Tribute by Pastor Christopher

I had the privilege of knowing Zi On Kerk during his stay in Melbourne for his foundation studies. I first met Zi On at the International Student Fellowship (ISF) of Swanston Street Church of Christ (now know as CrossCulture). As many of those who knew him would attest, Zi On was a very humble, genuine and compassionate person.

It was my joy to be able to meet Zi On regularly for Bible Studies. In our exploration of Scripture and sharing of lives, it became evident that Zi On was really hungry and serious for God. At that time, I knew that Zi On had come from a family well known for their commitment and service to God. But Zi On would not rest on the laurels of his family’s reputation. He wanted a strong personal relationship with God himself. So, we would spend hours taking about Jesus, the purpose of life, and our joys and struggles together.

There is a season for everything under the sun. And our spiritual journey with the Lord is a process. It became clear that the next few years after leaving Melbourne would prove a testing time for Zi On’s faith.

But praise be to God who renews and refreshes all things in His perfect timing. I was very encouraged to hear that Zi On’s persistence in the pursuit of God and holiness had paid off! With a renewed vigour, purpose and hope in the Lord, Zi On blossomed greatly in his relationship with God and with brothers and sisters-in-Christ during his postgraduate studies in Brisbane.

I have no doubt that the instinct Zi On had to jump into the sea to save the young woman came from the peace he experienced in his relationship with God. Zi On’s search was finally over. He had finally accomplished and achieved what he had wanted so much years ago in Melbourne. He now had a strong personal relationship with the Lord God! And our Lord, in His infinite wisdom, decided that day that it was time for Zi On to come home and experience the Lord’s Sabbath Rest.

Zi On is a hero. And not just because of his bravery. He is a hero because he did not let anything get in the way of his pursuit of God. God had already found Zi On many years ago, even before his time in Melbourne; but God had allowed Zi On to pursue Him wholeheartedly in his time in Australia. The goal of the Christian life is to know intimately our Lord Jesus Christ. Even though Zi On’s life may seem short to us, but he had achieved his goal.

I pray and wish that all his friends, including myself, throughout Australia and Malaysia, will learn from Zi On’s example. Zi On showed us the better way of love in Christ. May we have the courage to lay down our lives for Jesus and others if the Lord should so desire for us to do so.

We at ISF are proud to have known Zi On. Zi On epitomizes what it means to deny ourselves, take up the Cross and follow Jesus. Thank you Lord for making our lives more meaningful by allowing us to cross paths with your dear son. And thank you Lord for the encouragement that we will meet Zi On again on that special day when you return. We are sad but not in despair for we have hope that will not fail us. Give us your strength to live victoriously and joyously for you each day. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen.

Christopher Ngo

Associate Pastor, International Student Ministry

CrossCulture Church of Christ, Melbourne, Australia