Completed 5th Chemo last week on 17th Sept in Ipoh. Doing well.
I want to appreciate my wife for her support, especially last 3 months.
Here is the poem I wrote for her:
Forever Love
What a great blessing in my life
With a faithful and caring wife
Who is always nearby my side
Happiness laughed, sorrow cried
Promise for better or for worse
How gentle her soothing hands nurse
When in sickness or in good health
When in poverty or in wealth
Together passed the many years
We felt through lots of joys and tears
As my wife, sister and best friend
Through Christ, our love will never end.
Tuesday, 24 September 2013
Sunday, 22 September 2013
Race OR Needs Discrimination
NST Editorial yesterday said that 80% of the those earning less than RM3000 per month are bumiputras. Well, use the RM30billion to help these poor Bumiputras and also the 20% poor Chinese and Indians etc - why use the money to help the rich UMNOputras?
Malaysia in international news - TIME magazine. 1 error - ethnic Malays only 59% pop; 67% includes other bumiputras who are NOT Malays or even Muslims, and who are not getting the benefits of UMNO policies. http://world.time.com/2013/09/19/malaysias-multiracial-promise-marred-by-bigotry-and-political-persecution/
Good article on Najib's 1Melayu policy, no more 1Malaysia, no more needs-orientated policy but UMNO-crony policy. http://news.malaysia.msn.com/community/blogs/blog-najib-has-set-us-back-40-years#page=0
Malaysia in international news - TIME magazine. 1 error - ethnic Malays only 59% pop; 67% includes other bumiputras who are NOT Malays or even Muslims, and who are not getting the benefits of UMNO policies. http://world.time.com/2013/09/19/malaysias-multiracial-promise-marred-by-bigotry-and-political-persecution/
Good article on Najib's 1Melayu policy, no more 1Malaysia, no more needs-orientated policy but UMNO-crony policy. http://news.malaysia.msn.com/community/blogs/blog-najib-has-set-us-back-40-years#page=0
Sunday, 15 September 2013
Malaysia a VIP (Very Important Place)
WHY I THINK MALAYSIA IS A VIP
(written in 1963, while still an idealistic Form 6student)
On the willingness to share prosperity was the idea of Malaysia conceived. On the staff-pole of a straightforward desire for unity was the fourteen-striped ensign exuberantly hoisted on that 16th day of September 1963. And on the spirit of mutual co-operation did the people of the four territories march reassuringly together to pool in their resources and initiatives, and to crystallise Malaysia into a living reality. All these will undoubtedly justify anyone, who opines that Malaysia is a Very Important Place, from the accusation of being a victim of blind chauvinism. Moreover, such a cherished opinion has more than once been similarly quoted by so many noted personalities of the world.
The creation of Malaysia was mainly prompted by the earnest and fraternal desire of the Federation of Malaya, to liberate the people of British North Borneo and Singapore from foreign rule. In doing so, she takes a leading hand in embodying these territories into a common fold of freedom, harmony and hope. With Malaysia, the torch of democracy will extend its beams over a more extensive area. This is significant, if it is realised that encompassing the Malaysia region, are the murky glooms of dictatorship, military administration and pseudo-democracy.
Fortunately we have many responsible statesmen, and a conscientious electorate to make our democracy framework a working practicability. With the solidarity of a popularly and fully elected government, that is fearless of criticisms, unless these violate the tenets of democracy that we so tenaciously uphold, there is no imminence of insidious revolts or military coups. Such uprisings only thrive on instability and discontent. Thus, Malaysia sets a bulwark against both internal subversion and exploitation by rapacious alien forces.
When contrasted with the amoebic existence of the governments of so many neighbours, Malaysia is a Very Important Place indeed. The cordial atmosphere among the populace sets an example for the rest of the world to emulate. Malaysia is an epitome of congenial unity in diversity. In spite of the widely-differing racial ancestries religious practices, social customs and political affiliations, her people have intermingled with one another. They have relinquished all unnecessary former ties, so as to devote themselves to the moulding of a single national identity, culture and destiny. Malaysia flourishes on tolerance, as racial and religious enmity, persecution or discrimination are virtually non-existent.
It has often been said, that political sovereignty without economic sovereignty is empty in its social meaning. Thus, by being able to satisfy both conditions with the minimum of external aid, Malaysia is important by right. In all her policies, attention is constantly directed towards the fulfillment of the basic needs of a decent livelihood, coupled with certain luxuries for every citizen of the country. With more varied resources controlled by a far-sighted centralised body, as is possible with Malaysia, an even more efficient programme of complementary and collective development could be instituted. Such is Malaysia as we know it. A consolidated nation formed by willing partners having similar praiseworthy objectives. A promising land, a happy country, and a Very Important Place.
(Submitted for Essay contest during the movie “The VIPs”)
(written in 1963, while still an idealistic Form 6student)
On the willingness to share prosperity was the idea of Malaysia conceived. On the staff-pole of a straightforward desire for unity was the fourteen-striped ensign exuberantly hoisted on that 16th day of September 1963. And on the spirit of mutual co-operation did the people of the four territories march reassuringly together to pool in their resources and initiatives, and to crystallise Malaysia into a living reality. All these will undoubtedly justify anyone, who opines that Malaysia is a Very Important Place, from the accusation of being a victim of blind chauvinism. Moreover, such a cherished opinion has more than once been similarly quoted by so many noted personalities of the world.
The creation of Malaysia was mainly prompted by the earnest and fraternal desire of the Federation of Malaya, to liberate the people of British North Borneo and Singapore from foreign rule. In doing so, she takes a leading hand in embodying these territories into a common fold of freedom, harmony and hope. With Malaysia, the torch of democracy will extend its beams over a more extensive area. This is significant, if it is realised that encompassing the Malaysia region, are the murky glooms of dictatorship, military administration and pseudo-democracy.
Fortunately we have many responsible statesmen, and a conscientious electorate to make our democracy framework a working practicability. With the solidarity of a popularly and fully elected government, that is fearless of criticisms, unless these violate the tenets of democracy that we so tenaciously uphold, there is no imminence of insidious revolts or military coups. Such uprisings only thrive on instability and discontent. Thus, Malaysia sets a bulwark against both internal subversion and exploitation by rapacious alien forces.
When contrasted with the amoebic existence of the governments of so many neighbours, Malaysia is a Very Important Place indeed. The cordial atmosphere among the populace sets an example for the rest of the world to emulate. Malaysia is an epitome of congenial unity in diversity. In spite of the widely-differing racial ancestries religious practices, social customs and political affiliations, her people have intermingled with one another. They have relinquished all unnecessary former ties, so as to devote themselves to the moulding of a single national identity, culture and destiny. Malaysia flourishes on tolerance, as racial and religious enmity, persecution or discrimination are virtually non-existent.
It has often been said, that political sovereignty without economic sovereignty is empty in its social meaning. Thus, by being able to satisfy both conditions with the minimum of external aid, Malaysia is important by right. In all her policies, attention is constantly directed towards the fulfillment of the basic needs of a decent livelihood, coupled with certain luxuries for every citizen of the country. With more varied resources controlled by a far-sighted centralised body, as is possible with Malaysia, an even more efficient programme of complementary and collective development could be instituted. Such is Malaysia as we know it. A consolidated nation formed by willing partners having similar praiseworthy objectives. A promising land, a happy country, and a Very Important Place.
(Submitted for Essay contest during the movie “The VIPs”)
Poem from Book "Young Emotion"
You Came To Me
You came to me a hurricane
That blew with all its might
You tossed my heart a thousand ways
One dark and stormy night.
You came to me an arrow straight
Speeding towards its aim
Piercing right through my lonesome heart
It'll never be the same.
You came to me a lightning flash
Turning night bright as day
Luminating my empty life
But soon it went away
You came to me like morning dew
That wrapped the grass so green
Silently formed in midst of night
And left like breath unseen
You came to me like rainbow clear
A floral tribute to the rain
I beheld the rapture while it lasted
When ended, suffered in pain
Fleeting as a magic bubble
Floating high in the sky
It forms to thrill but for a while
Then leaves with a curt goodbye
Fare thee well then my loved one
I shall not shed my tears
I'd rather have a one - night bliss
Than wand'ring through the years
One moment you came into my life
The next I found you gone
I sleep to dream a million dreams
Wake a-new the early morn
You came to me a hurricane
That blew with all its might
You tossed my heart a thousand ways
One dark and stormy night.
You came to me an arrow straight
Speeding towards its aim
Piercing right through my lonesome heart
It'll never be the same.
You came to me a lightning flash
Turning night bright as day
Luminating my empty life
But soon it went away
You came to me like morning dew
That wrapped the grass so green
Silently formed in midst of night
And left like breath unseen
You came to me like rainbow clear
A floral tribute to the rain
I beheld the rapture while it lasted
When ended, suffered in pain
Fleeting as a magic bubble
Floating high in the sky
It forms to thrill but for a while
Then leaves with a curt goodbye
Fare thee well then my loved one
I shall not shed my tears
I'd rather have a one - night bliss
Than wand'ring through the years
One moment you came into my life
The next I found you gone
I sleep to dream a million dreams
Wake a-new the early morn
Saturday, 14 September 2013
Great News: PET SCAN NORMAL
Great NEWS! The report of the PET Scan done on Tues has shown NO evidence of the disease. However I would need 2 more chemo to complete treatment. Thanks to all of you for your prayers. Praise the LORD!
Slight complication though. Last week I had Herpes Zoster (shingles, or Chinese call "snake") on my left thigh and leg. This explained the aching pain last week. This condition is common when immunity is low (after chemo). The last time I had shingles was more than 10 years ago. So my 5th chemo scheduled yesterday has been postponed till next week.
Comments of Support
Thanks uncle Teoh! Praying for your continued recovery! In any case, be comforted that God rejoices over His people at all times: The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17) Daisy Leong
Im glad and so happy to hear that you are alright. I will keep my prayer for you. Cindy Lee That is really good news. Praise the Lord. Will keep praying for you. Liew Kok Choy
Dr always cheerful and lively. Really admire the way you carry on with your life at this challenging moment. Even happier to hear the good result from your PET Scan. People are starting to miss you very dearly here at the hospital. Stay Strong Bro. ASMADI MOHD BAKRI
Hi SK,...Happy for you...all will go well...Seela RAJ Wow. Praise God. Your best days are ahead of u, not behind u. Loke King Cheong
Very happy for you. You have great mind over matter, and your optimism is something to cherish. Don't worry about shingles. It is against our medical teaching that we do not contract chicken pox or shingles twice but I suffered through two episodes EACH, a total of four. Pohhwa
Very happy news , Soong Kee. Stay strong, Cheers, pohsoon
Well done Doc. Our prayers are with you. Your positive stance would take you through all these difficulties smoothly Best wishes Navin
The Lord thy God in the midst of us is mighty... Mighty to save n heal..., FAITH not seen yet believe, same like healing and miracles .. Lord Jesus, by Your stripes, You have made Dr Teoh whole.To God be the glory!Grace Goh
DID you have one week treatment for your shingles, anti viral therapy...If any recurrence, do have second course, rarely needed but I remember one patient who needed second course. Hope GOOD LORD gives you strength to recover fully, in the coming days. Jay Thakerar.
GREAT news. I was sharing, about how you took the negative situation and turned it into a positive one, where we all learn with you about love, care, faith, trust, etc. Thanks be to God for the His grace and victorious hand in leading the journey! aloha, cnlee
Great news indeed. Congratulations for the good medical result. I look forward to seeing you and many others at the Old Frees reunion. Kiew Kit
That is really good news. I am so happy to hear it and thank you for sharing it with us. Take care, thanks for the books and my prayers will always be with you. Zamzida Yusuf
Bravo great! I met HT Long today and we spoke if how we both admire you spunkiness! Rosalina
Good to know you are getting better. I see you have not lost your humour too! Great, you will be fine soon. Will explore your blog. JC Rao
Praise and thanks again be unto the Lord for this wonderful and marvelous news. "Bless the Lord, who healeth all thy diseases Ps 103: 3b.Mrs Liew and myself will continue to bring you before the divine throne of grace in our prayers. Liew Ah Fook
Everything is pointing towards a low grade lymphoproliferative disease with excellent long term prognosis and survival. Your guardian angel and all of us are looking out for you ! Bharat Jhaveri
In Christ's name, may loving Abba Father almighty God strenghten your immune system to beat off any unwanted cells but grow healthy cells by the power of Holy Spirit within you. Rev Frank Lin
Wonderful news about the medical situation! You can be sure that all friends rejoice with you, and pray that things will continue to get better and better as time goes on.We are with you. Dennis Lee
We are so happy now that the Pet scan has shown promising result. Praise the Lord. Best wishes and God bless you and family. Tang Seng Hee
It is good news indeed ! Looking forward to the Bombay trip with you in the pink of health. Adele
Yay!!! Praise The Lord!! 2 more chemo sessions and you are done!!! But in the mean time mom still dictates your nutrition and rest... Persevere a bit more! Juni
Congratulations and God Bless to hear that you have been rid of the cancer. Pray that you will enjoy good health from now and be fit to organize all the get-togethers. Ooi Teng Sun
Great news Soong Kee!! Herpes can be painful. Take care. Just 2 more doses to go and you can then concentrate on strengthening up and enjoying life!! Liok Ee
Good to know you are getting better n better with each update you give. Also your treatment is progressing well. God bless you n your family. Elinor Khoo Guat Eam
God is Good all the time..Dr Teoh..you would soon be fully recovered...keep on writing poems..like to read them..GBY Catherine Cheang
Truly Great News - thank you for all your updates. God Bless You and Your Family. Cynthia Too
SK, we are SO thankful. You have been fantastic as a doctor patient! Please say this particularly to your lovely wife also: Nancy, Well Done! Thanks be to our gracious God. And for now, stay healthy, take it easy - but drink champagne right now!!! : )))) Andree Lee
Delighted that all is proceeding well! God bless. Kadir
We join with you in giving thanks to God for the positive news and pray that he would continue his good work in your life.Andrew Cheah
We are glad to hear your miracle progress! Our prayers are always be with you. Stephen Soe &Lang
Glad to hear u r doing well. Spore premier Lee SL had NHL and was cured. Lee Boon Chye
It is indeed good news to hear that you pet scan was good. So sorry to hear about the small health problems you have been experiencing. Sakinah Ismail
Delighted to hear the good news. Sorry to hear about the shingles though. I had it over Chinese New Year and had to use traditional herbal treatment because all clinics closed. Excruciatingly painful! Now trying to get rid of the scars. Thanks for sharing the poems, simple and powerful. May the Lord bring a complete healing and strengthening to your immune system. Blessings, Choy Leng
Great news indeed! We rejoice with you over God's victory! He alone reigns supreme! We continue to stand on His promise "By Jesus's stripes, we are healed" May God richly bless you in the days ahead and restore you to fullness of strengh. Peter & Diana
Glad to hear the good news of the scan. Will send the mongoose to clean up the snake. Will pray for your full recovery. PTL indeed. Victor & Jaimie Moo
Am so happy for you that the treatment is working out well. Funny you mentioned about PET scan because I actually talk about it to my students when I discuss glycolysis . Cancer cells take up and metabolise more glucose and that's why can be picked up by the PET scan. Am looking forward to hearing more good news of your progress. King Kok
Great to hear the wonderful news! With your positive mindset, stoic disposition and faith, any battle can be won! Keep going and all the best. Ooi Poh Gek
Slight complication though. Last week I had Herpes Zoster (shingles, or Chinese call "snake") on my left thigh and leg. This explained the aching pain last week. This condition is common when immunity is low (after chemo). The last time I had shingles was more than 10 years ago. So my 5th chemo scheduled yesterday has been postponed till next week.
Comments of Support
Thanks uncle Teoh! Praying for your continued recovery! In any case, be comforted that God rejoices over His people at all times: The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17) Daisy Leong
Im glad and so happy to hear that you are alright. I will keep my prayer for you. Cindy Lee That is really good news. Praise the Lord. Will keep praying for you. Liew Kok Choy
Dr always cheerful and lively. Really admire the way you carry on with your life at this challenging moment. Even happier to hear the good result from your PET Scan. People are starting to miss you very dearly here at the hospital. Stay Strong Bro. ASMADI MOHD BAKRI
Hi SK,...Happy for you...all will go well...Seela RAJ Wow. Praise God. Your best days are ahead of u, not behind u. Loke King Cheong
Very happy for you. You have great mind over matter, and your optimism is something to cherish. Don't worry about shingles. It is against our medical teaching that we do not contract chicken pox or shingles twice but I suffered through two episodes EACH, a total of four. Pohhwa
Very happy news , Soong Kee. Stay strong, Cheers, pohsoon
Well done Doc. Our prayers are with you. Your positive stance would take you through all these difficulties smoothly Best wishes Navin
The Lord thy God in the midst of us is mighty... Mighty to save n heal..., FAITH not seen yet believe, same like healing and miracles .. Lord Jesus, by Your stripes, You have made Dr Teoh whole.To God be the glory!Grace Goh
DID you have one week treatment for your shingles, anti viral therapy...If any recurrence, do have second course, rarely needed but I remember one patient who needed second course. Hope GOOD LORD gives you strength to recover fully, in the coming days. Jay Thakerar.
GREAT news. I was sharing, about how you took the negative situation and turned it into a positive one, where we all learn with you about love, care, faith, trust, etc. Thanks be to God for the His grace and victorious hand in leading the journey! aloha, cnlee
Great news indeed. Congratulations for the good medical result. I look forward to seeing you and many others at the Old Frees reunion. Kiew Kit
That is really good news. I am so happy to hear it and thank you for sharing it with us. Take care, thanks for the books and my prayers will always be with you. Zamzida Yusuf
Bravo great! I met HT Long today and we spoke if how we both admire you spunkiness! Rosalina
Good to know you are getting better. I see you have not lost your humour too! Great, you will be fine soon. Will explore your blog. JC Rao
Praise and thanks again be unto the Lord for this wonderful and marvelous news. "Bless the Lord, who healeth all thy diseases Ps 103: 3b.Mrs Liew and myself will continue to bring you before the divine throne of grace in our prayers. Liew Ah Fook
Everything is pointing towards a low grade lymphoproliferative disease with excellent long term prognosis and survival. Your guardian angel and all of us are looking out for you ! Bharat Jhaveri
In Christ's name, may loving Abba Father almighty God strenghten your immune system to beat off any unwanted cells but grow healthy cells by the power of Holy Spirit within you. Rev Frank Lin
Wonderful news about the medical situation! You can be sure that all friends rejoice with you, and pray that things will continue to get better and better as time goes on.We are with you. Dennis Lee
We are so happy now that the Pet scan has shown promising result. Praise the Lord. Best wishes and God bless you and family. Tang Seng Hee
It is good news indeed ! Looking forward to the Bombay trip with you in the pink of health. Adele
Yay!!! Praise The Lord!! 2 more chemo sessions and you are done!!! But in the mean time mom still dictates your nutrition and rest... Persevere a bit more! Juni
Congratulations and God Bless to hear that you have been rid of the cancer. Pray that you will enjoy good health from now and be fit to organize all the get-togethers. Ooi Teng Sun
Great news Soong Kee!! Herpes can be painful. Take care. Just 2 more doses to go and you can then concentrate on strengthening up and enjoying life!! Liok Ee
Good to know you are getting better n better with each update you give. Also your treatment is progressing well. God bless you n your family. Elinor Khoo Guat Eam
God is Good all the time..Dr Teoh..you would soon be fully recovered...keep on writing poems..like to read them..GBY Catherine Cheang
Truly Great News - thank you for all your updates. God Bless You and Your Family. Cynthia Too
SK, we are SO thankful. You have been fantastic as a doctor patient! Please say this particularly to your lovely wife also: Nancy, Well Done! Thanks be to our gracious God. And for now, stay healthy, take it easy - but drink champagne right now!!! : )))) Andree Lee
Delighted that all is proceeding well! God bless. Kadir
We join with you in giving thanks to God for the positive news and pray that he would continue his good work in your life.Andrew Cheah
We are glad to hear your miracle progress! Our prayers are always be with you. Stephen Soe &Lang
Glad to hear u r doing well. Spore premier Lee SL had NHL and was cured. Lee Boon Chye
It is indeed good news to hear that you pet scan was good. So sorry to hear about the small health problems you have been experiencing. Sakinah Ismail
Delighted to hear the good news. Sorry to hear about the shingles though. I had it over Chinese New Year and had to use traditional herbal treatment because all clinics closed. Excruciatingly painful! Now trying to get rid of the scars. Thanks for sharing the poems, simple and powerful. May the Lord bring a complete healing and strengthening to your immune system. Blessings, Choy Leng
Great news indeed! We rejoice with you over God's victory! He alone reigns supreme! We continue to stand on His promise "By Jesus's stripes, we are healed" May God richly bless you in the days ahead and restore you to fullness of strengh. Peter & Diana
Glad to hear the good news of the scan. Will send the mongoose to clean up the snake. Will pray for your full recovery. PTL indeed. Victor & Jaimie Moo
Am so happy for you that the treatment is working out well. Funny you mentioned about PET scan because I actually talk about it to my students when I discuss glycolysis . Cancer cells take up and metabolise more glucose and that's why can be picked up by the PET scan. Am looking forward to hearing more good news of your progress. King Kok
Great to hear the wonderful news! With your positive mindset, stoic disposition and faith, any battle can be won! Keep going and all the best. Ooi Poh Gek
Wednesday, 11 September 2013
Clearing the Misunderstanding on the Use of Allah in Bahasa Bibles
Clearing the Misunderstanding on the use of Allah in Bahasa Bibles
Many Muslims and even some Christians have misunderstood the use of “Allah” in Bahasa Bibles. To clarify some of the confusion:
1) The BM Bible or the Alkitab is not translated from the English Bible but from the original languages, ie Hebrew and Greek.
2) The Hebrew word for God is El or Elohim (similar root as Al Ilah in Arabic) and YHWH or Yahweh for LORD. The Greek words are Theo for God and Kurios for Lord.
3) Biblical translators all over the world have used the local language terms for Elohim and Yahweh eg God and LORD in English; Dios and Senor in Spanish, Shangti and Zhu in Chinese
4) For 15 centuries, Arabic Bibles have used Allah for God and Rab for Lord (predate Islam) 5) The first Malay translation of the Bible was made in 1612, and Allah was used for God and Tuhan for Lord in this and all the subsequent translations till today.
6) Malay-speaking (and Iban) Christians have used the term Allah for more than a hundred years in Malaya and the Borneo states in worship, prayers and reading their holy scriptures. 7) Twenty million Christians in Indonesia have used Allah for years without any misunderstanding or objection.
8) English Bibles nor Bibles of other languages obviously do not use the Bahasa terms
9) Forbidding the use of the term “Allah” by Christians, not only infringes their rights to practise their faith but also lead to confusion. For example, is the “Tuhan” in Negara-Ku and Rukun Negara not the “Muslim God” or can Christians sing the Selangor Anthem where “Allah” is used?
10) Theological meanings between Christianity and Islam will always be different whether the term used is “Allah” or “Tuhan” or “God”.
Some Muslims have insisted that kalimah “Allah” is only for Muslims.
Can they please clarify whether kalimah Allah can be used by
• 20 million Arab Christians who have used the term since 1500 years. Are 200 Arab Muslims confused?
• 20 million Indonesian Christians since 400 years. Are 200 million Indonesian Muslims confused?
• Bahasa and Iban speaking Christians in Malaysia have used the term for 100 years. Are the Muslims confused all these years?
Why is it now some Muslims in Malaysia can be confused and want to prevent Bahasa-speaking non-Muslims from using kalimah “Allah” within their own churches.
Many Muslims and even some Christians have misunderstood the use of “Allah” in Bahasa Bibles. To clarify some of the confusion:
1) The BM Bible or the Alkitab is not translated from the English Bible but from the original languages, ie Hebrew and Greek.
2) The Hebrew word for God is El or Elohim (similar root as Al Ilah in Arabic) and YHWH or Yahweh for LORD. The Greek words are Theo for God and Kurios for Lord.
3) Biblical translators all over the world have used the local language terms for Elohim and Yahweh eg God and LORD in English; Dios and Senor in Spanish, Shangti and Zhu in Chinese
4) For 15 centuries, Arabic Bibles have used Allah for God and Rab for Lord (predate Islam) 5) The first Malay translation of the Bible was made in 1612, and Allah was used for God and Tuhan for Lord in this and all the subsequent translations till today.
6) Malay-speaking (and Iban) Christians have used the term Allah for more than a hundred years in Malaya and the Borneo states in worship, prayers and reading their holy scriptures. 7) Twenty million Christians in Indonesia have used Allah for years without any misunderstanding or objection.
8) English Bibles nor Bibles of other languages obviously do not use the Bahasa terms
9) Forbidding the use of the term “Allah” by Christians, not only infringes their rights to practise their faith but also lead to confusion. For example, is the “Tuhan” in Negara-Ku and Rukun Negara not the “Muslim God” or can Christians sing the Selangor Anthem where “Allah” is used?
10) Theological meanings between Christianity and Islam will always be different whether the term used is “Allah” or “Tuhan” or “God”.
Some Muslims have insisted that kalimah “Allah” is only for Muslims.
Can they please clarify whether kalimah Allah can be used by
• 20 million Arab Christians who have used the term since 1500 years. Are 200 Arab Muslims confused?
• 20 million Indonesian Christians since 400 years. Are 200 million Indonesian Muslims confused?
• Bahasa and Iban speaking Christians in Malaysia have used the term for 100 years. Are the Muslims confused all these years?
Why is it now some Muslims in Malaysia can be confused and want to prevent Bahasa-speaking non-Muslims from using kalimah “Allah” within their own churches.
Wednesday, 4 September 2013
Poem:What is Life?
WHAT IS LIFE?
What is life
If not for friends
Who even through the span of years
Are ready to smoothen your fears.
What is life
If not for family
Who cannot fail to be there
To shower their love and care.
What is life
If not for health
In the whole body, mind and soul
To keep us going towards our goal
What is life
If not to serve The needy, poor and the weak
With what we have, not what we seek.
What is life
If not for God
To pray, worship and obey
For His blessings each passing day.
What is life
If not for faith
In the Christ who calms the waves
And sinners like me He saves.
What is life
If not for hope
When we face life's obstacles
We can pray for God's miracles
What is life
If not for love
From the good Lord we receive
And to others we freely give.
What is life
If not for friends
Who even through the span of years
Are ready to smoothen your fears.
What is life
If not for family
Who cannot fail to be there
To shower their love and care.
What is life
If not for health
In the whole body, mind and soul
To keep us going towards our goal
What is life
If not to serve The needy, poor and the weak
With what we have, not what we seek.
What is life
If not for God
To pray, worship and obey
For His blessings each passing day.
What is life
If not for faith
In the Christ who calms the waves
And sinners like me He saves.
What is life
If not for hope
When we face life's obstacles
We can pray for God's miracles
What is life
If not for love
From the good Lord we receive
And to others we freely give.
His Way (Christian Version)
HIS WAY
(Lyrics modified by SK Teoh, sung to the tune My Way)
And now the end is near, before I face the final curtain
My friends, the Bible’s clear, it gives the truth of which I’m certain
Christ gave us Life that’s full, He’s the Truth and the Way
And more, much more than this, I did it HIS WAY
Regrets I have a lot, but then again they’re forgiven
I did what I had to do, is to pray and ask Him for pardon
Follow His chartered course, then to listen and to obey
And more, much more than this, I did it HIS WAY
Yes there were times, I’m sure you knew
I did the things I shouldn’t do
But through it all, when there was doubt
I prayed to God to take me out
From my fall, to make me tall,
I did it HIS WAY
I’ve loved my friends and foes
The joy He gave replaced my woes
And now as tears subside, I find it all so comforting
To think he did all that, and may I say not in a shy way
Oh no, oh no not me I did it HIS WAY
For what is a man, what has he got
If not for Christ, then he has not
Not just the things he only feels, but says the words of one who kneels
The Bible shows, He took the blows,
And showed me HIS WAY
And now the end is near, before I face the final curtain
My friends, the Bible’s clear, it gives the truth of which I’m certain
Christ gave us Life that’s full, He’s the Truth and the Way
And more, much more than this, I did it HIS WAY
Regrets I have a lot, but then again they’re forgiven
I did what I had to do, is to pray and ask Him for pardon
Follow His chartered course, then to listen and to obey
And more, much more than this, I did it HIS WAY
Yes there were times, I’m sure you knew
I did the things I shouldn’t do
But through it all, when there was doubt
I prayed to God to take me out
From my fall, to make me tall,
I did it HIS WAY
I’ve loved my friends and foes
The joy He gave replaced my woes
And now as tears subside, I find it all so comforting
To think he did all that, and may I say not in a shy way
Oh no, oh no not me I did it HIS WAY
For what is a man, what has he got
If not for Christ, then he has not
Not just the things he only feels, but says the words of one who kneels
The Bible shows, He took the blows,
And showed me HIS WAY
Monday, 2 September 2013
1969 Malaysia Day Message By T h e P r e s i d e n t of AIMSA (All India Malaysian Students Association) Dr Teoh Soong Kee , in a Merdeka Banquet in Bombay with 500 guests.
This year we are celebrating our Merdeka in a more sombre mood. The recent events (May 13) have shaken us from our complacency, at the same time throwing a challenge to all of us to exert greater efforts in National Integration. Hearts that are determined and honest need not be deterred by any tendency to pessimism. They certainly should not be warped into an air of violence and intolerance. Just as the previous generation has struggled for our country's independence, let the present generation continue the struggle for freedom - freedom from want and fear, freedom from violence and destruction. Yes, we must fight, but not to destroy. We must fight to UPHOLD our INTEGRITY, our SOLIDALITY and our HARMONY. We must persist in our MALAYSIAN ideals and hopes. Racial Groups For these hopes and these promises are abundant in Malaysia, a land big enough and rich enough, for all who stake their lives and spirit in the nation. Inequalities exist, as in any country, although in Malaysia, owing to our unique historical and economic development, they tend to fall into certain racial groups. However poverty is not peculiar to any group, nor is wealth a privilege of other groups. Feudalistic and capitalistic forms of exploitation still predominate and transcend any racial barrier. The struggle should then be directed towards these, rather than at any community. Let not over-generalisation blind us from the facts. Prejudices In this vein, AIMSA feels that a great responsibility lies in the hands of the student and the intelligent community, a role to be accepted with vigour. It is not sufficient merely not to do evil. We would be shirking in our principles, if we fail to stop disruptive elements, irrespective of any racial group. Too long and too often have the mischievous few of any group lead all of us into ransom and loss. So long as we remain passive, it will be us, no matter how innocent, who will suffer. Let the students start with ourselves. Let us shed away any old habits and prejudices in what we say, think, and act that may lead to misunderstanding and doubts. Let MALAYSIAN be our goal and our means. In the moment of rejoicing on Merdeka Day, let us pause and remember our tasks ahead. To all members of AIMSA, and especially those who have recently join our fold, let us make AIMSA an instrument to perpetuate our MALAYSIAN ideals while we are away from home. At the same time we have an equal responsibility to uphold our country's relations with the Indian people. Wishing all the best to our members in their celebrations.
GEMS from Daily Devotions August
Jeremiah 47:4 " The Lord is about to destroy the Philistines, the remnants from the coast of Caphthor." The Philistines were Israel's biggest rivals, up till the time of King David. Goliath was a Philistine. They probably came from Crete, were metalworkers and thus superior in sword making, and were dominant in the area now known as Gaza. The Romans renamed Israel as Palestine, to remove the identity of the Jewish land. The present day Palestinians had some origin from these people but had also been mixed with the influx of Arabs later. There is no Palestinian language but there is the Hebrew language.
Numbers 14:18 "The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation." Sounds harsh, but God is just and the sin must be so great that the consequences of generational sin can result. However the LORD is so abounding in love, he sent Christ to atone for us if we believe.
From Numbers 11, we read that in spite of the LORD providing manna (tasted like honey) food daily for the Israelites, they were grumbling to go back to Egypt for meat, onions, garlic etc which . So God gave them meat daily for whole month till they loathe it! So if your children refuse your meals and want burger, let them eat everyday for one month till they hate it!!
Job 5:17-18 "blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty for he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal.
Phi 2:14 "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraves generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life." What a good advice!
Hebrews12:4 "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Endure hardship as a discipline; God is treating you as sons.... God disciplines us for our good that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest or righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
Some gems from book of Job: 25:7 "God spreads out the northern skies over empty space; he suspends the earth over nothing" (bible knew this before even scientists) 28:28 "the fear of the Lord -that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding"; 32:23 "Yet if there is an angel on his side as a mediator..to tell a man what is right for him and say, spare him from going down the pit. I have found a ransom for him, then his flesh is renewed like a child's, it is restored as the days of his youth."
Devotion today: "Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm." Ephesians 6:11-12
This morning, came across two verses suitable for our epitaph: Paul in 2Tim3:7 "I have fought a 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 will award to me on that day. Job 1:21 "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised."
1Cor15:20,-22,32,56: "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive... If the dead are not raised, 'Let us all eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.' Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character.' 'Where O death, is your sting?' The sting of death is sin and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us victory though our Lord Jesus Christ.
One of my favourite passage: 1Cor13: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered. It keeps no record the wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Lover never fails"
1Cor: "I appeal you, brothers in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought." Praise God, almost all the churches in Malaysia are united under CFM consisting of Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists, etc, traditional, orthodox, charismatic, evangelical, even independent churches from all ethnic groups and languages. We may disagree on structure and styles but we agree on the Apostles Creed.
Corin 1:" For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God... For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know Him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe... For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom. ..Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God called you.." The gospel of Jesus Christ was preached by lowly men, but of great faith. We can all do the same, irrespective of our status or ability. We have the wisdom of God, not the wisdom of men.
Jeremiah 47:4 " The Lord is about to destroy the Philistines, the remnants from the coast of Caphthor." The Philistines were Israel's biggest rivals, up till the time of King David. Goliath was a Philistine. They probably came from Crete, were metalworkers and thus superior in sword making, and were dominant in the area now known as Gaza. The Romans renamed Israel as Palestine, to remove the identity of the Jewish land. The present day Palestinians had some origin from these people but had also been mixed with the influx of Arabs later. There is no Palestinian language but there is the Hebrew language.
Numbers 14:18 "The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation." Sounds harsh, but God is just and the sin must be so great that the consequences of generational sin can result. However the LORD is so abounding in love, he sent Christ to atone for us if we believe.
From Numbers 11, we read that in spite of the LORD providing manna (tasted like honey) food daily for the Israelites, they were grumbling to go back to Egypt for meat, onions, garlic etc which . So God gave them meat daily for whole month till they loathe it! So if your children refuse your meals and want burger, let them eat everyday for one month till they hate it!!
Job 5:17-18 "blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty for he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal.
Phi 2:14 "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraves generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life." What a good advice!
Hebrews12:4 "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Endure hardship as a discipline; God is treating you as sons.... God disciplines us for our good that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest or righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
Some gems from book of Job: 25:7 "God spreads out the northern skies over empty space; he suspends the earth over nothing" (bible knew this before even scientists) 28:28 "the fear of the Lord -that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding"; 32:23 "Yet if there is an angel on his side as a mediator..to tell a man what is right for him and say, spare him from going down the pit. I have found a ransom for him, then his flesh is renewed like a child's, it is restored as the days of his youth."
Devotion today: "Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm." Ephesians 6:11-12
This morning, came across two verses suitable for our epitaph: Paul in 2Tim3:7 "I have fought a 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 will award to me on that day. Job 1:21 "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised."
1Cor15:20,-22,32,56: "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive... If the dead are not raised, 'Let us all eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.' Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character.' 'Where O death, is your sting?' The sting of death is sin and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us victory though our Lord Jesus Christ.
One of my favourite passage: 1Cor13: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered. It keeps no record the wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Lover never fails"
1Cor: "I appeal you, brothers in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought." Praise God, almost all the churches in Malaysia are united under CFM consisting of Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists, etc, traditional, orthodox, charismatic, evangelical, even independent churches from all ethnic groups and languages. We may disagree on structure and styles but we agree on the Apostles Creed.
Corin 1:" For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God... For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know Him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe... For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom. ..Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God called you.." The gospel of Jesus Christ was preached by lowly men, but of great faith. We can all do the same, irrespective of our status or ability. We have the wisdom of God, not the wisdom of men.
Gems from Devotions July
Today reading Genesis 16: The angel of the LORD said to Hagar, "You will bear a son, Ishmael. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers." The descendants of Ishmael are the Arabs. Prophecies made 25000 years ago in the Bible are happening in the Middle East today!
King Saul started very well. He was from a small tribe, picked by God when the people asked for a king, anointed by Samuel, and filled with the Holy Spirit. He was tall and yet humble at the beginning. He won many battles for the people. He ruled for 42 years. Towards the end, his pride and jealousy led to his fall. Lessons for us, especially the leaders. (1Samuel 11-13)
There was a man named Virgil who was blind since childhood. At 50, he had surgery to restore sight. What he experienced afterwards, confirmed the Bible's account of one of Jesus' miracles. He saw bits of angles, colours, movement. Only after some time he could combine them into complete objects. In Mark 8:23, the blind man healed by Jesus said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around". Consistent with what is nowadays. Praise God for His Word!
Leviticus 18 warns us of the many sexual sins and perversions which were common among the people living in the land surrounding the people of God. The land was defiled, and was punished by the LORD for its sin, and the land vomited out of its inhabitants. Anthropologist JD Unwin in his study of 88 civilisations found that every society that extended sexual permissiveness soon perished.
Many people do not realise that the word "scapegoat" is derived from the Bible, Leviticus 16: "where a goat is chosen by lot as a scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD to be used for making atonement by sending it into the desert as a scapegoat".
A familiar song to sing direct from the Bible: Rev 7:10 "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, Praise and glory, wisdom and thanks honour and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever , Amen"
New Promise from the New Testament book of Hebrews 8:10...declares the LORD "I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will a man teach his neighbour or a man his brother, saying 'Know the LORD' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more" Comment: You can never make people good by telling them to follow the rules. God will write His law in human hearts, to make them know good first, before they can change their ways from evil to good.
Leviticus listed foods prohibited in the Old Testament. Christians are not bound by the strict dietary laws. However one advice seems healthy: Do not take fat and blood from the meat!
Read through Leviticus today. All the types of offerings: atonement for our sins, thanksgiving, fellowship, peace. All these fulfilled by Jesus Christ sacrifice on the cross. However we offer ourselves as thanksgiving to our Saviour God.
Mission team from St Peter Pastor Samuel Lamb (actual name Lam) in his church in Canton 25 years ago. He was persecuted and went to jail for 20 years. His church however grew!!standing room only in his services. He passed away recently at age of 88.
Micah has good prophecy as well: "The LORD will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore." (quote found in the UN building)
Today read Daily Bread on God's strength is made perfect in our weakness (2Cor12:9). The writer of the devotion on July 16 was under chemo and radiotherapy and felt weak. Then we realize we have to be totally dependent on God.
Familiar Bible chorus: "Be bold! Be strong! For the LORD your God is with you. I am not afraid. I am not dismayed. Cause I walk in faith and victory. For the LORD your God is with you" Joshua 1:19
I was given the booklet "God's Medicine" with prayers and scriptures for healing. To be read aloud three times day, later daily. One prayer: " Jesus took my infirmities, and bore my sicknesses. Therefore, I refuse to allow sickness to dominate my body. The Life of God flows within me, bringing healing to every fibre of my being."
Could not go to church today. So spent 90 mins at home worshiping, praying and reading the Bible and devotion. 1Peter: 24-25 "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." Amen
Today reading Genesis 16: The angel of the LORD said to Hagar, "You will bear a son, Ishmael. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers." The descendants of Ishmael are the Arabs. Prophecies made 25000 years ago in the Bible are happening in the Middle East today!
King Saul started very well. He was from a small tribe, picked by God when the people asked for a king, anointed by Samuel, and filled with the Holy Spirit. He was tall and yet humble at the beginning. He won many battles for the people. He ruled for 42 years. Towards the end, his pride and jealousy led to his fall. Lessons for us, especially the leaders. (1Samuel 11-13)
There was a man named Virgil who was blind since childhood. At 50, he had surgery to restore sight. What he experienced afterwards, confirmed the Bible's account of one of Jesus' miracles. He saw bits of angles, colours, movement. Only after some time he could combine them into complete objects. In Mark 8:23, the blind man healed by Jesus said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around". Consistent with what is nowadays. Praise God for His Word!
Leviticus 18 warns us of the many sexual sins and perversions which were common among the people living in the land surrounding the people of God. The land was defiled, and was punished by the LORD for its sin, and the land vomited out of its inhabitants. Anthropologist JD Unwin in his study of 88 civilisations found that every society that extended sexual permissiveness soon perished.
Many people do not realise that the word "scapegoat" is derived from the Bible, Leviticus 16: "where a goat is chosen by lot as a scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD to be used for making atonement by sending it into the desert as a scapegoat".
A familiar song to sing direct from the Bible: Rev 7:10 "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, Praise and glory, wisdom and thanks honour and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever , Amen"
New Promise from the New Testament book of Hebrews 8:10...declares the LORD "I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will a man teach his neighbour or a man his brother, saying 'Know the LORD' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more" Comment: You can never make people good by telling them to follow the rules. God will write His law in human hearts, to make them know good first, before they can change their ways from evil to good.
Leviticus listed foods prohibited in the Old Testament. Christians are not bound by the strict dietary laws. However one advice seems healthy: Do not take fat and blood from the meat!
Read through Leviticus today. All the types of offerings: atonement for our sins, thanksgiving, fellowship, peace. All these fulfilled by Jesus Christ sacrifice on the cross. However we offer ourselves as thanksgiving to our Saviour God.
Mission team from St Peter Pastor Samuel Lamb (actual name Lam) in his church in Canton 25 years ago. He was persecuted and went to jail for 20 years. His church however grew!!standing room only in his services. He passed away recently at age of 88.
Micah has good prophecy as well: "The LORD will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore." (quote found in the UN building)
Today read Daily Bread on God's strength is made perfect in our weakness (2Cor12:9). The writer of the devotion on July 16 was under chemo and radiotherapy and felt weak. Then we realize we have to be totally dependent on God.
Familiar Bible chorus: "Be bold! Be strong! For the LORD your God is with you. I am not afraid. I am not dismayed. Cause I walk in faith and victory. For the LORD your God is with you" Joshua 1:19
I was given the booklet "God's Medicine" with prayers and scriptures for healing. To be read aloud three times day, later daily. One prayer: " Jesus took my infirmities, and bore my sicknesses. Therefore, I refuse to allow sickness to dominate my body. The Life of God flows within me, bringing healing to every fibre of my being."
Could not go to church today. So spent 90 mins at home worshiping, praying and reading the Bible and devotion. 1Peter: 24-25 "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." Amen
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