₦airaland Forum

Good gesture.

I will advise HE Peter Obi to be mindful of certain things he says in the public.

Na by force?
Why must they mount pressure on him?

Nice update

So, I was in the right place! I entered the side and was astounded by the site I saw. If the outside of the building was grand, then the interior was even grander. There was a short driveway that led to a large canopy-
covered garage. I could see not less than six luxury cars parked there. Was Ruth living with a rich uncle? I thought she said she was staying with her parents.
The security bolted the mini gate. ‘Please, follow me.’

I followed him to the main entrance door of the building. I could see that it was a well secured door. The guy pressed the bell and waited. Few seconds after, the door was opened from inside and a young lady gave a smile to welcome me.
‘He came to see Sister Ruth,’ the security guy said.

The lady nodded and ushered me inside the building. There was a short corridor. We walked a few meters and got to what looked like a waiting lobby. All along, everywhere smelt of opulence.
‘You can sit down and wait for her here,’ the lady said. ‘She’ll soon be joining you.’
I nodded. ‘Thank you.’

I sat on one of the exotic and comfortable seats. The lady left me and disappeared through the corridor. I looked about the room. I could see what looked like a micro camera. For a grand place like this, I would not be surprised if it was a CCTV camera. I concentrated on watching the 32- inches flat-screen in the room. But what continued to surprise me was that Ruth never hinted that she lived in a place as grand as this.
Few minutes later, the lady that ushered me in was back. ‘Sorry, sir, what will you like to take?’
‘Er, nothing for now,’ I replied.

She looked surprised by my answer. ‘Really?’ ‘Yes. Maybe later, but for now, nothing.’
She looked at me for a couple of seconds and smiled. ‘Okay.’

I sighed as she retreated. Somehow, I wondered if the same Ruth I was looking for was the one that lived in that house. I didn’t wonder for long. Another lady soon breezed in with an apologetic smile, wearing a t-shirt and a bum short.
‘Good morning, dear. Sorry to keep you waiting.’

It was my dear Ruth. Unconsciously, I stood up from my seat.

Nice update.

Why was she behaving like she was a member of the convent?

‘Are you angry?’ she asked as she stared at me. I managed a wry smile. ‘Oh, no. It’s okay.’

‘Are you sure? So, why’re you frowning?’

I managed a forced smile again. ‘Really? Frowning? I thought I was smiling.’ ‘Don’t worry. You’ll soon have access to all that you want to do.’

I nodded. ‘Let me ask: are you still a virgin?’

She smiled briefly. ‘No, but I’m very reserved in sexual matters.’

I nodded. So, she was reserved in intimacy matter, bah? No problem. I would wait.


The following week, the days moved slowly. Just as Ms. Judith Aka promised, a new accounts clerk was employed to fill the gap left by Ruth. Henry Ogah soon showed himself to be the talkative type who would bring up issues like the latest European league matches or politics and politicians. I tried to show interest in his discourse, though with reservations. As for Ruth, there was no single day that we would not converse on the telephone at least twice in a day.

Saturday finally came. It was the day I had promised to pay a visit to Ruth in her parents’ house. She had earlier texted the address to me. I knew Isaac John Street at Ikeja G.R.A, and getting to number 280B should not be a problem.

I had told her I would be there by ten a.m. since the traffic was light and since I had left home earlier, by twenty minutes to ten, I was at the gate of the house that occupied the number.

I had to check the number again to be very sure that I was in the right place. I had expected to see a building that was at best a duplex, but what I saw was a mansion with a very solid gate. Was this where she lived? Inside a mansion that looked grand like this?

I hesitated but pressed the bell by the gate.
A side gate to the main ate opened and a security guard viewed me. Ruth must have made a mistake in giving me the number, I felt. All the same, I would ask the guard.

‘Good morning,’ I greeted the guy. ‘Good morning. Can I help you?’

I could see that he was the polite type. I smiled and tried to relax. ‘Sorry, but I’m looking for a lady by the name Ruth. She gave me this address and I wondered if this place is where she lives.’

‘Who are you, sir?’ He gave a courteous smile.

‘I’m Francis. Frank, in short.’

He smiled and nodded. ‘She already told me you’ll be coming. Please, come in.’

So, I was in the right place! I entered the side and was astounded by the site I saw. If the outside of the building was grand, then the interior was even grander. There was a short driveway that led to a large canopy-covered garage. I could see not less than six luxury cars parked there. Was Ruth living with a rich uncle? I thought she said she was staying with her parents.

I was going to miss Ruth terribly. She had been a good co-worker, friend, companion and recently, a lover.

On Tuesday, she resumed at her new place of work. The office felt empty without her and I wished she was around. I missed her conversation, her smile and her warmth.

‘The company will soon get a replacement,’ Ms. Aka said. ‘We need another accounts officer in that office.’

‘Yes, ma’am.’

‘But you must keep the work going for now.’ I nodded. ‘Yes, ma’am.’

That weekend, Ruth again visited my residence on Saturday. ‘Ruth, my dear, good to see you.’
We kissed briefly.

‘So, how are you and your new job?’ ‘Fine. I think I’m going to enjoy the place.’

I grinned and patted her right cheek. ‘Yeah, I can see that.’ We sat down and she snuggled up to me on the couch. ‘We need to celebrate your change of status,’ I put in.

She smiled. ‘I know.’ She opened her handbag and brought out a bottle of red wine. ‘Here. This is part of the celebration.’

‘Oh, good.’ I took the wine from her and read the label. I had not seen the brand before but I had no doubt that it would be a good wine. I went to the kitchen to pick two wine glass cups, washed them and soon returned to the sitting-room. I popped the wine and filled the glasses.

‘This is to celebrate a beautiful lady on the move. Cheers!’

‘Cheers.’

We clinked the glasses and drank.

‘You’ve not known where I live,’ she said. ‘When will you know the place?’ I nodded. ‘That’s true. When do you want me to know?’
She shrugged. ‘When d’you want to know?’ I grinned. ‘What about next weekend?’ ‘That’s okay.’

I nodded again.

‘So, how’s Madam Judith and the rest of the people at Apezlinks?’ she asked.

‘They’re all fine. I’m sure they all miss you, but I miss you most.’

She held my right hand. ‘Well, I’m here now for you.’

‘Yes, you are.’ I moved her closer with my right hand encircling her shoulders. But that was not the ultimate destination. It was a very gradual but determined movement.

The hand went down the shoulders to her back. But then, it soon moved in an encircling way to the bust. As soon as it rested on the cup of the bra of the right boob, she reacted.

‘Hmn, hmn. Not there,’ she protested lightly and removed the intruding hand.

‘Why not? Is it not part of showing love?’ I asked in fidget.

‘It is, but you have to be patient. There will be a time you’ll have everything to yourself, but for now, you have to wait.’

‘Wait?’ I asked almost in exasperation. Since our relationship started, the farthest I had gone was briefly touching her boob, just as it was the case some seconds ago. Why was she behaving like she was a member of the convent?

Her acquiesce encouraged me to wrap my right hand across her shoulders.

‘I hope you’re not thinking of taking me to bed,’ she said.

I laughed sheepishly. Not all men were the same, dear Ruth, I thought. I did not really fancy taking a lady to bed on the first date and I was not thinking of starting with Ruth.

‘No, darling.’

‘Really?’

‘Really. I’m glad to be holding you so intimately like this. Are you not okay with this?’

She shrugged. ‘It’s okay, as long as it doesn’t go beyond that.’

That precluded any further intimate move from me. All we had to do was to chat. Ruth was with me till early afternoon before she stood up to go. I accompanied her to the bus stop, thanked her for all she had done and waved at her as the bus she took drove off. I called her a couple of hours later to ask if all was well with her.

‘There’s no problem,’ she replied. ‘Thanks for your hospitality.’

‘I should be the one to thank you,’ I replied. ‘Hope your ride back home was smooth.’
She laughed shortly. ‘Yes, it was. Thanks for your concern.’ We chatted a bit more before disengaging the line.

Two days later was Monday. Early in the day, by six a.m., she called my line.

‘Good morning, dear,’ she greeted.

‘Good morning, love,’ I replied, wondering why her call was coming early in the morning.

‘Frank, I’ll be late in coming to work today,’ she said. ‘Hope no problem.’

‘No. I got a text message yesterday inviting me for an interview. I was expected to be there by nine this morning. In case madam asks about me, tell her I had to go to the clinic. When we see, I’ll tell you the details concerning the job.’

Telling madam that Ruth was sick was a lie, but I was ready to do it for her. ‘Okay, Ruth. Best of luck.’

‘Thanks. See you later.’

‘Alright. Bye.’

Hours later in the office, I not only covered Ruth up, I also did some of the work she should have done. She didn’t come to the office until few minutes to one.

‘Guess what?’ she asked, looking excited.

I looked at her wistfully. ‘You’ve got the job?’

‘You’ve guessed right.’

‘What! You’ve got that job?’ ‘Yes, yes.’

I got up to give her a bear hug. ‘Oh, congrats baby!’ ‘I’ve been asked to resume tomorrow.’

‘What? So fast?’

‘Yes.’ She opened her handbag to bring out her letter of employment and handed it to me. It was an oil company, Saturn Oil and Gas. I read quickly. When I got to her emoluments, I realized that by the time I calculated everything, it would probably be times three of what I earned.

‘Wow! This is good. Congratulations!’ ‘Thank you.’

‘So, when exactly are you resuming?’ ‘I said tomorrow.’

‘Wow!’

She wrote her resignation and went to give the administrative manager. It was getting to the end of the month, but she would have to forfeit her salary in lieu of one month notice of resignation. In the office, I was going to miss Ruth terribly. She had been a good co-worker, friend, companion and recently, a lover.

Jesus the Good Shepherd

In the Gospel of John, Jesus refers to himself as the "Good Shepherd" (John 10:11). This metaphor is rich in meaning and significance, revealing Jesus' character, role, and relationship with his followers. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus embodies qualities of love, care, and sacrifice, guiding us through life's challenges and uncertainties.

The concept of shepherding originates in ancient Israel, where shepherds protected and guided their flocks. Jesus draws upon this familiar imagery to describe his relationship with his followers. He is the shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep, demonstrating unparalleled love and devotion (John 10:11). In contrast to hired hands who abandon the flock in times of danger, Jesus remains committed to his sheep, even to the point of death.

As the Good Shepherd, Jesus knows his sheep intimately. He calls them by name, and they recognize his voice (John 10:3-4). This personal connection highlights the depth of Jesus' relationship with his followers. He understands their needs, fears, and struggles, offering guidance and comfort.

The Good Shepherd theme also emphasizes Jesus' role as protector and guardian. He shields his sheep from harm, watching over them with care and vigilance. In a world filled with spiritual predators and dangers, Jesus stands watch, safeguarding his flock.

Moreover, Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd underscores his desire for unity among his followers. He has "other sheep" that are not part of the current flock, and he aims to bring them together, forming one flock under his care (John 10:16). This vision of unity reflects Jesus' heart for his people, transcending divisions and boundaries.

In conclusion, Jesus the Good Shepherd is a powerful and comforting image. It reminds us of Jesus' love, care, and commitment to his followers. As we navigate life's challenges, we can trust in the Good Shepherd's guidance, protection, and provision. May we respond to his call, following him with faith and obedience.

"Now Thank We All Our God"
Words by Martin Rinkart (1636), translated by Catherine Winkworth (1856)
Tune: Nun Danket Alle Gott

> 1.
Now thank we all our God,
With heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done,
In whom His world rejoices;
Who from our mother’s arms
Hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love,
And still is ours today.



> 2.
O may this bounteous God
Through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts
And blessèd peace to cheer us;
And keep us in His grace,
And guide us when perplexed;
And free us from all ills,
In this world and the next.



> 3.
All praise and thanks to God
The Father now be given,
The Son, and Him who reigns
With them in highest Heaven—
The one eternal God,
Whom earth and Heav’n adore;
For thus it was, is now,
And shall be evermore.

"Now Thank We All Our God"
Words by Martin Rinkart (1636), translated by Catherine Winkworth (1856)
Tune: Nun Danket Alle Gott

> 1.
Now thank we all our God,
With heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done,
In whom His world rejoices;
Who from our mother’s arms
Hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love,
And still is ours today.



> 2.
O may this bounteous God
Through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts
And blessèd peace to cheer us;
And keep us in His grace,
And guide us when perplexed;
And free us from all ills,
In this world and the next.



> 3.
All praise and thanks to God
The Father now be given,
The Son, and Him who reigns
With them in highest Heaven—
The one eternal God,
Whom earth and Heav’n adore;
For thus it was, is now,
And shall be evermore.

I sent the text to her number. Within a couple of minutes, I received a text alert informing me of a transfer of one hundred thousand naira into my account.


* * *

It was during lunch break on Wednesday of the following week that Ruth indicated that she was ready to give me the reply to my proposition.

‘Before I say anything,’ she said, ‘I really want to be sure that you mean what you have said.’

I was nonplussed. I thought we had gone past that level. ‘I mean everything I’ve told you, Ruth,’ I said.

‘You mean you really love me?’

What a question. Did she think I was just teasing her, or I was a loafer who played on ladies’ emotions? What did she expect me to say?

‘Yes, I really love you, my dear,’ I enthused.

She was still unconvinced. ‘Do you promise to always love me, no matter what?’

I nodded. That shouldn’t be a difficult thing to promise, was it? I stood up and put my right hand across my left chest. ‘Yes, I, Francis Akowe, do hereby solemnly promise you, Ruth, that I will always love you whether in rain or in shine.’

She grinned. ‘Oh, come on. I didn’t mean you should be so dramatic. Alright, I believe you now. My answer is yes.’

I was genuinely happy about her affirmative declaration. ‘Gee, Ruth. That was good news.’

I went to her table. ‘Can you please stand up for one moment? I will like to give you a hug.’
She stood up and closed her eyes, like an innocent school girl about to be kissed. I gave her a hug, and kissed her on the side of the neck.

That was a peculiar kiss I had just made, and believe me I only did that to the one I really loved. She didn’t look disappointed that I didn’t touch the lips. That would be for another time when things became really intimate.

‘Now that I can see your seriousness,’ she said, ‘let me assure you that I will give you all the love a woman should give a man. Believe me, I will give you all.’

I nodded. ‘That will be mutual. I will do the same thing too.’

That was the beginning of my love relationship with Ruth. It turned out to be the most significant love relationship I ever had with a lady in my life.

That weekend, she visited me in my little abode. I had tried to make my

apartment look as presentable as possible. I tried to arrange things to the best of my ability. She came in around ten in the morning, looking even prettier in her jeans trousers and white t-shirt.

‘Hello, my dear,’ I greeted and gave her a peck. ‘Hello.’

I had decided I would take her to a nearby eatery to fete her, but she had a surprise for me.

‘Can you take me to the kitchen? I’ve brought some ingredients and I will like to cook.’

‘Cook?’

‘Yes, I’m going to prepare fried rice and salad.’ ‘Wow!’

I took her to the kitchen and stayed with her. We chatted over this and that while she cooked. She also fried some chicken with the meal. Now, this was remarkable. If I was looking for a lady that could cook as a wife, then I should look no further.

‘Wow, you surely know how to cook,’ I said the moment I took the first bite of the food. The meal was indeed delicious. After it, I brought a red wine I had kept in the refrigerator out. I poured it inside glasses.

‘I hope it’s non-alcoholic,’ she said. ‘It is. I’m a teetotaler myself.’

We clinked glasses and drank. I wasn’t very romantic, but I tried as much as possible to keep the conversation going and to look as keen as possible. We sat side by side on the couch. Tentatively, I held her left hand. Her acquiesce encouraged me to wrap my right hand across her shoulders.

Divine Love

O Love beyond all thought and name,
Eternal Light, consuming flame,
Who spoke the stars and stirred the sea,
Yet bends in grace to dwell with me.

Before the dawn of time began,
You formed the dust, then breathed in man;
You saw the fall, yet did not flee—
But wrote redemption's mystery.

No wrath could still Your mercy’s tide,
No cross could keep You from my side.
You bore the weight, the curse, the grave,
To show the world Your power to save.

Each breath I draw, each morning's hue,
Is touched by Love forever true.
In joy or pain, in peace or strife,
Your heart beats through my fragile life.

O King enthroned in realms above,
No crown outshines Your endless love.
Yet here You walk, so close, so near—
The holy God whom I revere.

So let my soul forever raise
A song of undivided praise.
For nothing, Lord, on earth or high,
Can match Your love that will not die.

Ask of Dr. Florence Daboh. I’m in her consulting room.’

‘Okay.’

I sighed and entered the one-storey hospital building. The receptionist directed me to Dr. Daboh’s consulting room. I met Judith already there, sitting on one of the visitors’/patients’ chairs. She looked up at me and smiled. She seemed delighted that I had come.

‘Oh, thank God you can make it, Frank. I’m so glad you’re here.’ I grinned. ‘Good morning, madam. Good morning doctor.’

‘Good morning,’ the doctor replied. She was a plump woman who should be in her mid-forties. She had a round face and an easy smile. ‘Please, sit down.’

‘Thank you.’ I sat down and stared at her.

‘Yes, without wasting time,’ the doctor said, ‘let’s get down to the main issue. Are you ready to make the donation?’

The way she said it reminded me of a previous encounter I had with a representative of a charity organization. She had asked the same question.

‘Yes,’ I replied simply.’

The doctor smiled again. ‘Okay. She took a small tube from her table, handed it to me and stood up. ‘That’s what you will use. You will spill your semen in it. Come.’

I stood up too while she moved towards a cubicle-like partition. ‘You can go in there. Take your time. Have a nice time.’

I grinned wryly to myself. A nice time indeed. What was nice about auto- sexual act? I thought of Ruth as I got busy. Within four minutes, I was back in the office with the tube almost filled up.

‘Ah, very good of you,’ Doctor Daboh said as she took the tube from me. I could see that she was now wearing hand gloves.

Judith too smiled up at me. ‘You don’t really know how grateful I am, Francis,’ she said.

I smiled it off. ‘It’s a pleasure, madam.’ I sat down again, but not for long. I had done what I came there to do.

‘I’ll be on my way again, madam,’ I said.

‘Yes, Francis. Don’t worry, before the end of today, I’ll send you something worthwhile.’

I nodded. ‘Alright, madam. Goodbye, doctor.’

‘Goodbye,’ the two women answered.

I left the room and the hospital.

Some hours later, I got a call from Ms. Judith.

‘Thank you for the other time, Francis. I need your account details. Can you send them to me by text message?’

‘No problem, madam. I’ll do that right away.’

I sent the text to her number. Within a couple of minutes, I received a text alert informing me of a transfer of one hundred thousand naira into my account.

🎵 Praise Song: "You Are Worthy"

Verse 1:
When the sun rises high in the sky
I will lift up my voice to the King
Every heartbeat, a gift from Your hand
You’re the reason I live, You’re my strength

Chorus:
You are worthy, You are holy
All creation bows before Your throne
You are mighty, full of mercy
Forever You reign, forever alone
You are God, and You are worthy

Verse 2:
In the storm, You are steady and true
In the valley, I’ll still sing Your praise
You’re the anchor that carries me through
You have conquered the grave and the chains

Bridge:
All my life, I will glorify
The Name above every name
Jesus, Savior, be lifted high
Forever and always the same!

Chorus:
You are worthy, You are holy
All creation bows before Your throne
You are mighty, full of mercy
Forever You reign, forever alone
You are God, and You are worthy

Outro:
Yes, You are God, and You are worthy.
Now and forever, You are worthy

'You stayed quite long,' Ruth pointed out.

'Were you trying to toast madam
too?’

Her question, harmless and jovial as it seemed, was very poignant. I only smiled it off.

‘When will you give me an answer to the expressions I made to you?’ I asked, to divert attention from madam and to revisit the issue I actually considered as primordial.

‘Give me some time’ she replied.

I sighed. If she needed some time, she would get it. There was no need I rushed her.

Two days later, Ruth was yet to give me an answer. We behaved normally in the office, but I knew she was stretching my patience to the limit.

It was Friday. It looked like it was going to be a very eventful weekend. By Saturday, I was expected to see Ms. Judith for the medical appointment. I wondered how things would turn out to be. As for Ruth, I wondered how long she would take to give me an answer. A man must be ready for anything, whether the answer was negative or positive.

At the close of work, I went straight to my residence, thinking about the weekend. By seven in the evening, I got a call from Ms. Judith.

‘Good evening, Frank. How’re you doing?’ she asked. ‘I’m fine.’

‘Yeah, concerning what we discussed, the appointment is ten o’clock tomorrow morning. It’s at St. Dorcas Hospital, Ijaiye Road, Ogba. You can take a bike from Ogba main bus stop to the place.’

‘Okay, that will be no problem.’ ‘Alright, see you.’

‘Okay, madam.’

I sighed after the line was disengaged. Nodding to myself, I had no doubt that I would be keeping that appointment.

The following morning, I was at the appointed place by quarter to ten. I put a call to Ms. Judith.

‘Good morning, madam. I’m at the car park of the hospital.’

‘Oh, that’s good of you. I’m already inside. Ask of Dr. Florence Daboh. I’m in her consulting room.’

‘Okay.’

They should reject the letter.

He needed to write more character to make the communication interactive.

The spiritual and biblical view on masturbation is nuanced and not explicitly addressed in Scripture, which means interpretations vary across Christian denominations, traditions, and personal convictions. Here's a balanced look from a biblical and spiritual perspective:


---

1. What the Bible Says (and Doesn’t Say)

There is no direct mention of masturbation in the Bible. This absence has led to differing interpretations:

The Story of Onan (Genesis 38:8–10)

Often cited in discussions of masturbation.

Onan "spilled his seed" on the ground, but the context is about refusing his duty to provide offspring for his deceased brother, not masturbation.

God's displeasure was with Onan’s disobedience and selfishness, not the act itself.


➡️ Conclusion: This is not a clear condemnation of masturbation.


---

2. Broader Biblical Principles

While masturbation is not mentioned directly, the Bible emphasizes:

Purity of Heart and Mind

Matthew 5:28 — "But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Lust is a major concern; masturbation is often accompanied by sexual fantasy or pornography, which may lead to sinful thought patterns.


Self-Control

Galatians 5:22–23 — The fruit of the Spirit includes self-control.

1 Corinthians 6:12 — “I will not be mastered by anything.” This can apply to compulsive or addictive behaviors, including masturbation.


Honor God with Your Body

1 Corinthians 6:19–20 — "Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit... therefore honor God with your body."



---

3. Spiritual and Theological Considerations

Conscience and Conviction

Romans 14:23 — "Whatever does not proceed from faith is sin."

If a person feels conviction that masturbation is wrong for them, then for them it is sin.


Grace and Mercy

Christianity emphasizes God's grace. Struggles with sexual temptation, including masturbation, are not beyond forgiveness or healing.

The goal is transformation through the Spirit, not perfection through willpower alone.



---

4. Christian Views: Varying Perspectives

Conservative View

Many conservative traditions (Catholic, Orthodox, some evangelical groups) view masturbation as sinful due to its association with lust, selfishness, and misuse of sexuality.


Moderate View

Some Christians believe masturbation can be morally neutral if it does not involve lust or pornography and does not become compulsive or replace intimacy in marriage.


Pastoral View

Many pastors recognize that masturbation is a common struggle, especially among youth, and encourage spiritual growth, accountability, and healing rather than shame.



---

5. Practical Guidance for Christians

Ask: Is this drawing me closer to God or distracting me from Him?

Evaluate motives: Is it out of lust, stress relief, or habit?

Consider spiritual disciplines: prayer, fasting, confession, and community.

Seek accountability if it's compulsive or tied to pornography.



---

Summary

Not directly condemned, but often associated with lust, which is warned against.

The heart and intent matter greatly in Scripture.

The emphasis is on self-control, purity, and honoring God with our bodies.

There's room for grace, growth, and dialogue rather than guilt and shame.

"You Are Worthy, Lord"

(Original Praise Song)

Verse 1:
You are the light that shines in darkness,
You are the hope that lifts my soul.
You are the peace when storms surround me,
Forever faithful, You are in control.

Chorus:
You are worthy, Lord, You are holy,
All creation lifts Your name on high.
King of glory, God almighty,
Be exalted, Jesus, glorified!

Verse 2:
You spoke the stars into their places,
You formed the mountains with Your hand.
You breathed Your life into my being,
Now by Your mercy, here I stand.

Chorus:
You are worthy, Lord, You are holy,
All creation lifts Your name on high.
King of glory, God almighty,
Be exalted, Jesus, glorified!

Bridge:
From age to age, Your love remains,
Your power never fades away.
Forever I will sing Your praise,
My Savior, my Redeemer, my Way!

Final Chorus (lifted):
You are worthy, Lord, You are holy,
All the heavens echo with Your cry.
King of glory, God almighty,
Be exalted, Jesus, glorified!
Be exalted, Jesus, glorified!

But I never imagined I would be at the center of an issue such as this.

'You're not going to do it in vain,' she went on.

'For sure, you're going to be well compensated for the efforts. But then, there must be an agreement that the matter is only between you and me and must be confidential. . The second important point is that once you've done the donation, you must not, whether now or in the future, come to lay a claim over the child. That is the proposition I have for you.'

I sighed. What a proposition!

'How do you want this thing to be effected, madam?' I asked.

She nodded. 'Once you agree, I'll take you to see my doctor in the clinic I used. I've already discussed the issue with her. From the clinic, you'll make the donation. Once the conception is confirmed, that is all.'

I was thoughtful, while she looked at me expectantly.

'Okay, madam. From the way you've put it, I don't think there's any harm in it. For you, madam, I'll do it.'

She looked at me and beamed up in smile.

'Thank you so much, Frank. That's very considerate of you. So, how much will you charge for doing this?'

I shook my head. 'I don't want to charge anything, but if you feel like giving me anything, you're free to do so.'

She looked surprised. 'Really? Oh, that's very considerate of you, Frank. I really appreciate your gesture, but don't worry, I'll give you something reasonable all the same.'

I nodded. 'Thank you.'

'It's very likely we'll go to the clinic this Saturday, but I need to confirm the appointment with the doctor. I'll let you know by Thursday or Friday.'

'Alright, madam.' I stood up.

'Don't forget to keep this very confidential, Frank.'

I smiled briefly. 'No problem, madam. You have my words.'

'Alright, Frank.'

I nodded again, left her office and went back to my office.

'You stayed quite long,' Ruth pointed out. 'Were you trying to toast madam too?’

🎶 Be Glad in the Lord and Rejoice
Words: Mary A. Kidder | Music: William J. Kirkpatrick

1.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice,
All ye that are upright in heart;
And ye that have made Him your choice,
Bid sadness and sorrow depart.

📜 Refrain:
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice!
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice!

2.
Be joyful, for He is the Lord,
On earth and in heaven supreme;
He fashions and rules by His word—
The “Mighty” and “Strong” to redeem.

3.
What though in the conflict for right,
Your enemies almost prevail,
God’s armies, just hid from your sight,
Are more than the foes which assail.

4.
Though darkness surround you by day,
Your sky by the night be o’ercast,
Let nothing your spirit dismay,
But trust till the danger is past.

5.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice,
His praises proclaiming in song;
With harp and with organ and voice,
The loud hallelujahs prolong!