will take care of those that He has called His child? Therefore, don’t let the crutches of this world and this generation to have a grip on you. The only way to break out of this norm if you are in it is to Set Your Eyes on Jesus and things that once matters to you will grow strangely dim. The unseen hand is the hands of the Creator of All and He will sustain you. Let us run the race, a different race, a race marked out for us.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” - Hebrews 12: 1-3

The Rat Race is just a race for rats. (we are worth much more than that aren't we?)

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 7.00pm – 17^th May 2007

Sand Castles?

2007-04-23T23:09:00.000+08:00

Have you ever had the joy of building up a sand castle? Building a sand castle is not as easy as it seem to be. Ask the professionals and you will find yourself being bombarded with complicated formulas and equations (S = M x sand + N x water) that must be adhered to build and sustain this delicate structure against the forces of nature. Personally, we may have built sand castles by the beach and we have been building sand castles in our lives.

Sand Castles built by the sands of enjoyment, sands of success, sands of ignorance, sands of pride, and the list goes on.

Have you ever thought that the basic formula to build a sand castle comprises from 2 basic substances? Sand and water that comes in abundance. Let me remind you, any sand castles that were ever build could not withstand the rain and the wind. It crumbles and falls apart when the storm hits the bay of the beach. Rumbling waves, slaps hard upon the beach and all the hard effort of building the sand castles will be in vain. So then, what’s more worthwhile? Investing our time in things that does not last or Investing our time things that matters and last for eternity?

“...everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against the house, and it fell with a great crash.” – Matthew 7:26-27

There is a constant struggle between Reality and Spirituality, Rock and Sand, Contentment and Discontentment. What we want may not be what God wants us to be. We strive and struggle to go against Him and building our individual sand castles that will not last.

Let us learn to live to the remarkable words of the Apostle Paul;

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do anything through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:12-13

Let us build castles with and on THE ROCK that will last forever and ever.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 11:07pm at 23^rd April 2007

At the Foot of the Cross

2007-04-06T15:11:00.000+08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we remembers what our Lord and Saviour has done for us on the Cross at Calvary, let us fall down on our knees and bow to worship Him. Love redefined, a love which we could never comprehend. An eternal love, an unconditional love, an underserving love, a perfect love. Oh how we have forgotten that first love, the love that brought us here on this voyage. It was by His grace and love that we are redeemed.

My friends if you are still burdened with the weight of the world upon your shoulders or if you have forgotten the First Love; I'll invite you to join me at the Foot of the Cross.

At The Foot of the Cross
At the foot of the cross
Where grace and suffering meet
You have shown me Your love
Through the judgment You received
And You've won my heart
And You've won my heart

Now I can..
Trade these ashes in for beauty
And wear forgiveness like a crown
Coming to kiss the feet of mercy
I lay every burden down
At the foot of the cross

At the foot of the cross
Where I am made complete
You have given me life
Through the death you bore for me
And You've won my heart
And You've won my heart

Now I can..
I lay every burden down
At the foot of the cross

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 3.23pm at 6th April 2007

When Trials Goes Beyond

2007-04-04T21:01:00.000+08:00

Do you ever wonder why we often face trials and difficulties in our life? Not a single man is able to escape from the plague of problems and worries. None can ever say that everything is smooth sailing, I am perfectly happy with my life. The poor has their worries and the rich has theirs too. If you disagree with me that none is able to escape from this plague, then I invite you to reason it out with me.

The journey of life is characterized by the ups and downs that we face. Some may have more ups and some may have more downs but nevertheless they are still in the same category. The question is this; how do we react or respond whenever we face difficulties in life? We basically have two options to it, either to take it positively or negatively. Let me recommend to you a third option.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4

Pure joy!? Are you telling me to be joyful without any ill feelings whenever I face trials in life? Come on, if you are in my shoes you wouldn’t be telling me this. Yes! Pure Joy! It is something hard to grasp whenever we are in the perils of the raging storm but let me remind you again, that our Captain is in-charge and this SHIP that we are on can never sink!

The Apostle Paul sums it up in 2 Corinthians;

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweights them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

Sometimes we fail to see what’s more worthwhile when we are in the midst of the storm. Whenever everything fails, turn to Jesus. He’s there. I know He’s there. Fix our eyes on Jesus He’s the author and the perfecter of our faith.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 9.11pm – 4^th April 2007

A Tribute

2007-03-26T02:04:00.000+08:00

On the 24^th March 2007, Mr. Eric Kirton a loving father and grandpa, a humble servant of God, a missionary to the people in Kuantan, a preacher teacher, and the Evangel bookman returned home to the Lord. In the memorial service, I was deeply touched by his life as old friends, fellow workers and leaders of the church gave their testimonies about him and his life. Here is a man who laid down his life in total submission and obedience to the cross of Christ. You can read about his bibliography at http://www.ekirton.com.

These are one of the last words of the Apostle Paul;

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:2

May we all end the race that was marked out for us like the Apostle Paul and Mr. Eric Kirton. That all who comes behind us find us faithful. You have left a legacy behind and footprints for us to follow. Thank You Mr. Eric Kirton.

“Special thanks to Mr. Eric Kirton for answering his call to be a missionary. He traveled to Malaysia and began his work enthusiastically to spread the gospel to many and bringing them to the saving grace and knowledge of the LORD JESUS CHRIST! He has definitely blessed many and also myself. His sermons and messages are truly inspiring. May The Lord bless him as Eric Kirton is now back in His arms at 5am 24th March. He's done his part on earth and now enjoys an everlasting relationship with our LORD JESUS. And I know my redeemer lives to conquer death and to raise us up again to be with HIM in heaven. You will be deeply missed by family members, team Kirton mission team, brothers and sisters in Christ on earth. This song is specially dedicated to You, Mr. Eric Kirton. God Bless U and Thank You for everything!! (24th MARCH 2007)” – noobshit a.k.a Leong Eng

I’ll let the lyrics of the song that were sung in the memorial service speak to you.

- Find Us Faithful -

We're pilgrims on the journey
Of the narrow road
And those who've gone before us line the way
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary
Their lives a stirring testament to God's sustaining grace

Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses
Let us run the race not only for the prize
But as those who've gone before us
Let us leave to those behind us
The heritage of faithfulness passed on through godly lives

After all our hopes and dreams have come and gone
And our children sift through all we've left behind
May the clues that they discover and the memories they uncover
Become the light that leads them to the road we each must find

Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 2.09am – 26^th March 2007

Of Disease and Of Honour

2007-03-23T13:51:00.000+08:00

I’ve recently watched the movie 300 that replayed the scenario of the historical battle of Thermopylae. The Greeks (Spartans) fought a valiant battle against the vast Persians armies that numbered like the sands of the beach. 300 brave Spartans laid down their lives for their King Leonidas and their beloved country Sparta from the cruel invasion of the Persians. The Spartans are men of valor that is proud of their origin, their country and most of all their King. I was deeply touched by their loyalty and love to the King and to the country. They are more than willing to lay down their lives for the sake of their King. They fought alongside with him and died alongside with him. Men of the distant past seem to place great honour to the sovereignty of their King and his kingdom.

There is a great contrast between man of the past and man of the present. The modern society and culture have shaped each person to honour himself/herself ahead of others. The value of honour is questionable in today’s society. Everyone is for themselves. The capital “I” has become the center of everything. “I” should be the first, “I” am the best, and “I” lead my life the way “I” want it to be. Well, in the middle of it all it is “I” and in the problem that lead to this capital “I” syndrome is in the disease known as s”I”n. It’s a common disease that strikes every person on this surface of the earth. However it is a fatal disease that could cause serious damage to a person’s life and eventually leading to death.

Fear not for the cure has been found. There is a man that has the immunity to this disease in His blood. However, the only way to make the cure is by using His blood. The antibody serum can only be made with one condition. It requires all of His blood. He has to die in our stead so that we might have the cure for the fatal disease.

“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” – Matthew 26:26

But yet sometimes we fail to see that we are so absorbed into the culture of the world that teaches that every man is for themselves. Taking up the main symptom of the disease of s”I”n even when we had been cured of it - Trust no-one but trust yourself.

Do we honour our King? Do we even acknowledge our King? Or the disease that once brought condemnation to us has clouded our minds and boosted our self-ego? Do we trust ourselves more than we trust the King? King Leonidas’ men trusted in him and willingly lay down their lives for him. None of them deserted the cause although they knew the outcome that is facing them, – death. Oh what honour these men possessed. Do we have the same valor and honour for our King? The King that willingly lay down His life so that we might live.

Think about it.

Where does your honour lies?

In yourself or In your King.

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 1.50pm – 23^rd March 2007

Stillness in the Wilderness

2007-03-19T10:52:00.000+08:00

Wilderness. It is an extensive area, such as a desert or ocean, that is barren or empty; a wasteland. It is a place where the wild roams free and anything can happen in it. It is often viewed as a place to fear and avoid. It is a forsaken land where even the thought of stepping into it is a taboo. However, the word wilderness is a common sight in the Bible. The children of Israel spent 40 years in the wilderness, David seek refuge in the wilderness when he was hunted by King Saul and Jesus Himself spent 40 days in the wilderness. Have you ever journeyed across the wilderness? Or are you being forced into the wilderness through the circumstances that you face?

The choice of allowing ourselves to end up in the wilderness is within our grasp. There are three options that is opened to us.

1) Disobey God. Complain and grumble about everything that we face and be discontented with what we have. The manna is so dull, we want quail! You will see yourself being stripped of all and earning a ticket into the desert just like the children of Israel.

"In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron." - Exodus 16:2

2) Disaster arises. Calm sea turns to grave storm. Grief strikes, disappointment lurks. That's when we retreat into the wilderness for refuge just as David did.

“Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge.” – Psalms 16:1

3) Devotedly obedient. Allowing ourselves to be sacrifices for God on the altar. We diligently march into the wilderness just as Jesus did.

“At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.” Mark 1:12-13

Options 1 and 2 looks familiar doesn’t it? Why must it be when we are stripped of all only then we turn to the Saviour? Why must we cling on to the things that does not last and only to let it go when God made us to? Why aren't we just be contented with what we have? Does complaining about the things we doesn't have brings us any good? Take sometime to think about the bout of questions. If you are in the wilderness because of Option 3 I applaud you but be ready for the bout of trials and temptations that will come your way.

It is in the wilderness, we are in solitude. It is where God works to break us completely. In the wilderness there is nothing. In the wilderness there is no one. When everything fades away, our daily routine, our work, our studies, our friends and when we are left with nothing. That's when we can hear the gentle whispers of God. The world drowns us in an echo of demands. Deadlines, examinations, activities, responsibilities. In the midst of the echoes, can you actually hear the gentle whispers of God?

God lead us into the wilderness so that we can hear His voice.

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalm 46:10

From Duck to Swan
Signing out at 11:11am - 19th March 2007

The Lighthouse

2007-03-11T13:40:00.000+08:00

A lighthouse is one of the most important building for any seafarer. Its a structure, usually with a tower, built onshore or on the seabed to serve as an aid to maritime coastal navigation, warning the mariner of hazards, establishing his position, and guiding him to his destination.

Men of sea are often hardy men for they have faced many storms in their life and it is often shown in their weathered faces. Ask any sailors and they will tell you the terrors of the sea and the uncountable time where death was at their faces. Many lived through it and boasted about their bravery and courage, however there were some who turned their back against the sea and decided to be land-bound.

Christian life is a voyage. Wondering where or when did we ever set our foot onto the ship for the voyage? We've set sail with the Captain the moment we received the invitation. The invitation to eternal life. The Captain promised us that we will reach our destination but He never promised that the voyage will be smooth. He never promised that it will be a cruise. The only certainty in this voyage is that the ship can never be shipwrecked.

The sea is always unexpected, good weather and clear skies may be here for now but an hour later clouds of storm billows over threatening to swallow everything that is in it's path. Life is always unexpected, we may be happy and everything seems to be smooth sailing with bright sunshine but the next moment we discover ourselves being tossed in the raging sea of doubt, sea of pain, sea of disappointment, sea of anger, sea of sadness, sea of loneliness and all the seas that could take away the calmness of the voyage. In the midst of the chaos of the storm, we tend to lose trust to the Captain and tend to take control of the ship on our own. With our little knowledge of navigating in the sea, we tries to navigate the ship to the nearest way out of the storm. For each time we try, the deeper we get into the storm perhaps it may not be the same storm but its still a storm (could be a storm with greater magnitude). Some may find their way out of it but they may set their anchor at the nearest port and never set sail to the sea again.

Can you see the lighthouse? The one that flares its radiant light? Its just right there in front of you. I believe that most of us sees it but we tend to ignore it and when the ship has somehow hit a rock or about to be wrecked. Our heart sinks into fear, forgetting that the Captain is still here.

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." - Psalms 119: 105

The lighthouse. The light for my path. God's manual for the voyage is right there before our eyes. Its within our grasp. The manual that will steer us clear of any dangers, hazards and calamities from the sea.

Be reminded that the Captain is HERE and He is in command of everything. No one knows the sea better than Him. The hands that once calmed the raging storm at the sea of Galilee is here to calm the storm in your life. Perhaps you may not be facing any storms in your life, but let us be reminded that anything can happen in the sea. If we are ever lost in the storm, we should stop relying on our own strength to steer through the raging sea. Turn to the Captain. Turn to Jesus. He's there.

Let us boast about who our Captain is and for what He has done for us.
"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" - Galatians 6:14
Let us not be like the sailors that boast about their own courage and bravery but for all that Christ has done for us.

From Duck to Swan.
Signing out at 12.49am - 13th March 2007

The Ugly Duckling

2007-03-09T13:33:00.000+08:00

Have you ever read about the famous classic-contemporary story of the Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen? For the sake of those that have not and for those that have forgotten, here is a synopsis taken from Wikipedia:-

"A mother duck hatches her eggs and, while most of her ducklings are normal, one is gray, too large, and too clumsy to fit in among the others. Though she tries to accept him, the entire barnyard realizes that he simply does not belong and after a period of harassment he leaves (or is driven away) to fend for himself. He wanders for the entire summer and fall, for no one will take him in, and he nearly freezes to death in an icy pond. Though he is rescued by a human, he cannot live in captivity, and he goes back to the wild.

By the end of winter he is miraculously still alive. He comes to a pond in a park or garden, where beautiful white swans are swimming. He is drawn to their beauty, though he has no reason to think that they will treat him better than anyone else has. Still, he thinks, even if they kill him, he must approach them. To his surprise, the beautiful creatures welcome and accept him; gazing at his reflection, he sees that he too is a swan. The children declare that he is the most beautiful swan of them all, yet he isn't proud for a good heart is never proud. Because of all that he suffered he now appreciates his happiness so much more. "It doesn't matter that you were born in a duck yard, so long as you have lain inside a swan's egg.""

Don't you think that the irony of this story lies in the birth of the swan in the coop of the ducks? How did the egg of the swan ends up among the other eggs of the ducks? Makes us ponder doesn't we? As we reflect on this simple story, do we find ourselves going through what the poor ugly duckling went through? As we wandered on our own in search for a place we could belong and only to find that everywhere that we turn to, the doors were shut at our face. Life is filled with disappointments and disappointments comes in many forms. First of all, people will disappoint us. Family will disappoint us, friends will disappoint us, our loved ones will disappoint us. At the point of life when we find ourselves devoid of all hope, there is always a shining ray of hope that gives us the meaning to life.

The poor duckling was rescued by a man, our poor soul devoid of of hope was rescued by the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Ever wonder how did the duckling ends up by the pond? Did the duckling ever moved out of the places where he is familiar with? No. The duckling was found by the icy pond. Its natural habitat. The man came to the rescue of the poor duckling and mind you no one would ever enter into a forest in an icy cold winter.

Why don't we take a moment to think. Ever wonder how did we ended up at the feet of Jesus? Perhaps we've met him in a camp, after a life-changing experience, through a friend, through a stranger, through our parents, through our church. Was it our own effort to get to know Jesus? Or was He the one that came into our lives. Our natural habitat. To rescue us from freezing to death. The transformation took place. The process of turning from an ugly duckling into a beautiful swan happened over the span of winter in the man's care. The transformation of our lives took place and is still taking place in Christ's care.

"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Ugly duckling to Beautiful Swan)

Sometimes we just missed the whole point of being a new creation. Here is a good point that can be taken from the story:-

"He is drawn to their beauty, though he has no reason to think that they will treat him better than anyone else has. Still, he thinks, even if they kill him, he must approach them.To his surprise, the beautiful creatures welcome and accept him; gazing at his reflection, he sees that he too is a swan."

Sounds familiar? Am I worthy enough to be a Christian? Do i fit to be one? Oh if only they knew what I've done. How could I ever be with them? (other Christians) By being a new creation our old self is dead. It is gone. We are no longer an ugly duckling. Look into the reflection of the water. What do you see? Do you see yourself or do you see Christ? Do you see the beautiful person you are? If you are still doubting here's something to help you.

"For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again."
- 2 Corinthians 5:14-15

ALL. So there is no one that is left that is not forgiven as long as we ask. May we be as swans that reflects the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ in our lives. Let us follow the humility of the ugly duckling that bears the beauty and of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us be reminded it is Christ that has given us the hope of life and a chance to change to be a Swan. It doesn't matter how and who we were in the past, as long as we are in Christ Jesus today.

From Duck to Swan.
Signing out at 4.24pm-9th March 2007.