The Swallow was born in the city, in a little-known part of the world called Malaysia. Soon after her family moved their home to a new locality, she was allowed to attend a Sunday School which was within walking distance.
Sunday after Sunday, she heard many stories from the Bible. Most of the stories centred around a man called Jesus Christ. After the stories, the teachers would ask the children to memorise a Bible verse. The following week, the Swallow would recite the verse and when it was done correctly, she would be given a sticker. The Swallow strived to learnt the verse well as the sticker seemed like a badge of honour, and she would display the sticker proudly to her siblings who were not allowed to attend the Sunday School then.
She learnt many songs and choruses that told of God and His love, and that also mentioned the man Jesus Christ. She soon learnt that Jesus Christ was not only a man, but He was God too. She learnt that because of the naughty things she does, she could not go to heaven. Now the Swallow was an active child and was constantly getting into trouble with her parents and teachers. As far as she could understand, she wanted to go to heaven and if believing in Jesus Christ would bring her to heaven, she would believe in Him then.
When circumstances were tough, the Swallow found herself singing many of these songs and choruses. Memory verses would also be brought to mind whenever she felt sad, alone and afraid. One such occasion came when she and her siblings stayed with her popo for a few nights. She and her siblings would sleep in the hall as the house was small. There were many idols in her popo's hall, and on the first night, the look of the idols caused the Swallow to fear closing her eyes. The loud ticking of the clock in the hall, coupled with her wild imagination, made her uneasy too. She was unable to sleep although her siblings were sleeping soundly. It was then that she remembered a chorus she had been singing often in Sunday School...
JESUS LOVES ME (author unknown)
Jesus loves me, this I know
For the Bible tells me so
Little ones to Him belong
They are weak, but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me
Yes, Jesus loves me
Yes, Jesus loves me
The Bible tells me so.
In her little heart, she cried out to the Lord Jesus. She asked Him to please take away her fears and let her be able to sleep. Sleep came quickly then, and for the next few nights at her popo's house, the Swallow no longer tossed and turned in bed. Each night, she asked the Lord Jesus to help her. That was the start of a journey towards knowing who God is, and what He has done for her.
Over the years, she learnt more about Jesus Christ the Son of God, and the Lord God His Father. Each time when she felt she had been extra naughty, she would again ask the Lord Jesus to help her to be good. She wanted to go to heaven very much. In her final year of primary school, she finally understood what belief in the Lord Jesus Christ was really about, and she trusted Him completely as her Saviour, Lord and King.
No, it did not mean that the Swallow was not naughty anymore. It simply meant that when she did wrong and asked the Lord God to forgive her, she is forgiven because of Jesus' death on the cross. The Bible says in Romans 6 : 23 (NIV), "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Jesus has paid that price when He, as the perfect Lamb of God, died on the cross for men's sins. The Swallow's past sins, present sins and future sins have all been forgiven. She is righteous not because of her own works (that will fail time and time she does wrong), but because of the perfect sacrifice that Jesus made, once and for all.
As she grew physically, she experienced God's love constantly in her life and this caused her love for Him to grow. Her faith and trust in Him also grew.
When the Swallow was led to start a new life in Singapore, it was with a bit of trepidation, but with a giant leap of faith too in her Lord God, who became even more real to her. She saw His hand of blessing in the life she was called to. It is the Swallow's greatest desire that in all things, she will glorify and honour Him.
Philippians 3 : 14 (NKJV)
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
HE'S MY LIFE, HE'S MY LIGHT (author unknown)
He's my Life, He's my Light
He fills me with delight
Jesus Christ is my Saviour
And I trust in His might
He's my King
Everything
I have is His own
When I'm living for Jesus alone!
No, there is no looking back. The Swallow can now only look forward to the day when the Lord Jesus Christ comes again for her. And while waiting for His return, she will strive to follow Him wherever He leads her.
Tuesday 28 September 2010
Monday 27 September 2010
Dare to Run
The Swallow is NOT a runner. When she participated in the cross-country races held during her school-going years, her target would be just to finish the race and get the minimum one point. She knew the top-ten runners' list would forever remain out of her reach.
How does one run a race? The Swallow cannot speak for others, but to her, it is about her focus. When she ran in the cross-country races, she focused on these aspects...
It has always been the Swallow's goal to do her best. At first, it was to avoid the scoldings from her parents and teachers when she did not do her best. Later on, when she had tasted of God's love and had believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, it was with a grateful heart that she wanted to do her best, to give God the glory and honour that He deserves.
In her believer's race, it is always a constant struggle for the Swallow to do her best. So much easier it is to just relax, not to bother, not to care. Well, that's the sinful nature in her, wanting always to please herself instead of the Lord God. So it is that when she has such thoughts and feelings, she has to bring her focus back on her reason for living - the Lord Jesus Christ.
In the Lord Jesus Christ, she has a Saviour - One who has gone through much more than what she has endured when He had His race to run on earth so He understands what she has in her heart. As she is on His team, when He was victorious in His race, the Swallow too is counted as victorious. What comfort it is to trust in One such as this!
DARE TO RUN (author unknown)
The assembly of the faithful
Surrounding yet unseen
Is gathered as a witness to the race
And on the track awaiting
Are the runners of today
The call has come for each to take his place
The road ahead is narrow
The way is sometimes steep
And only the committed claim the prize
But standing at the finish
With arms outstretched to greet us
Is the One who has endured the race
And paid the final price...
Dare to run, with our eyes fixed on Jesus
Following the footsteps of the One who's gone before us
Dare to run, with the power of His Spirit
Called to be victors in a race already won
Dare to run!
We must have our Saviour's vision, compassion for the lost
Courage for the future, love at any cost
Dare to run, with our eyes fixed on Jesus
Following the footsteps of the One who's gone before us
Dare to run, with the power of His Spirit
Called to be victors in a race already won
Dare to run
Called to be victors in a race already won
Dare to run!
How does one run a race? The Swallow cannot speak for others, but to her, it is about her focus. When she ran in the cross-country races, she focused on these aspects...
- the finishing line - no giving up, no matter how difficult the race
- the time - in order to get the minimum one point, she had to finish within the time limit
- the pacing - knowing her limits and keeping her breathing regular (the first time she ran, she paced herself with her friends who ran much faster, quickly found herself out of breath and although she finished the event, did not manage to do it in time and thus failed to get the minimum one point)
- the training - practice runs week after week
- the cheerleaders - those who continuously encouraged her not to give up
- the satisfaction - yes!
- the cuts and bruises
- the pain in her sides
- the snide laughter of some who finished much earlier
It has always been the Swallow's goal to do her best. At first, it was to avoid the scoldings from her parents and teachers when she did not do her best. Later on, when she had tasted of God's love and had believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, it was with a grateful heart that she wanted to do her best, to give God the glory and honour that He deserves.
In her believer's race, it is always a constant struggle for the Swallow to do her best. So much easier it is to just relax, not to bother, not to care. Well, that's the sinful nature in her, wanting always to please herself instead of the Lord God. So it is that when she has such thoughts and feelings, she has to bring her focus back on her reason for living - the Lord Jesus Christ.
In the Lord Jesus Christ, she has a Saviour - One who has gone through much more than what she has endured when He had His race to run on earth so He understands what she has in her heart. As she is on His team, when He was victorious in His race, the Swallow too is counted as victorious. What comfort it is to trust in One such as this!
DARE TO RUN (author unknown)
The assembly of the faithful
Surrounding yet unseen
Is gathered as a witness to the race
And on the track awaiting
Are the runners of today
The call has come for each to take his place
The road ahead is narrow
The way is sometimes steep
And only the committed claim the prize
But standing at the finish
With arms outstretched to greet us
Is the One who has endured the race
And paid the final price...
Dare to run, with our eyes fixed on Jesus
Following the footsteps of the One who's gone before us
Dare to run, with the power of His Spirit
Called to be victors in a race already won
Dare to run!
We must have our Saviour's vision, compassion for the lost
Courage for the future, love at any cost
Dare to run, with our eyes fixed on Jesus
Following the footsteps of the One who's gone before us
Dare to run, with the power of His Spirit
Called to be victors in a race already won
Dare to run
Called to be victors in a race already won
Dare to run!
Thursday 23 September 2010
Pothos Plant
The Swallow was given a Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum) plant when one of her friends made a move to the USA. The Pothos plant is a hardy plant. Able to withstand both sunlit and shaded conditions, the Pothos plant is a fitting plant for the Swallow, whose connection with plants is still a work-in-progress.
When the Pothos plant was first given to the Swallow, it was a thriving plant. Coping with growing children coupled with a growing demand of her time from various directions, the Swallow did not give the plant proper care. Although the plant did not thrive, it did not die. All that happened was that a few leaves turned brown when it was underwatered, then when it was watered, it put out new shoots.
However, over the years, the number of leaves that grew became less and less while the number of leaves that turned brown became more and more. When the Swallow was finally able to channel some of her time to the care of plants, she realised that the Pothos plant was a shade of its original vigour. It was time for some drastic measures...
Out of the pot came the remaining plants. The roots were gently but thoroughly washed in water to remove all the soil, then all the plants were placed into a crystal trophy vase, received from the Swallow's mate's office (it was going to be thrown away!), with the intention of growing the plants in water.
Maybe the depth was too much, or maybe the plants had gone into a state of shock, but the Pothos plants started to drop their leaves. Looking miserable in the now-too-huge-a-container, the Swallow decided to restart the planting experience with a smaller container.
As mentioned in a previous post, the Pothos plants are still around to this day, maybe a shade of its original glory, but on its way (hopefully) to recovery.
The Swallow hopes that in life, she will be as hardy as the Pothos plant, able to withstand some hardships and coming out stronger, and she will - for her faith and trust is in the One who is a far better caregiver, One who will always be there for her.
When the Pothos plant was first given to the Swallow, it was a thriving plant. Coping with growing children coupled with a growing demand of her time from various directions, the Swallow did not give the plant proper care. Although the plant did not thrive, it did not die. All that happened was that a few leaves turned brown when it was underwatered, then when it was watered, it put out new shoots.
However, over the years, the number of leaves that grew became less and less while the number of leaves that turned brown became more and more. When the Swallow was finally able to channel some of her time to the care of plants, she realised that the Pothos plant was a shade of its original vigour. It was time for some drastic measures...
 |
| Growing Pothos (the one on the right) in water |
Maybe the depth was too much, or maybe the plants had gone into a state of shock, but the Pothos plants started to drop their leaves. Looking miserable in the now-too-huge-a-container, the Swallow decided to restart the planting experience with a smaller container.
As mentioned in a previous post, the Pothos plants are still around to this day, maybe a shade of its original glory, but on its way (hopefully) to recovery.
The Swallow hopes that in life, she will be as hardy as the Pothos plant, able to withstand some hardships and coming out stronger, and she will - for her faith and trust is in the One who is a far better caregiver, One who will always be there for her.
Wednesday 22 September 2010
Mentoring & Discipleship
In the seventh session of "Biblical Principles for Leading with Love", the issues of mentoring and discipleship were discussed. Mentoring is part of the fabric of life. It is not limited to the Christian circle as there are many ideas which can be found in, and also widely used by the secular side. However, as Christians, the Swallow and her coursemates looked at and discussed mentoring from the Christian context.
For the Christian, mentoring and discipleship can be said as having two sides of a coin. They go hand in hand. When mentoring is actively practiced, strong disciples are made. When it is passively practiced, disciples are still made but these may be weak. The ratio for mentor and disciple is also not fixed, as there are often times when one person may be under the guidance of several mentors.
For a vibrant Christian mentor-disciple relationship, the following components are needed
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: if one falls down, his friend can help him up, but pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Although the above verses are often used in messages presented at Christian weddings, the verses are also relevant to the mentor-disciple relationship. A Christ-centred mentor-disciple relationship will thrive, and both parties will emerge stronger in their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
In essence, the process of mentoring in the Christian context is actually under-mentoring. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 11 : 1 (NKJV), "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ."
It is true. The Lord Jesus was and is the prime model of mentoring. While He was on earth, He was the perfect example for the twelve chosen disciples and the many others who also followed Him. He was involved with people. He was always available. There were times, recorded in the Bible, when He went away to be alone yet when people sought Him out, He never rejected them. His character was blameless and pure.
In His teaching, the Lord Jesus spoke with authority, and He spoke plainly. Imagine, children and fishermen counted as His followers! His words brought life and hope to all who heard Him. He was patient with His disciples when they could not understand Him. However, He also spoke with truth. He never compromised the truth. There were many occasions recorded in the Bible where the Jewish leaders and temple authorities were offended by Him. Also, when the disciples spoke or did wrongly, He corrected them gently but firmly.
The Lord Jesus had compassion on those who followed Him. He fed them when they were hungry, with spiritual food as well as physical. He caused them to think and wonder about His deeds and the miracles He performed.
The Lord Jesus committed His ways, in prayer, to His heavenly Father. He stayed focused at all times, even when the cross and death was before Him. He forgave, and also asked His heavenly Father to forgive, those who put Him on the cross. He died for these as well. He changed the course of history.
Mentoring should not be a life-long process. The ultimate goal for the mentor is to help his disciple grow in his relationship with the one true God, and taking responsibility for himself.
We all blossom in the presence of one who sees the good in us and who can coax the best out of us. -- Rev Desmond Tutu
For the Christian, mentoring and discipleship can be said as having two sides of a coin. They go hand in hand. When mentoring is actively practiced, strong disciples are made. When it is passively practiced, disciples are still made but these may be weak. The ratio for mentor and disciple is also not fixed, as there are often times when one person may be under the guidance of several mentors.
For a vibrant Christian mentor-disciple relationship, the following components are needed
- dynamic - it has to be an active and growing relationship where both parties are flexible and stimulates each other so that it empowers not only the disciple but the mentor as well
- intentional - there must be purpose and direction to the process of mentoring ie it has to be done in an orderly manner and not when one feels like it
- relationship - it is a relationship, where the mentor and the disciple become partners and spiritual mates for a brief period of time, anything from 3 months to 3 years (in some cases, even longer)
- trust - this is the key and the basis of the relationship where the disciple relies on, and puts his confidence in his mentor and vice versa
- enables - when done correctly, the process of mentoring enables the disciple to move on, and make possible a vibrant relationship with the Lord God
- maximise - this is where the disciple's skills and gifts are made the most of, for the glory of God
- grace of God - without this, one can do nothing.
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: if one falls down, his friend can help him up, but pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Although the above verses are often used in messages presented at Christian weddings, the verses are also relevant to the mentor-disciple relationship. A Christ-centred mentor-disciple relationship will thrive, and both parties will emerge stronger in their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
In essence, the process of mentoring in the Christian context is actually under-mentoring. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 11 : 1 (NKJV), "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ."
It is true. The Lord Jesus was and is the prime model of mentoring. While He was on earth, He was the perfect example for the twelve chosen disciples and the many others who also followed Him. He was involved with people. He was always available. There were times, recorded in the Bible, when He went away to be alone yet when people sought Him out, He never rejected them. His character was blameless and pure.
In His teaching, the Lord Jesus spoke with authority, and He spoke plainly. Imagine, children and fishermen counted as His followers! His words brought life and hope to all who heard Him. He was patient with His disciples when they could not understand Him. However, He also spoke with truth. He never compromised the truth. There were many occasions recorded in the Bible where the Jewish leaders and temple authorities were offended by Him. Also, when the disciples spoke or did wrongly, He corrected them gently but firmly.
The Lord Jesus had compassion on those who followed Him. He fed them when they were hungry, with spiritual food as well as physical. He caused them to think and wonder about His deeds and the miracles He performed.
The Lord Jesus committed His ways, in prayer, to His heavenly Father. He stayed focused at all times, even when the cross and death was before Him. He forgave, and also asked His heavenly Father to forgive, those who put Him on the cross. He died for these as well. He changed the course of history.
Mentoring should not be a life-long process. The ultimate goal for the mentor is to help his disciple grow in his relationship with the one true God, and taking responsibility for himself.
We all blossom in the presence of one who sees the good in us and who can coax the best out of us. -- Rev Desmond Tutu
Monday 20 September 2010
Bearing Fruit
 |
| Chilli Plant has borne fruit |
The Swallow was away for almost two weeks in June this year, attending a camp with her local church in Malaysia then dropping in to visit her parents and siblings on the way back to Singapore. On her return, one of the first few things she did was to check on her plants. How did they fare? Did some of them die while she was away? She had done what she could to keep them alive, but did these actions worked?
 |
| Harvest time is coming! |
There was more joy when the fruit-bearing did not stop. There are four chillies borne todate. One has been eaten (so delicious!), one is turning red and two are growing longer.
 |
| Ripe Chilli |
Likewise, there will be much joy in heaven when the Heavenly Father sees His children bearing fruit.
Jesus said in John 15 : 8 (NKJV), "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so that you will be My disciples".
Friday 17 September 2010
The Works of a Leader
In the sixth session of "Biblical Principles for Leading with Love", it was mentioned that the works or actions of a good leader fell into two areas ie what one knows, and what one does. What one knows would be his abilities, skills and biblical knowledge. What one does would be his commitment, competence and compassion.
Salvatian is by faith, in the Lord Jesus Christ, alone. Good works will not save. However, good works are indications of true belief in the Lord Jesus. As Jesus said in John 15 : 5 (NIV), "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me, and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
So how is a Christian's work different from that of one who is not a Christian? For the Christian, it would and should be done for God's glory and honour. Any praise that comes would and should be redirected to the Lord God. The Lord God is the One who has granted the Christian the abilities, skills, knowledge (biblical or otherwise), commitment, competence and compassion in his various areas of service.
The session also gave the Swallow and her coursemates a chance to look at the differences between the wisdom received from God, and man's wisdom. In the Christian ministry and service, there is always a danger that one may resort to worldly wisdom instead of looking to the Lord God for His wisdom.
It was noted that the Lord Jesus Christ did not limit His contact with people. He welcomed all who sought after Him, from little children to those whom the righteous leaders in those times termed as sinners. Following in the steps of the Lord they serve, the Christian and the church need to
May the Swallow, her coursemates, and other fellow believers in the Lord Jesus be continually encouraged to press on in their work to bring glory and honour to the One they serve. How wonderful it is that their Lord and Master is the One who will equip them with the tools they will need for His work. All they need to do is to look to Him.
Philippians 4 : 13 (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Salvatian is by faith, in the Lord Jesus Christ, alone. Good works will not save. However, good works are indications of true belief in the Lord Jesus. As Jesus said in John 15 : 5 (NIV), "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me, and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
So how is a Christian's work different from that of one who is not a Christian? For the Christian, it would and should be done for God's glory and honour. Any praise that comes would and should be redirected to the Lord God. The Lord God is the One who has granted the Christian the abilities, skills, knowledge (biblical or otherwise), commitment, competence and compassion in his various areas of service.
The session also gave the Swallow and her coursemates a chance to look at the differences between the wisdom received from God, and man's wisdom. In the Christian ministry and service, there is always a danger that one may resort to worldly wisdom instead of looking to the Lord God for His wisdom.
It was noted that the Lord Jesus Christ did not limit His contact with people. He welcomed all who sought after Him, from little children to those whom the righteous leaders in those times termed as sinners. Following in the steps of the Lord they serve, the Christian and the church need to
- be united and exalt the Lord together, giving themselves completely to Him in the actions and attitudes of life that they may truly be worshippers in spirit and in truth.
- follow the instructions of the Lord Jesus, with the power of God the Spirit, as laid down in Matthew 28 : 19, 20 and Acts 1 : 8.
- build up and encourage fellow believers of the Lord Jesus Christ.
May the Swallow, her coursemates, and other fellow believers in the Lord Jesus be continually encouraged to press on in their work to bring glory and honour to the One they serve. How wonderful it is that their Lord and Master is the One who will equip them with the tools they will need for His work. All they need to do is to look to Him.
Philippians 4 : 13 (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Thursday 16 September 2010
A Matter of Perspective
As the Swallow was walking one of her young ones to school this morning, the young one started the conversation rolling...
Young One (YO) : Mama, are the days getting longer?
The Swallow : (not really knowing...) Looks like they are getting shorter. At this time yesterday, the sky was actually brighter. Maybe the sun has changed its direction.
YO : But Mama, I thought it should be the earth that changes its direction? The earth moves around the sun, right?
The Swallow's young one was right, wasn't she? It is the earth that orbits around the sun and not the other way around. This scenario expresses the Swallow's life perfectly (and that of other Christians too), where the central figure is and should be Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the One who gave up heaven's glory for her and the rest of the world.
When the sun is not seen, when clouds cover the sun in the sky, it is not that the sun has disappeared. It is still there. It is just hidden temporarily from men's sight. When the clouds break apart, the sun in all its glory will shine through again.
When there are troubles in the Swallow's life, or when she is besieged by problems after problems, His presence is still with her. She may lose her focus temporarily to look at the problems instead, but the Lord Jesus has never and will never leave her because He has promised and He is faithful. He is still with her. He will carry her through the storms of life. He has not and will not disappear from her life. Once saved, always saved.
The problems, the crisis, are like the clouds in the sky. They need to be broken apart, and the Swallow is glad that her faith in her Lord God is the tool which would break the 'clouds of problems' apart. Then, God's radiance and glory will shine through.
Young One (YO) : Mama, are the days getting longer?
The Swallow : (not really knowing...) Looks like they are getting shorter. At this time yesterday, the sky was actually brighter. Maybe the sun has changed its direction.
YO : But Mama, I thought it should be the earth that changes its direction? The earth moves around the sun, right?
The Swallow's young one was right, wasn't she? It is the earth that orbits around the sun and not the other way around. This scenario expresses the Swallow's life perfectly (and that of other Christians too), where the central figure is and should be Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the One who gave up heaven's glory for her and the rest of the world.
When the sun is not seen, when clouds cover the sun in the sky, it is not that the sun has disappeared. It is still there. It is just hidden temporarily from men's sight. When the clouds break apart, the sun in all its glory will shine through again.
When there are troubles in the Swallow's life, or when she is besieged by problems after problems, His presence is still with her. She may lose her focus temporarily to look at the problems instead, but the Lord Jesus has never and will never leave her because He has promised and He is faithful. He is still with her. He will carry her through the storms of life. He has not and will not disappear from her life. Once saved, always saved.
The problems, the crisis, are like the clouds in the sky. They need to be broken apart, and the Swallow is glad that her faith in her Lord God is the tool which would break the 'clouds of problems' apart. Then, God's radiance and glory will shine through.
Wednesday 15 September 2010
The Next Lap
The fourth quarter of the year 2010 is soon approaching. For the young ones, another academic year will soon be over. It is an important year for them as they will be facing a streaming process which will determine the next phase of their school lives. As it is, one of the young ones has just been asked to make his choice of combination subjects and he will need to make his decision by this Friday.
When his school principal had requested to meet all the parents at the beginning of the third term, the explanation of the streaming process was difficult to understand. However, having seen the combination choices this evening, the Swallow realised that it was not as difficult as it had sounded.
Well, the young one has made his choices, and the Swallow and her mate approve of his choices. As with his earlier choices of a secondary school, the Swallow and her mate are committing this matter to their Lord God. The Swallow is thankful that her young one has decided to take this matter to the Lord as well. The final outcome will also depend on his year-end results.
For the other young one, the streaming process is simpler and will only depend on her academic results.
So it is the next lap for the young ones even as they push themselves towards the end of the academic race 2010. The Swallow and her mate are cheering them on; to be diligent and with their mind set on pleasing the Lord in all that they do. As mentioned in her post "Well done!", it is the journey that counts. Any good results will be a bonus.
When his school principal had requested to meet all the parents at the beginning of the third term, the explanation of the streaming process was difficult to understand. However, having seen the combination choices this evening, the Swallow realised that it was not as difficult as it had sounded.
Well, the young one has made his choices, and the Swallow and her mate approve of his choices. As with his earlier choices of a secondary school, the Swallow and her mate are committing this matter to their Lord God. The Swallow is thankful that her young one has decided to take this matter to the Lord as well. The final outcome will also depend on his year-end results.
For the other young one, the streaming process is simpler and will only depend on her academic results.
So it is the next lap for the young ones even as they push themselves towards the end of the academic race 2010. The Swallow and her mate are cheering them on; to be diligent and with their mind set on pleasing the Lord in all that they do. As mentioned in her post "Well done!", it is the journey that counts. Any good results will be a bonus.
Monday 13 September 2010
Singing for My Lord
Music has always played a big role in the Swallow's life. She learnt to sing nursery rhymes in kindergarten, popular oldies during music lessons in her primary school, and followed by pop songs in her teenage years. When she started to attend Sunday School in her first year at primary school, she was also exposed to gospel songs and many other songs that Christians sang. Later on in her teenage years, she also tried to play the organ and the guitar, and learnt enough to play a tune or two.
Over the years, the Swallow would sing whenever she could. With her family, usually her siblings, or with friends. Singing along while songs played over the radio. Singing songs recorded in vinyl records and cassettes. Singing Christian songs or secular songs.
However, when her mood is not good, the Swallow finds that her spirit is lifted only when she lifts her voice in praise to her Lord and King. Instead of the focus on her problems, when her heart swells up in praise and adoration to her Lord and Master, her focus is redirected to the One who sees her through her problems, the One who has promised to be with her always; and her spirit is revived.
Hebrews 13 : 5b (NIV)
...because God has said, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you."
When there were talent shows in her secondary school, she had never garnered courage to sing on the stage. Yet when opportunities arose to sing in the church, whether in a choir or singing team, she was able to do so. She believes with all her heart that it was again her focus. When she sang for her Lord, her focus was to bring Him glory and thus she lacked the self-consciousness. When the motive of her heart was right, the Lord gave her the courage to sing for Him and Him alone.
I'M SINGING FOR MY LORD (author unknown)
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go
Singing of His wondrous love that the world may know
How He saved a wretch like me by His death on Calvary
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go.
I'm singing for the lost just because I know
Jesus Christ, whose precious blood washes white as snow;
If my songs to Him can bring some lost souls I'll gladly sing;
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go.
I'm singing for the saints as they journey home;
Soon they'll reach that happy land where they'll never roam
And with me they'll join and sing praises to our Lord and King;
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go.
Over the years, the Swallow would sing whenever she could. With her family, usually her siblings, or with friends. Singing along while songs played over the radio. Singing songs recorded in vinyl records and cassettes. Singing Christian songs or secular songs.
However, when her mood is not good, the Swallow finds that her spirit is lifted only when she lifts her voice in praise to her Lord and King. Instead of the focus on her problems, when her heart swells up in praise and adoration to her Lord and Master, her focus is redirected to the One who sees her through her problems, the One who has promised to be with her always; and her spirit is revived.
Hebrews 13 : 5b (NIV)
...because God has said, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you."
When there were talent shows in her secondary school, she had never garnered courage to sing on the stage. Yet when opportunities arose to sing in the church, whether in a choir or singing team, she was able to do so. She believes with all her heart that it was again her focus. When she sang for her Lord, her focus was to bring Him glory and thus she lacked the self-consciousness. When the motive of her heart was right, the Lord gave her the courage to sing for Him and Him alone.
I'M SINGING FOR MY LORD (author unknown)
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go
Singing of His wondrous love that the world may know
How He saved a wretch like me by His death on Calvary
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go.
I'm singing for the lost just because I know
Jesus Christ, whose precious blood washes white as snow;
If my songs to Him can bring some lost souls I'll gladly sing;
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go.
I'm singing for the saints as they journey home;
Soon they'll reach that happy land where they'll never roam
And with me they'll join and sing praises to our Lord and King;
I'm singing for my Lord everywhere I go.
Thursday 9 September 2010
The Character & Behaviour of a Leader
In the fifth session of "Biblical Principles for Leading with Love", the Swallow and her coursemates learnt more about the character and behaviour of a loving leader. The moderator for this session was different from the one who lead in the first four sessions. However, he also reiterated the same thought that one can be a leader in any situation eg whether as a man leading his family, as a woman leading her children, as a teacher leading his class or simply as an older person leading a younger person.
When the world looks at a Christian, they expect to see perfection, not understanding that the thing that separates the Christian from the world is not perfection but grace. When one becomes a Christian, he is not perfect in himself but in the Lord Jesus Christ, and what He has done on the cross for men's sins. However, because of the world's lack of understanding, character and behaviour are important for a Christian, moreso for a Christian leader who stands in public scrutiny. When the world looks at the Christian, let them see the Lord Jesus Christ. Let the Christian, leader or not, bring glory and not shame for his Lord God.
Without character and right behaviour, one loses his influence.
The coursemates dived into several Bible passages to discover some characteristics required of a leader. The list is a long one but some of these characteristics are
"Do not forget the culture of the inner man - I mean the heart. How diligently the cavalry officer keeps his sabre clean and sharp; every stain he rubs off with the greatest care. Remember you are God's sword, His instrument - I trust a chosen vessel unto Him to bear His name. In great measure, according to the purity and perfections of the instrument, will be the success. It is not great talents God blesses so much as great likeness to Jesus. A holy minister is an awful weapon in the hand of God. " --- Robert Murray McCheyne
When the world looks at a Christian, they expect to see perfection, not understanding that the thing that separates the Christian from the world is not perfection but grace. When one becomes a Christian, he is not perfect in himself but in the Lord Jesus Christ, and what He has done on the cross for men's sins. However, because of the world's lack of understanding, character and behaviour are important for a Christian, moreso for a Christian leader who stands in public scrutiny. When the world looks at the Christian, let them see the Lord Jesus Christ. Let the Christian, leader or not, bring glory and not shame for his Lord God.
Without character and right behaviour, one loses his influence.
The coursemates dived into several Bible passages to discover some characteristics required of a leader. The list is a long one but some of these characteristics are
- blameless
- husband of one wife
- not self-willed
- not quick-tempered
- sober-minded
- not greedy for money
- hospitable
- eager
- not as being lords over those entrusted to them but
- being examples to those they are shepherding.
"Do not forget the culture of the inner man - I mean the heart. How diligently the cavalry officer keeps his sabre clean and sharp; every stain he rubs off with the greatest care. Remember you are God's sword, His instrument - I trust a chosen vessel unto Him to bear His name. In great measure, according to the purity and perfections of the instrument, will be the success. It is not great talents God blesses so much as great likeness to Jesus. A holy minister is an awful weapon in the hand of God. " --- Robert Murray McCheyne
Cooking Disaster #1
When the Swallow was young, she had always wondered if the kitchen was a magical place. What did the adults do inside? They go in with raw meat and fresh vegetables, stayed a long time inside, and then they would finally appear with food that looked and smelt delicious. Magic!
The Swallow had tried on several occasions to sneak a peek at what her mother and her Popo (maternal grandmother) did in the kitchen, but would always be thwarted by Popo's sharp eyes. She seemed to have eyes on her back because no matter how quietly the Swallow sneaked in, Popo would know and she would then shoo the Swallow out of the kitchen.
The day finally came when she was allowed into the magical place if only to be the one to bear the delicious food out of the kitchen. Before her exit out of the kitchen, the Swallow would take the opportunity to breathe in the different aromas. It was the beginning of her adventures in the kitchen...
Well, where there are adventures, there will always be misadventures too. And that was true for the Swallow. In her pursuit to do magic in the kitchen, the Swallow had to deal with mistakes, learn to cope with these mistakes and (hopefully) be wiser for the experience(s).
One such mistake happened early in her cooking experience. When she stayed with her Ah Mah (paternal grandmother), she had bragged that she could cook. Actually, all the cooking she had done then was helping her mother to stir the food around the wok (a large Chinese cooking pot) while her mother was busy with other cooking preparations. The wise Ah Mah refrained from scolding the Swallow for her boastfulness. Instead, she asked the Swallow to have a go at cooking a dish all by herself.
The Swallow had no chance to eat her brash words. With her heart in her mouth, she went ahead to do so. After all, it was a golden opportunity...finally, a chance to do her very own kitchen magic!
The dish was Stir-Fried Chinese Spinach with Garlic. She remembered all the preparation processes she had learnt from her mother and did them accordingly - pluck the spinach leaves, wash them, and drain them; and flatten the garlic with the back of the knife, peel the skin off, and chop the garlic.
It was a defining moment. The wok was on the stove. The fire was turned on. The oil was in the wok, and heating up. Then the garlic was in, and tossed around the wok with the wok chan (a metal Chinese spatula). Next was the spinach leaves. Again, the spinach was tossed around the wok. So far, so good...
Gaining confidence, the Swallow then took some water and quickly poured it into the wok. Too late, she realized she had poured in too much water! She glanced at her Ah Mah, worried that she would be given a scolding. To her surprise, she saw a smile on her Ah Mah's face. When she was questioned by the Swallow, her Ah Mah just said, "Don't worry, at least now you know how to cook Chinese Spinach Soup."
The Swallow had tried on several occasions to sneak a peek at what her mother and her Popo (maternal grandmother) did in the kitchen, but would always be thwarted by Popo's sharp eyes. She seemed to have eyes on her back because no matter how quietly the Swallow sneaked in, Popo would know and she would then shoo the Swallow out of the kitchen.
The day finally came when she was allowed into the magical place if only to be the one to bear the delicious food out of the kitchen. Before her exit out of the kitchen, the Swallow would take the opportunity to breathe in the different aromas. It was the beginning of her adventures in the kitchen...
Well, where there are adventures, there will always be misadventures too. And that was true for the Swallow. In her pursuit to do magic in the kitchen, the Swallow had to deal with mistakes, learn to cope with these mistakes and (hopefully) be wiser for the experience(s).
One such mistake happened early in her cooking experience. When she stayed with her Ah Mah (paternal grandmother), she had bragged that she could cook. Actually, all the cooking she had done then was helping her mother to stir the food around the wok (a large Chinese cooking pot) while her mother was busy with other cooking preparations. The wise Ah Mah refrained from scolding the Swallow for her boastfulness. Instead, she asked the Swallow to have a go at cooking a dish all by herself.
 |
| Stir-Fried Chinese Spinach with Garlic |
The Swallow had no chance to eat her brash words. With her heart in her mouth, she went ahead to do so. After all, it was a golden opportunity...finally, a chance to do her very own kitchen magic!
The dish was Stir-Fried Chinese Spinach with Garlic. She remembered all the preparation processes she had learnt from her mother and did them accordingly - pluck the spinach leaves, wash them, and drain them; and flatten the garlic with the back of the knife, peel the skin off, and chop the garlic.
 |
| Chinese Spinach Soup upgraded with pork balls |
Gaining confidence, the Swallow then took some water and quickly poured it into the wok. Too late, she realized she had poured in too much water! She glanced at her Ah Mah, worried that she would be given a scolding. To her surprise, she saw a smile on her Ah Mah's face. When she was questioned by the Swallow, her Ah Mah just said, "Don't worry, at least now you know how to cook Chinese Spinach Soup."
Wednesday 8 September 2010
Good Meal for Poor Health
 |
| A Bowl of Macaroni Soup with Shredded Chicken to whet a poor appetite |
Macaroni Soup with Shredded Chicken
In her younger days, when the Swallow had fevers or colds, she was usually offered bread with milk (a mixture of condensed milk and warm water). This was a simple solution for a meal as there was no wastage if the Swallow's appetite was poor. A sign that she was recovering from her illness would be when thoughts of a warm bowl of Macaroni Soup or a bowl of Chicken Porridge assail her, and she would request for something more appetizing than the bread with milk.
Macaroni Soup is a versatile dish. It can be served when someone is feeling under the weather, or when he is in the pink of health. It can be served in an elaborate way with all the extras thrown in, or in a simple way by just putting some meat, a stock cube and pasta together. It can be served at a family's meal-time, or for a get-together between friends.
The following recipe is for Macaroni Soup cooked in an elaborate way. Yes, it does entail a little more time in the preparation but the time spent is well worth it. The soup, when cooked this way, nourishes and provides the body with a highly-nutritious fluid content. The aroma of freshly-boiled soup also whets the appetite. For these reasons, the Swallow will promptly serve up this version of Macaroni Soup when someone in the family is feeling poorly, or is recovering from a bout of illness.
MACARONI SOUP WITH SHREDDED CHICKEN (serves 4 - 6)
Ingredients
Macaroni Soup is a versatile dish. It can be served when someone is feeling under the weather, or when he is in the pink of health. It can be served in an elaborate way with all the extras thrown in, or in a simple way by just putting some meat, a stock cube and pasta together. It can be served at a family's meal-time, or for a get-together between friends.
The following recipe is for Macaroni Soup cooked in an elaborate way. Yes, it does entail a little more time in the preparation but the time spent is well worth it. The soup, when cooked this way, nourishes and provides the body with a highly-nutritious fluid content. The aroma of freshly-boiled soup also whets the appetite. For these reasons, the Swallow will promptly serve up this version of Macaroni Soup when someone in the family is feeling poorly, or is recovering from a bout of illness.
MACARONI SOUP WITH SHREDDED CHICKEN (serves 4 - 6)
 |
| Macaroni Soup with Shredded Chicken |
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 additional chicken carcasses (easily found in supermarkets nowadays)
- 2 leeks, separated into whites and greens
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 pc thumb-sized old ginger
- 3 carrots
- about 4 ltrs water
- 250g beansprouts (optional)
- 300g siow bai chai
- 400g elbow pasta
- salt & pepper, to taste
- fried shallots (optional)
- spring onions, sliced (optional)
- Bring water to a boil.
- Add the chicken (backbone side down first), chicken carcasses, white parts of the leeks, garlic, ginger and carrots into the boiling water. This will make the soup base. Leave the pot uncovered and bring the soup back to a boil over medium heat. This will take about 25 minutes. Turn the chicken over mid-cooking.
- When the soup is boiling again, turn off the heat and cover the pot. Leave the chicken in the pot for another 25 minutes. Remove the chicken.
- After removing the chicken, bring the soup back to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer the soup for about 2 hours or until soup has a pale white colour.
- Meanwhile, separate the chicken into pieces. Shred the chicken breast and fillet. Return the bones back to the soup for boiling. (The drumsticks and thighs may be eaten as they are or use them in Hakka Salted Chicken). Set aside the shredded chicken.
- Cook the pasta according to the manufacturer's instructions. Drain and rinse to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- If using beansprouts, rinse then blanch them in boiling water for 1 - 2 minutes and drain. Set aside.
- Rinse the siow bai chai. Blanch them in boiling water for 1 - 2 minutes and drain. Set aside.
- When the soup is done, remove the carrots. Slice them and set aside. Discard all the other ingredients in the soup.
- Add the green parts of the leeks into the soup and boil for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, put pasta into a bowl. Add the sliced carrots, beansprouts, siow bai chai and shredded chicken. Add the soup.
- Garnish with fried shallots and spring onion, if required. Eat hot or warm.
- For a spicy and sour kick, have a side dish of cut red chilli drizzled with some soya sauce and freshly squeezed juice of limes.
- If eating the chicken pieces as they are, serve them with some Garlic Chilli Sauce.
- Siow bai chai may be replaced by mustard greens or baby spinach.
Tuesday 7 September 2010
Lessons From a Pothos Plant
In her post "A New Adventure", the Swallow described her experience growing several plants in water, using a method called Hydroponics.
The Pothos plant was one of these plants. As the Pothos was said to be a hardy plant which could withstand little sunlight, the Swallow placed this plant on the dining table in the hall. Roots started growing, but some leaves turned brown and had to be discarded. The plant looked lost in the glass it was placed in. So it was transferred into a smaller glass container. After a while, the plant stabilized. There was a good root system. However, only three leaves remained.
Although the plant was not a wonderful show, it still showed green, and the ever-optimistic Swallow decided not to throw the plant away. A little green was better than no green. So the plant remained on the dining table.
The Swallow was diligent in keeping the plant well hydrated. Yet there was no growth, be it the roots or the leaves. Still, the Pothos plant stayed alive.
A couple of weeks ago, the Swallow moved some of her plants from the balcony into her bedroom. This was to allow some plants to continue receiving adequate sunlight as the sun had changed its direction and more sunlight seemed to be streaming into the Swallow's bedroom. With the vacuum in the balcony, the Swallow moved the Pothos plant from the dining table to the balcony.
It was a wise move. Several days back, the Pothos plant started growing more roots, and behold....a new leaf!
Some observations from the Pothos plant...
A popular song which children in Sunday Schools love to sing...
READ YOUR BIBLE, PRAY EVERYDAY (author unknown)
Read your Bible, pray everyday
Pray everyday, pray everyday
Read your Bible, pray everyday
And you'll grow, grow, grow
And you'll grow, grow, grow
And you'll grow, grow, grow
Read your Bible, pray everyday
And you'll grow, grow, grow.
Neglect your Bible, forget to pray
Forget to pray, forget to pray
Neglect your Bible, forget to pray
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink
Neglect your Bible, forget to pray
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink.
Yes, the Pothos plant was a good reminder to the Swallow...
The Pothos plant was one of these plants. As the Pothos was said to be a hardy plant which could withstand little sunlight, the Swallow placed this plant on the dining table in the hall. Roots started growing, but some leaves turned brown and had to be discarded. The plant looked lost in the glass it was placed in. So it was transferred into a smaller glass container. After a while, the plant stabilized. There was a good root system. However, only three leaves remained.
Although the plant was not a wonderful show, it still showed green, and the ever-optimistic Swallow decided not to throw the plant away. A little green was better than no green. So the plant remained on the dining table.
The Swallow was diligent in keeping the plant well hydrated. Yet there was no growth, be it the roots or the leaves. Still, the Pothos plant stayed alive.
A couple of weeks ago, the Swallow moved some of her plants from the balcony into her bedroom. This was to allow some plants to continue receiving adequate sunlight as the sun had changed its direction and more sunlight seemed to be streaming into the Swallow's bedroom. With the vacuum in the balcony, the Swallow moved the Pothos plant from the dining table to the balcony.
It was a wise move. Several days back, the Pothos plant started growing more roots, and behold....a new leaf!
Some observations from the Pothos plant...
- the root system - the Pothos plant had a good root system which helped it to remain alive and not die.
- the water - the water provided nourishment for the Pothos plant.
- the light - water alone was not enough for the Pothos plant to produce more roots and leaves. It required more sunlight as well.
- Jesus said in John 10 : 28 - 30 (NIV), "I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of My Father's hand. I and My Father are one." When one believes in the Lord Jesus Christ, his roots are in the right foundation. He is spiritually alive. Nothing can snatch him away from the Father's hand. Once saved, always saved.
- Just as water provided nourishment for the Pothos plant, God's word provides the Christian with nourishment.
- Just as water alone is not enough for the Pothos plant, reading God's word is not enough. The Christian must also meditate on it and obey it. Just as sunlight is to the plant, so is walking in the light of God to the Christian. He must be a practicing Christian, and not a NATO (no action, talk only) Christian.
A popular song which children in Sunday Schools love to sing...
READ YOUR BIBLE, PRAY EVERYDAY (author unknown)
Read your Bible, pray everyday
Pray everyday, pray everyday
Read your Bible, pray everyday
And you'll grow, grow, grow
And you'll grow, grow, grow
And you'll grow, grow, grow
Read your Bible, pray everyday
And you'll grow, grow, grow.
Neglect your Bible, forget to pray
Forget to pray, forget to pray
Neglect your Bible, forget to pray
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink
Neglect your Bible, forget to pray
And you'll shrink, shrink, shrink.
Yes, the Pothos plant was a good reminder to the Swallow...
Monday 6 September 2010
Kangkung with Fu Yu
Kangkung (also spelt as kangkong) is the local name for water convolvulus. It is a green leafy vegetable, with a hollowed center, and is readily available in markets and supermarkets in Singapore and Malaysia.
Traditionally, pregnant women avoid eating kangkung as it is considered to be 'cooling'. However, at an ante-natal class which she attended when the Swallow was pregnant with her first-born, the dietitian had advised the class that it should actually not be avoided. Instead, it can be taken in moderation as it is a good source of calcium. This was definitely good news for the Swallow because kangkung was one of her favourites!
It is no wonder then that Kangkung with Fu Yu is also a popular dish with the Swallow...
KANGKUNG WITH FU YU (serves 4)
Ingredients
Traditionally, pregnant women avoid eating kangkung as it is considered to be 'cooling'. However, at an ante-natal class which she attended when the Swallow was pregnant with her first-born, the dietitian had advised the class that it should actually not be avoided. Instead, it can be taken in moderation as it is a good source of calcium. This was definitely good news for the Swallow because kangkung was one of her favourites!
It is no wonder then that Kangkung with Fu Yu is also a popular dish with the Swallow...
KANGKUNG WITH FU YU (serves 4)
Ingredients
- 400g kangkung
- 6 cubes fu yu
- 1 small red chilli, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp light soya sauce
- 1 tbsp oil
- Break kangkung into 3-inches length. Rinse and drain.
- Blanch kangkung in a pot of boiling water (do it in batches if the pot is small). Drain.
- Heat oil in a wok or pot. Add the sugar and the fu yu. Mash the fu yu while stirring constantly for several minutes.
- Add about 1/4 cup water to make sauce. When the sauce is boiling, add the kangkung and mix well. Cook for 2 - 3 minutes.
- Garnish with red chilli.
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