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Top 12 LDS Youth Activities
"Ammon" Ward Mission Plan
Clearfield Utah North Stake
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
966th stake of the LDS Church was created on 8 Oct 1978 / Alfred Clyde Van Wagenen as the first stake president.
Clearfield is a city in Davis County, Utah. The city grew drastically during the 1940s, with the formation of Hill Air Force Base, and in the 1950s with the nation-wide increase in suburb and "bedroom" community populations and has been steadily growing since then. Clearfield gained a ward separate from the one in Syracuse, Utah on November 3, 1907. This was an outgrowth of the building of a cannery a few months before that had caused many people to move to the town. The Clearfield Stake was organized in 1959.
Local Congregations:
Meeting House Facilities
LDS Stake Youth Programs
LDS Family Night Activities
For over 100 years, the LDS Church was conducted a great youth program for boys, much of which is based on the best practices of the BSA Scouting Program.
BSA Mormon Merit Badge Activity Guide
Utah Hi-Adventure Treks
Utah LDS Tour
North Davis County LDS Stakes
Related Links
Ogden Utah Temple
One of only four temples in the Mormon Church to feature six ordinance rooms. This temple is currently going through a major renovation of the exterior building shell and surrounding temple grounds scheduled to be completed in 2014.
This temple is the centerpiece of downtown Ogden. Visitors may also see the nearby historic Ogden Tabernacle and Pioneer Museum. The temple grounds are beautified by large water features, mature trees, and colorful landscaping.
50 Best Utah Short Hikes
Outdoorsman Ron Adkison selects his favorite short trips in five major parks: Arches, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Zion.
MainTour Clearfield Utah North
MainTour.com is not affiliated with
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
(aka: LDS Church / Mormon Church)
Life is a long lesson in humility. - James M. Barrie (1860 - 1937)
Life is a long lesson in humility. - James M. Barrie (1860 - 1937)


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ANCHORAGE (AP) -- The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is asking for cooperation from boaters as the agency nets king salmon in the lower Kenai River near the state-run sonar king counter.
With so many anglers fishing the river, it has been difficult for Fish and Game crews to motor a boat into the correct channel and drift down with the net to catch kings.
Test netting is used to gauge the success of the sonar counter. The kings are released.
Fish and Game is asking that boaters who see the test boat waiting to deploy its net give it space. The crew also will wait for any anglers in the area to leave.
The netting boat is out there all week, usually four hours before and after a low tide through Aug. 10. The project has been conducted since the early 1980s and in that part of the river since 1998.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Happy New Year!
Cadillac & Cadillac wheels are a luxury brand produced by General Motors .. but I think you know this by just looking at the Cadillac Deville wheels. Cadillac cars are sold in more than 50 countries and territories around the world; but mostly here in North America.
As of now, Cadillac rims & Cadillac itself is known as the second oldest American car manufacturer .. right behind Buick. If you really want to argue about it, some people say that Cadillac is older than Buick; but it really all depends on how you look at the situation.
Cadillac was founded in 1902 by Henry Leland. He was known as a "master mechanic" and an entrepreneur that was originally named after his ancestor. Thanks to him, we have great looking 2004 Cadillac Deville wheels.
So… thanks dude,


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OD Network News
March 2015
About OD Network >
About OD >
Membership >
Annual Conference >
Publications >
Resources >
Calendar of Events
March 24, 2015
Using Debriefs - A Simple, Powerful Tool for Boosting Team Effectiveness
April 14, 2015
Mastering Consultation
April 26 - May 1, 2015
Power Lab
2015 Board of Trustees
Matt Minahan, Ed.D.
Vice Chair
Sherry Duda
Magdy Mansour
Yasmeen Burns
Christina Bell
Jaya Bohlmann
Marco Cassone
Loretta Hobbs
Norm Jones, Ph.D.
Martha Kesler
Kris Lea
Zoe MacLeod
Welcome New Members
Please welcome our new members who joined in February & March
David Adrian
Jumah AlAnazi
Swafia Ames
Sameer Anand
Nicole Anguilm
James Apronti
Todd Averett
Johan Azman
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Angela Barrios
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Chris Blair
Christine Brady
Kevin Baun
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James Fisher
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Ron Gupta
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Robert Hilliard
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Jack Jefferies
Beatriz Jimenez
Paula Johusack
Rob Kanzer
Cornelia Kaufmann
Beth Kerr
Candy Kirchner
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Matt La Riccia
Regina Lind
Jay Long
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Anna Lynott
Thomas Martin
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Verna Montgomery
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Catherine Neufeld
Tammy Newhouse
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Roy Plaeger-Brockway
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Each month, theOrganization Development Network shares news and information about important happenings within OD Network as well as sources to help support the advancement of your OD practice.
Message from the 2015 OD Network|IODA Conference Co-Chairs, Peter Kalmar and Lori Blander
Network Committees
Dear Colleagues:
Are You Ready to Meet the World in Portland?
We are excited to announce that this year's
OD Network| IODA Conference from the 17th-20th
of October in Portland, Oregon will be co-hosted
by OD Network and IODA, the International OD Association, two of the most prestigious organizations of our field in the world. So-with the aim of "Co-creating a Global OD Community"-we hereby invite you and your colleagues from around the world to come together in Portland for the:
2015 OD Network | IODA Annual Conference & 2nd OD World Summit.
The 2015 Program Committee is already working hard and having lots of fun in creating an outstanding program and a meaningful experience for all of us, and we-Lori Blander and Peter Kalmar - are just thrilled to be your co-chairs for this year, doing our very best to bring the world of OD together in the Pacific Northwest for this epic, milestone event.
In our vision this year's summit will be a fantastic global gathering that brings all continents and walks of life together, connected through a passion for OD. The conference will be a dynamic international event that facilitates learning and change at organizational, community and societal levels.
Read more about our theme and the concept that will guide us through the 3-day journey here.
Request for Proposals
The Program Committee is looking for dynamic and engaging facilitators who not only bring their skills and experiences to the conference, but bring learnings to share with participants that are experiential, relatable and transferable.
Facilitators will host sessions on topics relevant to the three main themes (Our Field. Our World. Our Impact.), initiate conversations and dialogue that deepen understanding of OD principles and practices across cultures, and engage participants with emerging perspectives in our field.
The request for proposals closesMarch 23, 2015.
Book Your Housing
The Portland Hilton is the headquarters for the 2015 Od Network| IODA Annual Conference.OD Network has secured a group rate of $179 USD (Single/double) per night.The hotel cut-off date is Thursday, September 24, 2015.
OD Network's Committee on Culture, Diversity, and Inclusion
Norm Jones Ph.D, Chair CD&I committee
OD Network is committed to building a sustainable culture of inclusion that creatively uses diversity to advance its work. It is our hope that members will share their knowledge, participate in professional learning activities, and contribute their diverse experiences and perspectives to advance both the theory and practice of OD in domestic and global contexts. An inclusive culture will increase member participation, enhance mutual learning, foster new professional alliances and create greater economic success for members and stakeholders. Ultimately, our collective impact as culturally competent practitioners will benefit clients and organizations where we work. The Culture, Diversity & Inclusion (CD&I) Committee is an outgrowth of OD Network's 2013-2015 Strategic Plan. One of the strategic goals of the plan is to "transform our culture of inclusion through expansion of values and practices."
To read the full article, click here.
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Member of the Month
Jaya Bohlmann, MA, APRMember Board of Trustees and Chair Membership Committee
When I was younger, I wanted to work inmedia and communications some way whether it was as a news reporter or in the crazy world of a magazine publisher. But I never imagined I would become a Managing Director of Corporate & Financial Practice at a leading global public relations firm, Burson-Marsteller. However, I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for my past experiences. The biggest hurdle I had to jump over was when I started my own consulting business while also moving to a new city. It was challenging to pursue my passion of becoming an entrepreneur while adjusting to a new city. However, I was able to succeed due to the support of business colleagues, family, friends, and the tools I learned from the OD graduate programs at American University and Benedictine University.
Read Jaya's full bio here.
Regional News
ODN Welcomes the Boston Facilitators Roundtable
The Massachusetts Bay Organization Development Learning Group has merged with the Boston Facilitators Roundtable.The OD Network isdelighted to welcome the Boston Facilitators Roundtable to our Network.As members of a regional organization,all BFR members now qualify for a $25 discount on their OD Network membership.
Chesapeake Bay OD Network Annual Conference
"Cultivating Sustainable Communities: Learn, Grow, Share, Inspire."April 24th with post- conference workshops on April 25th. College Park, MD.
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TheOD Network Job Exchangeis the most effective forum, whether you're a job seeker or employer, to find opportunities specific to OD.Some of the most recent postings include:
Director - Performance and Succession
Posted: 3/2/2015
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ODEA Spotlight: University of San Francisco
The M.S. in Organization Development (MSOD) program develops working professionals to assume leadership roles in the transformation of organizations through its emphasis on academic rigor and ethical practice rooted in Jesuit, Catholic tradition. University of San Francisco students learn relevant theory, gain interdisciplinary knowledge and develop practical skills in organization assessment, diagnosis, intervention and evaluation, enhanced organizational effectiveness and resiliency and the USF MSOD program focuses on team and organization change interventions necessary to create productive, compassionate organizations.
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2/13/2018Organization Development Network Announces 2018 Board of Trustees
2/8/2018Special ODN Member Discount on March 15–17 Integral Facilitator® Training
10/23/2017Benedictine professor receives lifetime achievement award
3/27/20182018 Welcome Group Cohort #5
4/12/2018Webinar: The Boardroom Table and "Patient-Centered Care": What's the Connection?
4/21/20182018 Welcome Group Cohort #6
10/18/2018 » 10/21/20182018 OD Network Annual Conference
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text:
Poker Players Your Players Look Up To
Doyle Brunson
The Godfather of Poker is still alive and kicking and he's still got tremendous cross appeal. Doyle Brunson, now 79, is one of just a handful of players who have won the Main Event at the WSOP more than once.
Brunson's self-published Super/System book is one of the foundations of poker and can be found on every serious poker player's book shelf.
It's really hard to understate the impact that Brunson's had on the game during his storied career. His words and images should be appealing to players of all ages and playing abilities.
Tags: Online Poker Real Money, Poker News


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Thrilled Twice
I was married for almost 20 years to a woman who really did not know how to love or be loved. I have since had the pleasure of dating some very interesting young and older women.
One of the women I dated for two years recently made love to me in a way none of the others did. While we seldom enjoyed full intercourse, we actually did far better in other ways.
I remember one spring day when we were up in my four post bed with the windows open. The sun streamed in with warm air and it was delightful. Cre told me that in all the years she was married (about the same as mine), her husband had never masturbated for her. She wanted me to do so and she wanted to see me shoot my juice. I felt a little odd about the request but I loved Cre very much. She put her head on my chest as I started to play with myself and finger her with my other hand at the same time.
Looking at the back of the blonde head of this woman I adored, as well as her round ass and legs, it did not take me long to get all worked up. I soon felt myself about to come. In my older age, my penis offers a few small drops before losing the entire load. As soon as Cre saw I was about to come, she knocked my hand out of the way and put her mouth on me and sucked like a woman possessed. I felt her come on my fingers as she took all of my orgasm into her mouth and swallow it.
When she turned to look at me, I saw her sweet smile as well as the fact she did not swallow all of me as there was still some on her face where the first stream hit her.
Words can not tell you how sexy this woman looked to me at that time.
Cre and I later broke up. It was more my fault than hers. I thought I was failing to get an erection because she was gaining weight but the truth was I needed medication because of my age.
Not a day goes by that I do not think of Cre and the fun she had with her guy she termed, Flawless Bod.


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What split?
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were together at Saturday's Directors Guild Awards. Although they skipped the red carpet and weren't snapped together, People reports the pair sat together and "looked very giggly" at Quentin Tarantino's table all night. There is also a snippet of video of them down below the photos.
They were at the ceremony as Pitt presented his "Inglourious Basterds" director with a film nomination plaque.
And video:


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LOS ANGELES--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--Lundin Law PC, a shareholder rights firm announces a class action lawsuit against Caterpillar Inc. ("Caterpillar" or the "Company") (NYSE: CAT). Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Caterpillar shares between February 19, 2013 and March 1, 2017 inclusive (the "Class Period"), are encouraged to contact the firm in advance of the May 2, 2017 lead plaintiff deadline.
"Law enforcement is present in various Peoria-area Caterpillar facilities executing a search warrant. Caterpillar is cooperating."
To participate in this class action lawsuit, click here, or call Brian Lundin, Esquire, of Lundin Law PC, at 888-713-1033, or e-mail him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
No class has been certified in the above action yet. Until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. You may choose to take no action and remain a passive class member.
On March 2, 2017, it was revealed that federal law enforcement authorities, such as the U.S. Department of Justice and the Internal Revenue Service, entered Caterpillar's Peoria, Illinois headquarters and its offices. Corrie Scott from Caterpillar stated "Law enforcement is present in various Peoria-area Caterpillar facilities executing a search warrant. Caterpillar is cooperating." When this information was revealed to investors, the value of Caterpillar fell, causing investors harm.
Lundin Law PC was established by Brian Lundin, a securities litigator based in Los Angeles dedicated to upholding shareholders' rights.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.


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Originally posted by merka
From what I have heard, the red hair on mummies isnt actually red, its reacting with the air/light and turn red. All part of a natural process.
I dont know where I've read/seen that though so I cant supply any link, I just remember it.
Originally posted by merka
From what I have heard, the red hair on mummies isnt actually red, its reacting with the air/light and turn red. All part of a natural process.
I dont know where I've read/seen that though so I cant supply any link, I just remember it.
Originally posted by Amarillo_Brice
As I understand it, red heads began as the result of aryan races (primarily the vikings) ravaging (or making sweet consensual love with) the women of other, darker races when they invaded, such as the celts.
Vikings ARE Celts, you know.
The reason that many British kings (sometime after the Viking invasions) have been red headed is due to the influx of aryans into the aristocracy during the the raids, and the consequent aristocratic interbreeding kept the red headed gene alive and well.
There's not that many redhaired aristocrats, even among the Irish. In fact, if this "fact" was true, you'd find a whopping bunch of redheads among the peasants because the nobles used to run out and tup any fair peasant maids they wanted. Lots and lots and lots of illeigitimate children.
Originally posted by Indellkoffer
Vikings ARE Celts, you know.
By ubermuncheThere's some speculation that the red haired gene is linked to neanderthals and if true is evidence of humman/neanderthal interbreeding.
Researchers at the John Radcliffe Institute of Molecular Medicine in Oxford were quoted by The Times as saying the so-called "ginger gene" which gives people red hair, fair skin and freckles could be up to 100 000 years old.
They claim that their discovery points to the gene having originated in Neanderthal man who lived in Europe for 200 000 years before Homo sapien settlers, the ancestors of modern man, arrived from Africa about 40 000 years ago.
"An explanation is that it comes from Neanderthals."
...If the Edinburgh team are right, and the redhead gene originated only 20,000 to 40,000 years ago, it may kill off a theory that emerged last year - that the red-hair gene originated in the Neanderthals.
The idea was based on a claim that the gene was at least 100,000 years old and so may have been present before modern man left Africa. To pass into our DNA, our ancestors would have had to have interbred with Neanderthals - an unfashionable theory among the experts in human origins.
"There's not much evidence for it," said Prof Rees. While the Edinburgh team are investigating the purpose of colour, a team in Paris are helping to explain the purpose of hair.


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What is it with wine people and oysters?
I can't think of another food that so intrigues the wine-minded (save possibly ramen, and that's a whole other story). I'm equally guilty of this, which is probably how I ended up finding myself writing our story on overhauling the R-month rule for oysters.
After all, you won't find too many people arguing which wines to pair with salmon or pasta or even hamburgers. But oysters? Oh, they'll debate and debate and debate and debate and debate.
I do have one suspicion why the wine-oyster link endures. As I was reporting, I found over and over again that the same language used is used to discuss oysters and wine. Just as there are wine varieties, there are oyster species, and someone is almost as likely to express a love for Virginicas as for Chardonnay (both pretty easily found) or to hold out for rare Olympias as to seek out Semillon. Either way, there is the quest for connoisseurship.
More pointedly, there is the obsession with terroir. This returned over and over again as I talked to oyster folk, to the point I began to feel like I should be discussing soil types or annual rainfall instead of culturing techniques (rack and bag versus deep-water) and water salinity.
Indeed, if the differences in site are sometimes more subtle (or imagined) in wine, the differences in oyster terroir are notable, often evident by the shell as much as the taste. As with wine, exact results vary based on the combination of biology and site. There are, in fact, blind oyster tastings — the West Coast got a moment to crow when the Totten Inlet Virginica from Washington State beat out its East Coast counterparts — though they're more for quality than to indulge in a geographic palate game. Perhaps that will come next.
If wine types have long had Hugh Johnson's "World Atlas of Wine" to linger over, tracing the curve of the Mosel River or determine where Cannubi lies in relation to the village of Barolo, oyster types now have an excellent catalog in Rowan Jacobsen's "A Geography of Oysters." Jacobsen, a writer for The Art of Eating, has cataloged the a dizzying array of oysters from New Brunswick to Southern California. Never heard of an Eld Inlet (Washington), Netarts Bay (Oregon) or Whale Rock (Connecticut)? Now you have.
Better yet, Jacobsen has excerpted much of the geography portion of his book in an excellent web companion, The Oyster Guide, which details most of the oysters you'd ever want to know. Could an iPhone app be the next step?
As with wine — perhaps even moreso — the nice thing with oysters is that whether or not you care about the difference between a Hama Hama and a Penn Cove Select, there's usually someone at an oyster bar who will help you choose a satisfying platter of a dozen on the half-shell. So even if your oyster habits are like those of Diamond Jim Brady, who could suck down a quick three dozen for an appetizer, slow down and savor the differences. If good wine bars now offer small tasting pours to let you browse, most oyster bars have long allowed you to explore a different patch of oyster terroir with every slurp.


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Re: Charles Kentfield born in Massachuse
In reply to:
Charles Kentfield born in Massachusetts
Tried to get your email but couldn't. Hope this fits!"Jonathan Kentfield came to Sunderland before 1825, lived at The Rocks in house now demolished on bank of Connecticut River. None of his children were born in town, probably all are not named here nor in order of birth. Wife d. Nov.7, 1839 and family left town. He died 1873 ag. 97 at home of his daughter Mrs. J.L. Leach in Vt.Children: Charles m. Tryphosa, dau David Graves (pub. Oct. 27, 1826): Eliza m. Alvin Stebbins of Deerfield (pub. Dec. 29, 1824), d. Sept 30, 1885 ag 79.: Clarissa m. Jonathan Leach of Lyndon: Emily b. Sept 16, 1810 m. May 6, 1841 Willard Payne: Mary S. m. Smith: Edmund d. in Brandon, Vt.JK was rugged, weatherbeaten with strong voice." These are old notes and I do not know the source...it may be a History of Sunderland, MA.My great grandmother was Lucy Elvira Kentfield dau of Henry Kentfield and Elizabeth Brown of Montague, MA. They lived in Greenfield, MA. I don't seem to have gotten back any further except I seemed to have put a star by Jonathan! I haven't done genealogy for some years but with the internet info it's fun to get back into it again. Now I wish I had documented my notes and I should have done!I found nothing more in Whitingham History. Deed records may have come from Franklin County Registry in Greenfield, MA.Nan Williams:firstname.lastname@example.com


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The Connecticut Huskies are one of five teams at the FBS level this season that have yet to win a game. They are the only ones out of a major conference, however, to still be looking for their first win (other bad BCS teams scheduled better cupcakes, apparently). And they've looked about as poor as you can going 0-7. They rank outside the top 100 in most every statistical category nationally, fired their head coach midway through the season (with no discernible difference made on the team) and appear to be losing their fighting spirit as the losses keep mounting. With five games to go in 2013, is there any chance UConn gets a win?
Looking back at their losses this season, they were close to breaking into the win column a couple of times. They had the Michigan Wolverines on the ropes before letting them escape with a 24-21 win back on September 21. Then in AAC play, UConn went down to the wire with the South Florida Bulls but lost 13-10 despite the Bulls' inability to score an offensive touchdown in the game. Other than that, it's been blowouts for the Huskies this season with the next closest margin of defeat an 11 point loss against the Maryland Terrapins.
And looking ahead, UConn has some tough games still on the schedule. Their next game is on November 8 against the No. 19 Louisville Cardinals, who look as focused as ever and will be looking to get some retribution for their loss to the Huskies last season. After that, they're on the road against the SMU Mustangs (3-4) and Temple Owls (1-7) in back to back weeks before finishing the season with a two-game home-stand against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (4-3) and Memphis Tigers (1-6).
With that schedule, there are two winnable games for this team against Temple and Memphis, clubs that have been only slightly more successful this season than UConn. The Owls could present an issue as they have been competitive in most of their games, losing four games by 10 points or less, this season and have some offensive balance in their attack. Their defense, while not great, is still vastly better than what the Huskies have put on the field this season, so UConn will still be a significant underdog on the road November 23.
That leaves the season finale against Memphis as their last chance at avoiding a winless season. So far, the Tigers have only beaten the Arkansas State Red Wolves in non-conference play where they dominated in a 31-7 win. In the rest of their games, Memphis has struggled to get their offense going, averaging just 20 points per game on the season. Their defense, however, ranks No. 3 in the AAC in total defense and No. 49 in the country in scoring defense. Not great, but much better than you'd expect from a 1-6 team and a serious obstacle for a largely ineffective UConn offense.
So while they have opportunities in seemingly winnable games down the stretch, things don't look good for the Huskies' chances of winning a game in 2013. Whoever becomes the next coach of UConn will have their work cut out for them rebuilding this program up into even a middle-of-the-pack contender.
You can follow me on Twitter @Teeblerone, on Facebook and on Google
Related Links
Teddy Bridgewater Will Have Career Day for Louisville Cardinals vs Connecticut Huskies
Connecticut Huskies Can't Get Another Bad Year From Chandler Whitmer
Rant Sports College Football Top 100: No. 84 UConn Huskies


text: We visited the Victoria Sapa Resort and Spa in July and stayed for one night in a deluxe room. This was part of a short tour of the area which included two nights on the Livitrans train (a journey of 8.5 hours each way) and one night at Topas EcoLodge. Although guests of the hotel, we had not been able... More


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MLB: Money Can't Buy Happiness...or First Place, for That MatterMay 16, 2008
I made a rough graph in Excel and the result is above. By itself, it is not all that telling, so I'll narrate: The blue dots represents each team (lined up on the bottom) and their payroll as a percentage of the top payroll in the league, the Yankees ($209 Million). The red dots are winning percentages as of Thursday night.
That's right kids, No correlation! Zippo! You want an even crazier stat? The top four teams in payroll—New York Yankees, Detroit, New York Mets, and Boston—have an average winning percentage of .484, or about 19-21. The bottom four—Pittsburgh, Oakland, Tampa Bay, and Florida—have an average of .549 - about 22-18. Yep. Three games back.
Yes, I know I'm using Detroit's 16-25 record to my statistical advantage. But isn't it interesting that among the top four teams, NONE of them are in first place? Heck, two of them are in last. How about the fact that two of the bottom four are in first in their respective divisions—not to mention Oakland, who are just half a game behind Anaheim? Does that statistic make it any more clear?
Barry Zito is a great example of how money is being squandered away by rich ballclubs that don't know what they seem to be getting. There's nothing like making eight figures a year and sitting in the bullpen every day (he has since returned to the rotation, of course). Or even Johan Santana, who until last week did not have a home win.
What a great sport baseball is. I can tell money affects performance so much.


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Responding to Threats
"But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness." [1]
The people of God live under constant threat even to their lives. Jesus warned His people, "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, and you will be hated by all for my name's sake" [MATTHEW 10:16-22].
Threats to spiritual well-being are quite real for the child of God; yet, no believer lives under more severe threats than does an elder. Those opposed to righteousness are enemies of the Faith; and enemies of the Faith threaten the spiritual health of the faithful. The undershepherd has received appointment to guard the flock of God. "I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock" [1 PETER 5:1-3].
The Big Fisherman's words echo those delivered by Paul to the elders of Ephesus. "Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock that the Holy Spirit has appointed you to as overseers, to shepherd the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. And men will rise up from your own number with deviant doctrines to lure the disciples into following them. Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for three years I did not stop warning each one of you with tears" [2] [ACTS 20:28-31].
The man of God is charged with mounting an aggressive defence against spiritual assault. "Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ" [JUDE 3, 4].
If the overseer fails to guard his own heart, he jeopardises not only his spiritual standing with the Master and he imperils the spiritual health of the flock for which he accepted responsibility. Should the man of God succumb to the temptation to treat his service as a mere job, or should he begin to compromise with the wicked attitudes of this fallen world, the spiritual health of the congregation and the advance of the work of Christ through that assembly will be endangered. Thus, the warnings of the Word directed to the elder are essential.
We have witnessed the Apostle providing instructions for the general conduct of the elders as they provide oversight of the congregation. Paul has implemented a measure of order that was lacking in the assembly. Suddenly, precipitously, he shifts attention to Timothy. Paul writes, "Sù dé," thrusting the second personal singular personal pronoun to the front of the sentence for emphasis. The false teachers are left behind—they have been addressed and he assumes Timothy will shortly take care of their pernicious efforts to wreak havoc of the church. From this point to the end of the book, the Apostle is addressing Timothy—and indirectly, every elder until the Master returns.
The first sentence of this final portion of the missive is the foundation for our study this day. Paul will provide quite personal instruction that each one who occupies the sacred desk must take to heart. Focus with me that together we may learn, holding those who provide oversight accountable to the Word of the Living God.
O MAN OF GOD — "But as for you, O man of God…" It is distressingly easy to pass over some gems that are included in the Word because we have grown familiar with the language. For instance, the Apostle addresses Timothy as the "man of God." It is at once a word of supreme confidence and high expectation. Applied to Timothy, it is high commendation, indeed. However, I am prepared to argue that this designation should apply to each pastor. The elder is to be a "man of God."
It is a statement of ownership. This concept of divine ownership is important to the people of God. It reminds us that no church hires a preacher; pastors are appointed by God. The congregation of the Lord receives from the hand of the Lord that one whom God deigns to appoint. Jesus spoke of shepherds and hirelings. It will be beneficial for us to refresh our memories concerning what He said concerning this matter.
"The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep" [JOHN 10:11b-13].
I am fully aware that Jesus was speaking specifically about Himself. He said, "I am the Good Shepherd" [JOHN 10:11a]. However, since He is the chief Shepherd [see 1 PETER 5:4], those who are appointed to this service are required to "shepherd the flock of God that is among" them [1 PETER 5:2]. The elder looks to the Master for direction concerning the service he is to render. Overseers are to model their service on the Son of God who sacrificed Himself for His own people.
What is important for each of us to know is that no church can say that it hires a preacher. Christ the Head of the Church appoints to holy office; any other relationship is at best presumptuous, and at worst it is fraudulent. Whenever a congregation begins to assume that it is in control of hiring and firing, they will shortly destroy the flock of the Lord. The reason they will destroy is precisely as Jesus warned when he said the hired hand sees danger and flees, leaving the sheep to be ravaged by wolves. Now, as gently as I know how, I point you to the words of the Master who informs us that "He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep" [JOHN 10:13].
I draw great comfort from the vision of the Risen Son of God presented by the Revelator in the opening verses of the Apocalypse. John heard a voice, and upon turning to see the voice that spoke with him, he saw the Son of God. Note one particular aspect of the One whom He saw. "In his right hand he held seven stars" [REVELATION 1:16a].
Soon after describing the Person whom he saw, John was informed of the significance of all that was shown to him. I want you to note what the Son of God said concerning the stars held in His hand. "The secret meaning of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and the seven gold lamp stands is this: the seven stars are the messengers of the seven churches, and the seven lamp stands are the seven churches" [3] [REVELATION 1:20]. The Son of God stands in the midst of His churches, and He holds the messengers—the pastors—of the churches in His hand.
Undoubtedly, Paul could speak with great confidence concerning the divine appointment he had received. Testifying before Agrippa, Paul boldly recalled the words which He heard when Jesus appeared to him. "The Lord said, 'I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you" [ACTS 26:15, 16].
Thus, he opens his letters with an assertion of divine appointment. "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures" [ROMANS 1:1, 2].
The First Corinthians Letter begins with this same confident assertion, "Paul, called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus" [1 CORINTHIANS 1:1].
It is with the same certainty that he begins his letter to the Churches of Galatia: "Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead" [GALATIANS 1:1].
No less can any overseer speak with confidence that God has appointed him to service. Candidly, if there is no sense of call, no confidence in the appointment of Christ the Lord, no man can long survive in the pastorate. Christ calls and Christ appoints. I pity those sorry individuals who see the pastorate as a job, always finagling for a better salary or a better position or a larger congregation. If that is all it is, then we should never again approach this sacred desk.
I know quite well that the words Isaiah penned were directed to Israel. However, I am unapologetic in appropriating some of those words to this office. Comforting His people, the LORD God spoke at one point, saying,
"But now thus says the LORD,
He who created you, O Jacob,
He who formed you, O Israel:
'Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.'"
I see that final strophe and draw courage that God spoke those as surely for His undershepherd as He did for His ancient people.
I am adamant in insisting that Christ has appointed me to His service; and so long as I declare the message that He has given, ensuring that I declare the Word which is printed for all to see, that He will stand with me. Those who dare attempt to remove God's appointed servant are setting themselves against no mere mortal—they are opposed to God Himself.
When we speak of one as a "man of God," it is acknowledgement that that man belongs to the Lord God. With the Psalmist, in a powerful manner, that man can say, "My times are in His hands" [cf. PSALM 31:15].
It is a statement of position. Paul called Timothy "man of God." Throughout the Old Testament, the term "man of God" is applied specifically to the prophets or the anointed leaders. Whenever we read of a prophet in the pages of the Old Covenant, "man of God" is a common designation. For instance, the one bearing the awful prophecy delivered to Eli was not named, though he is identified as "a man of God." "There came a man of God to Eli and said to him, 'Thus says the LORD, "Did I indeed reveal myself to the house of your father when they were in Egypt subject to the house of Pharaoh"'" [1 SAMUEL 2:27]?
What a powerful statement is made by Elijah when the king endeavoured to hale him into court. The first group of armed men came to Elijah, and the captain of the fifty spoke, "O man of God, the king says, 'Come down." Elijah's answer is simple, stunning and shocking. "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty." The same thing happened a second time as a captain of fifty demanded, "O man of God, this is the king's order, 'Come down quickly!'" Again, Elijah's answer was to the point and enforced with divine fire. "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty." Again, the divine text relates what happened, "Then the fire of God came down from heaven and consumed him and his fifty." [4]
Samuel is said to have been a "man of God" [2 SAMUEL 9:6 ff.]. Shemaiah, the prophet who rebuked Rehoboam, is identified as "the man of God" [1 KINGS 12:22]. The prophets who rebuked Jeroboam [1 KINGS 13:1 ff.] and Amaziah [2 CHRONICLES 25:7] are identified as "men of God." Igdaliah, a contemporary of Jeremiah, is spoken of as "the man of God" [JEREMIAH 35:4]. Of course, Elisha [2 KINGS 4:7 ff.] and David [NEHEMIAH 12:24, 36] are identified as "men of God" because of their prophetic ministries.
The elder conducts a prophetic ministry as he declares the mind of God to his generation. His message reaches far beyond the immediate congregation if he indeed speaks for God, for he reveals the will of God to those who listen. They, in turn, incorporate those truths into their lives by the power of the Spirit and as lights shining in the darkness point others to life in the Beloved Son. I suggest that this is a pointed reminder to the pastor that his will be a prophetic ministry, including standing alone on many occasions. Though he will seek the welfare of the flock, he knows he will be resisted; and he knows that those ensnared by the coils of error will resist his message because they imagine it to be too harsh and too negative. As was true of the prophets, the man of God will stand with God against error and the errant. Surely, the pastor is expected to be for the people whom he shepherds "the man of God." He is to walk with the Master, listening for His voice and revealing the glorious truths of His holy Word to the people of God.
The designation speaks of the prophetic position occupied by the preacher; and it also speaks of his appointment in pointed fashion. David is identified as "the man of God," as was noted only moments ago. I said that it was because of his prophetic ministry in providing the Psalms. However, it is likely true that he received this designation also because of his appointment as the ruler over God's people. Those anointed to holy service were identified as "men of God."
In a similar fashion, throughout the pages of the Old Covenant Moses is identified as "the man of God" because of his position as a leader over Israel. Listen as he is identified with the blessing of God's people in the closing portion of the Book of Deuteronomy. "This is the blessing with which Moses the man of God blessed the people of Israel before his death." [5]
Just so, if the elder is appointed by Christ, and if he conducts his service in the power of the Spirit, he acts as one anointed for holy service. In the truest sense of the Word, he will know that he is "the man of God." And whether the people receive the gift God has given or whether they resist his message, they will know in their heart that he is "the man of God."
Though it is undoubtedly a hard service to which an elder is appointed, it is conducted with precedence revealed in the life of the prophets. Speaking to His servant Ezekiel, God cautioned, "As for you, son of man, your people who talk together about you by the walls and at the doors of the houses, say to one another, each to his brother, 'Come, and hear what the word is that comes from the LORD.' And they come to you as people come, and they sit before you as my people, and they hear what you say but they will not do it; for with lustful talk in their mouths they act; their heart is set on their gain. And behold, you are to them like one who sings lustful songs with a beautiful voice and plays well on an instrument, for they hear what you say, but they will not do it. When this comes—and come it will!—then they will know that a prophet has been among them" [EZEKIEL 33:30-33].
It is a statement of expectation. The term "man of God" creates expectation in those who hear the term. "[The term] connotes one who is in God's service, represents God and speaks in His Name, and admirably fits one who is pastor." [6] Those who listen week-by-week to the message drawn from the Word have every expectation that they will hear from God. No one comes to the House of the Lord to hear an economic treatise. Political statements have no place in the message of life. If you wish to hear a sociological discourse, attend some lecture in the halls of high learning. Those attending the preaching of the Word expect to hear certainty that begins with "Thus saith the Lord!"
I am aware that in our text the Apostle specifically addresses Timothy as the "man of God." However, in a later letter, Paul would use that term in a more general sense as he applies it to all who occupy holy office. "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work" [2 TIMOTHY 3:16, 17].
Let me say quite plainly, the Word of God equips the preacher to be "complete, equipped for every good work." All who stand in the sacred desk stand in a rich and powerful lineage stretching back through the ages to Moses. In the words of John Bunyan, each of these men is qualified to be known as "the King's champion." [7] They are lifted above worldly aims and utterly devoted to proclaiming God's Word. With the Apostle I confess, "I magnify my ministry" [ROMANS 11:13].
FLEE THESE THINGS — "But as for you, O man of God, flee these things." Paul will issue in these final words six commands. They are vital for the health of the congregation, and the minister of Christ is the one receiving the command. He must "guard the deposit entrusted" to him [1 TIMOTHY 6:20]. He must "charge" the rich not to trust in their wealth [1 TIMOTHY 6:17]. He must not show favouritism, but act with integrity in an even-handed manner. He must "take hold of the eternal life to which" he has been called [1 TIMOTHY 6:12b]. He must "fight the good fight of the faith" [1 TIMOTHY 6:12a]. Each of these commands will be considered in their turn during messages that will be delivered in coming days. Today, however, we are focused on the first two imperatives the Apostle issues to the shepherd of the congregation in Ephesus.
The first of those commands is that Timothy is to flee. This seems odd in light of Paul's earlier command to the Ephesians to stand. Recall the words that Paul has written in the Ephesian Letter. "Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak" [EPHESIANS 6:10-20].
Take special note of the command to stand. "Take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore" [EPHESIANS 6:13, 14]. The Christian is to stand firm against the enemy. However, here we witness the Apostle commanding the man of God to flee!
The man of God is not fleeing conflict. Conflict will come and the man of God must stand firm against wickedness. However, not every path is straight forward. When the field of advance is strewn with mines designed to wound and cripple, the man of God must avoid those traps—he must flee. The Greek verb translated "flee" is pheúgo; we obtain our English word "fugitive" from this Greek word.
Flight as a spiritual strategy was crucial to Paul's ministry. Among those snares from which the man of God is to flee is everything that characterises the false teachers. Especially is he to flee those aspects of their lives that the Apostle has just described in the preceding verses. The man of God must flee teaching that marginalises Christ and His teaching. This is what Paul warned against in verses three and four. "If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing" [1 TIMOTHY 6:3, 4a].
The man of God must not degrade his office by entering into petty controversies and quarrels about words [see 1 TIMOTHY 6:4b]. The man of God must flee divisive talk. "[The false teachers are] puffed up with conceit and understand[] nothing. [They have] an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth" [1 TIMOTHY 6:4, 5]. The man of God must not stumble into the error and religious delusion that imagines godliness to be "a means of gain" [1 TIMOTHY 6:5b]. And of course, the man of God must flee from "the love of money" [1 TIMOTHY 6:10].
In his later letter, Paul will insist that flight is a defence against sensuality. "Flee youthful passions" [2 TIMOTHY 2:22]. The admonition is akin to his command to flee sexual immorality. "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body" [1 CORINTHIANS 6:18]. Associated with the need to flee from sexual immorality and youthful passions is the need to "flee from idolatry" [1 CORINTHIANS 10:14].
Let me take a moment to caution against the spirit of this age, a spirit that exalts our own desires above holiness. For many years the philosophy of this darkened, dying age appears to have been, "If it feels good, do it." Man is central to his worship. Personal ethics are focused almost exclusively on the individual. It is as though we are witnessing the revival of the ancient concept, "Everyone did what was right in his own eyes" [JUDGES 17:6; 21:25]. Thus, we have arrived at a day in which sexual gratification, wherever that may lead and however it may be achieved, has become the summum bonum of life. Marriage is for convenience—a transient contract that can be dissolved when it is no longer personally satisfying. In fact, we are quite prepared to define marriage as whatever we want it to be, as we define deviancy down. In such an age, the man of God must not only declare the standard of the Word, he must live that standard in such a way that those who know him know that he does not deviate to the right or to the left as he pursues the will of God.
We are a fallen people, and I must address what I fear can be a serious problem for some people listening today. Few of us are eager to face. We are not trained to identify what is evil. Consequently, we run toward things that ultimately threaten us—pleasure, position, power, fame, wealth, power. However, we should flee from these things, and especially when we are unable to resist them displacing the Holy One from our lives. I fear that some will hear my words as permission to run from responsibility or to run from issues that must be faced. However, I have not advocated escapism; I have urged us to face our fears. I have counselled believers to avoid that which is displeasing to God, turning to that which honours Him. And especially have I advocated that each of us who are known as overseers must ensure that we walk in this manner.
PURSUE THESE GRACES — "But as for you, O man of God … Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness." If Timothy will honour God and fulfil the service to which he has been appointed, he must cultivate some characteristics. Righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness do not magically appear because someone is called Reverend. Because a man has been appointed to holy office does not mean that these characteristics are divinely conferred at the point of his being set apart to this holy service; he must labour to secure these virtues in his life. Moreover, it will be a lifelong pursuit as the virtues will never be absolutely and fully secured in his life until the Master returns.
God never calls us to remove that which hinders and corrupts without replacing those things with that which is better. Timothy is to flee from that which dishonours the Master. He is to flee from that which threatens the spiritual welfare of the people of God. However, Timothy's flight is not to be a panic-stricken rush that careens from pillar to post; he is to flee in a positive direction. Just as fast as he is to flee from that which is evil, he is to rush toward that which is holy and good. He is to replace what some might imagine to be sacrifice with that which is of true worth. The man of God is to jettison that which corrupts as he rushes toward spiritual virtue. This concept is taught in the Letter to Hebrew Christians. "Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God" [HEBREWS 12:1, 2].
The man of God is to pursue a course defined by the use of six nouns named in three pairs. These pairs define the balanced spirituality of the Christian leader. These virtues must be pursued, cultivated and embraced so that the man of God may move toward being conformed to the image of God's dear Son.
The virtues listed seem to be so familiar that we almost turn off our hearing when the preacher begins to speak of these graces. However, few of us have ever fully secured the virtues. The first pair of graces is righteousness and godliness. I suppose we need to identify what is in view, if only to ensure that no one mistakes what is presented for some quality that differs significantly.
The man of God is to pursue righteous and godliness. When we speak of righteousness, we mean that one is to do what is right, in relation both to God and to man. What is in view is not the righteousness of Christ imputed to us at salvation; rather, Paul is speaking of holiness of life. The man of God must be known for doing what is right. His lifestyle is to be marked by obedience to God's commands. This quality is observable; and the people of God will know if their elder is righteous, whether he is conformed to the image of Christ the Lord.
The internal counterpart to righteousness is godliness. Righteousness speaks of one's outward behaviour, but godliness deals with attitudes and motives. These two character traits are associated because right behaviour grows out of right motives. The concept behind godliness is that of a reverence for God that flows out of a heart that holds Him in awe; godliness points to the outward evidences of a genuine faith and reverence for the Lord God. True worship eventuates in godliness, and godliness leads to righteousness. Truly, the two aspects cannot be separated in life. Perhaps it would be appropriate to speak of godliness as "Godlikeness." The concept is that one acts in such a manner that it is evident that the consciousness of God is always uppermost in his mind.
John MacArthur cites a variety of Puritan writers to address these two graces. [8] Here are a couple of those citations that are worthy of consideration. "The Puritan John Flavel pointedly observed, 'Brethren, it is easier to declaim against a thousand sins of others, than to mortify one sin in ourselves' (Cited in I. D. E. Thomas, A Puritan Golden Treasury [Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1977], 191).
"John Owen added, 'A minister may fill his pews, his communion roll, the mouths of the public, but what that minister is on his knees in secret before God Almighty, that he is and no more' (Cited in Thomas, A Puritan Golden Treasury, 192)."
Then we are presented with a familiar duet of graces—faith and love. Faith in this instance speaks of the individual's personal trust in God. Faith is not the hopeful chant of uncertainty as timid people gingerly tiptoe past the terrors of this world. Faith is the genuine confidence that leads the child of God to walk, not knowing where he is going but knowing the One who carries him. Faith is not presumption; faith is confidence.
After listing those whose names are inscribed on the divine Hall of Faith, the author of the Letter to Hebrew Christians provides this sobering assessment. "All these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised" [HEBREWS 11:39]. In this past week, Lynda and I have reviewed on several occasions the steps we took that led us to this place and this time. We were quite comfortable in Dallas, serving in a secure situation when we became convinced that God was leading us to Canada. We left behind a wonderful church of 24,000 members to assume the pastorate of a congregation with five members. Promised support from the denomination in which I served evaporated before we had even finished packing. Mount Saint Helens blew her top as we were nearing Wyoming. Everything seemed against continuing on, except for an undefined confidence that God was directing our way. As was true of Abraham, we "went out, not knowing where [we were] going" [HEBREWS 11:8].
I had a lot of desires for my service before the Lord; but looking back, I can speak with confidence when I say that we walked by faith. God was faithful; and He graciously directed our steps. We are where we should be, and I have served where He appointed me to serve. He stood with me in every instance. And I fulfilled the ministry He assigned through the strength that He provided. God was faithful and we arrived at this place.
Paul frequently unites faith with love, and he does so here. When he speaks of love, he speaks of that self-sacrificing love that we received from the Master. This love is unnatural because it is supernatural. There may be no warm feelings about those we are to love; but love is the hallmark of the man of God. The elder will have received love [see 1 TIMOTHY 1:13, 14]. Now he is to express love, especially in divisive situations. "Do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me. Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus" [2 TIMOTHY 1:8-13].
Timothy had a model for this love in Paul. "You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness" [2 TIMOTHY 3:10]. Now, Timothy was responsible to provide the same example to others. "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" [1 TIMOTHY 4:12].
I must make an observation concerning love. We speak frequently of love without understanding how unnatural that quality is in the life of a fallen creature such as ourselves. Jesus spoke of two Great Commandments. You may recall the passage. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself" [MATTHEW 22:37-39]. Until I love God with my whole being, it is impossible to love my neighbour as myself. In loving God fully, I reflect His love toward others. It can never be otherwise.
Finally, the man of God is to pursue steadfastness and gentleness. Steadfastness speaks of victorious, triumphant, unswerving loyalty to the Master in the midst of all trials. Paul had exemplified steadfastness. "You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness" [2 TIMOTHY 3:10]. This quality should be witnessed in increasing measure in older men. Paul wrote Titus, "Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness" [TITUS 2:2]. This virtue means one will stay at the task until it is completed and regardless of the cost.
Paired with steadfastness is gentleness. The word is a hapax legomenon, occurring only here in the New Testament. The emphasis of the word appears to be upon controlling one's emotions when facing wrong. In short, the man of God not only is steady under pressure, his steadiness exhibits the right attitude. Gentleness is perhaps best defined as that virtue that ensures the man of God is tender, exhibiting patient self-control when dealing with people during the press of ministry. It is, if you will, strength under control.
Timothy is enjoined to pursue a balanced spiritual lifestyle in his ministry. We may have various ideas concerning spirituality, but Paul teaches that spirituality is active, involving things that must be done. We are to flee from evil as we would run from danger, just as we are to run after goodness as we would run after success. If we do this, we will take giant steps toward becoming a man of God.
The focus of the Apostle's teaching has been the inner life and character of the Christian leader. While these virtues are identified with the inner life of the man of God, character is reflected in how that man lives. The people of God witness the work of God in the life of the man of God. They hear his teaching, and that teaching should have an impact. However, if the manner in which the Christian leader lives out his inner life fails to reflect the reality of his profession, the people of God will stumble.
Surely, the words that I've spoken today are directed toward myself and my brother elders. We must take heed, for we are charged with the care of souls. However, the people of God must heed what has been reviewed so that you act with discretion in your dealings with the elders. You must hold the elders accountable to the Word, watching your own souls lest you stumble into error. Likewise, you must encourage and commend the elders to become men of God as outlined in this Word. In doing this, we honour the Master, strengthen the fellowship of believers and enhance the doctrine of Christ the Lord.
May God be glorified by giving us men of God. Amen.
[1] Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
[2] The Holy Bible: Holman Christian Standard Version (Holman Bible Publishers, Nashville, TN 2009)
[3] International Standard Version (ISV Foundation, Yorba Linda, CA 2011)
[4] The full account is given in 2 KINGS 1:9-16
[5] See also JOSHUA 14:6; 1 CHRONICLES 23:14; 2 CHRONICLES 30:16; EZRA 3:2; PSALM 90 (TITLE)
[6] J. N. D. Kelly, Black's New Testament Commentary: The Pastoral Epistles (Continuum, London 1963) 139
[7] John Bunyan, The Pilgrim's Progress: From This World to That Which is to Come (Logos Research Systems, Inc., Oak Harbor, WA 1995)
[8] John F. MacArthur, Jr., The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: 1 Timothy (Moody Press, Chicago, IL 1995) 259-262


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The World's Cheapest Places To Live in 2017, Top 10 cheapest cities to live in the world.
Decide where to stay from the list of top 10 cheapest big cities to live in 2017: If you are willing to settle in one of the cheapest cities in the world, then you must be planning to live in any of the nations of the south Asia. It is the place that is best place to live in and is also the cheapest. The biggest city is not the city where the food and lodge or the rental house is available cheap. It is the population of the city that makes it cheaper than all other cities.
The best top 10 cities to start living with your dear ones in 2017
If you are looking at the world political geographical scenario, then you will find that the most populous part of the world is in the south East Asia. Thus the cheapest cities must also be surrounded around there. The top cities that are cheap and where you can settle easily for the rest of the life are as follows:
1. Argentina: The place that combines with the dollars with that of the local financial mess making it all the more perfect to deal with that of the rates. Thus, it was proved Argentina is a place that is cheap to set up the living in a finest way so that one can relax in the ambiance. The cost of living is based only on real numbers so the import restrictions do not occur.
2. Mexico: The prices in this place are not high rise. One can drastically manage with the prices and the cost of the life in Mexico. The rents, foods and the labor cost is half the real amount. These needs of necessities always remain unchanged no matter whatever happens. Just in the same way if you tend to move to some other places owing to the holiday destinations, you will have to pay higher utility bills with energized life styles.
3. Nicaragua: The cheapest country of Central America lays the Nicaragua. The average of the tax salary is about relatively the well of factor and thus a person with at least a standard amount of money extravagantly by the local standards can stay well here. Reading various blogs and knowledge articles, one can easily make out the real cost of living with the country. There are people living in different corners of America, where you would find people paying through some other modes.
4. Ecuador: The place for International living is the big city of the Ecuador. There are many people, foreigners who settle in the low costs of living all throughout the place so that they can start refreshed and happily.
5. Panama: The cheapest destinations in the world are the Panama. Here you will be able to enjoy being in the nature's vicinity that too within the best adjustable limit. Copa Airlines is based here; therefore the flight connection is good and perfect.
6. Colombia: The biggest cities with the wonderful destinations among the country sides along with the beautiful women, gets popular just with the electric bills and the solid banking system. There are some important airports which have created direct connection with that of the multiple destinations.
7. Cambodia: Bargaining is a word that is not acquainted with. This is just only because everything is so within limit that there is no need for any sort of adjustment. The market force in this country makes it safe and secured than any other when compared.
8. Thailand: One can get easy visa to the distant land of Thailand. The person living here is good and thus adjusts with the frugal eating habit. The good news regarding the city is that it allows permit as soon as possible.
9. Portugal: Pretty inexpensive with that of the foreigners and their staple items that is out-strategeous and that too with the high employment increase till the road is being charged.
10. Bulgaria: the country is very easy to get the residency from that of the European Union with the food and blogger's reviews on this big city is as cool as its destination. You can expect to spend good time with your family and your cost of living expenses.
All the cities are so cheap that one year income at US cities and UK cities can afford you to live in those cities for entire life. You can get the best cities to start living with no drastic change in the political and cheapest with that of the cost of the living which matches with your earning strategy.


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Soldiers and Civilians: War in the Pacific 1941-1945
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"I hear kids in the hall saying jokes about the president," she said. "I've heard more then once, when kids are caught lying, they say, 'Well, the president does it, so it must be OK to lie.' It's ammunition to use in a situation when they're in trouble."
Likewise, Thousand Oaks resident Kathy Elfand worried about how children would interpret the president's behavior and subsequent acquittal.
"Unless you're a parent, you really don't understand how hard this is to explain," said Elfand, a mother of two. "The best thing to do is be honest with them and tell them what happened."
Buena High physical education teacher Blum, however, said his students were skeptical about the morality of their elected officials long before Clinton came along.
"This is a clear case of being caught lying and then heaping on more lies to cover the ones you've already told," he said. "I don't believe he got away with anything. He was caught lying. I always tell my kids that the truth will set them free. Had Clinton just told the truth, he would have saved himself and his family a lot of agony.


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Avaya, a communications solutions provider, cited its work with San Antonio's Security Service Federal Credit Union as one reason it won a top ranking among technology companies that serve the financial services sector.
Avaya of Bashing Ridge, N.J. was ranked among the top 25 technology companies based on financial services sales in an annual survey by the American Banker and Financial Insights. The FinTech survey showed Avaya earned $650 million in revenues from banks and other financial services companies last year, ranking it 23rd among the top 25.
An Avaya release recognized the company's work with Security Service and Banco Santander Chile as key factors in its growth.


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PortraitPro 17 SITEWIDE 50% off sale + EXTRA 15% OFF code EPZR18
Patrick Swayze R.I.P.
So sad, my wife's upset about his death even though in many ways it's been expected.
Wasn't his biggest big fan but, loved him in my all time fav movie, Point Break.
Very saddened to hear the news this morning... Roadhouse was brilliant.
What!! Oh dear... One of my favourite cooking 'characters'. He's shunned TV appearances in recent times unfortunately.
Really sad Loved Ghost, Dirty Dancing too but Point Break with the classic line "I caught my first tube today Sir" was better I think. Cant help thinking how frail Keith Floyd looked last night, ever the character to the the end though.
Quote:Roadhouse was brilliant.
I saw this at a friend's house when I was twelve. I thought my mum was going to kill my friend's parents!
He was good in Donnie Darko too, that role was a total paradigm shift.
After the latest image of Patrick released recently i thought he was well on the road to recovery, he looked ten times fitter than in the gaunt image that announced his battle. Very sad news.
Watched Ghost for the first time recently, had me in tears predictably, a great performance, very moving.
Watched Ghost for the first time recently, had me in tears predictably, a great performance, very moving.
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Thanks guys,looking forward to reading great guides
Thanks guys,looking forward to reading great guides
Finally the Newbie Guide is in the hottest threads section
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming WOW...What a Ride!
It's about time.... It should be #1 or #2.
This is totally just a bump to help it stay in there.
Amazing guide - thanks Virgil. I love this.
Last edited by admin; 04-16-2013 at 08:23 AM. Reason: user was not on topic
Great guide. Lots of good info here for the beginners/people who have no idea where to start.
Lots of good stuff in here. Thanks for the info man
hey guys! my name's Calvin. am new here. really lookin forward to sharing and learning with all of you.
Thanks man, great info for us newbies.
PUG in the making right here thanks for the guide


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A lighthearted bildungsroman, The Wonder Spot follows Sophie Applebaum through her adolescence in Surrey, Pennsylvania— where dad's a judge and mom's a homemaker—all the way to her newfound adulthood. After college at a second-tier liberal arts school, Sophie moves to the Big Apple, where she bounces from a short-lived career in publishing to a more satisfying post in advertising, and searches for Mr. Right. We not only follow Sophie's travails, but those of her family: Sophie's grandmother ages and declines, her mother gets restless in her Donna Reed marriage, and her brother explores Orthodox Judaism. By the end of the book, readers know that not only has Sophie grown up—chick lit, it seems, has too.
Viking. 336 pages. $24.95. ISBN: 0670034118
Atlantic Monthly
"Melissa Bank's terrific new novel lacks the topical conflicts and poetic imagery that critics appreciate, and its strong suit—a companionable, offhand sense of humor leading to subtle revelations of character—Is deceptively difficult to achieve. … Bank's central theme is the lifelong quest to balance obligation and personal pleasure, a conflict each Applebaum must somehow resolve." Elizabeth Judd
Chicago Sun-Times
"Forget sophomore slump: this book proves that the second time's a charm. … The most gratifying aspect of The Wonder Spot involves tracking the Applebaum family through two decades." Elisabeth Egan
Hartford Courant
"This assured, beautifully crafted story showcases a young woman who struggles to find her footing and in the process captivates with her wry observations and awkward charm. … Sophie is a wonder, and it's a pleasure to enjoy her witty, wistful company."
Carole Goldberg
Los Angeles Times
"Bank's work, especially The Wonder Spot, is more like a five-course meal: loaded with pleasure and calories, yes, but offering enough protein and complex carbohydrates to satisfy both body and soul. … Bank mixes humor with sadness while leavening difficulty with laughter to create a rich narrative that gratifies on many levels."
Bernadette Murphy
Entertainment Weekly
"The Wonder Spot, Bank's bittersweet, tremendously winning return, isn't just a great read. It is a wake-up call, alerting the literary establishment that stories about young women's coming-of-age can still be enthralling, engaging, and deserving of their notice." Jennifer Weiner
People Weekly
"Fans will be happy to know that in her latest Bank balances humor and poignance within the genre's format to deliver a satisfying read. But anyone growing weary of the Bridgets and Sophies of the literary world may be disappointed to learn that this talented author missed an opportunity to steer the genre in a new direction." Lisa Ingrassia
Critical Summary
Reviewers likely licked their chops when they got the galleys to The Wonder Spot in the mail—a chance to take superstar Melissa Bank down a peg and write the predictable second-novel review: "Bank was just a one-book wonder…" But Bank defied them, and critics roundly agree that her second book shines just as brightly as The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing (1999). Yes, the two books share certain superficial similarities—young female protagonist, the presence of poodles, the death of a dad—but The Wonder Spot is in many ways the more mature, more sophisticated read.


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Limecello's review of Kiss of a Demon King (Immortals After Dark, Book 6) by Kresley Cole
Paranormal romance released by Pocket on 20 Jan 09
This is the sixth book in Kresley Cole's series Immortals After Dark, and I enjoyed it very much. I coveted Rydstrom's book, and I think his story fit him perfectly. I also neglected all sorts of other things I was supposed to be doing in order to read this book. In fact, I've been in a massive reading funk, but still read Kiss of a Demon King – which should give you some indication as to how much I liked it. So you should read it too, if you haven't already done so. 😉
I have to admit, the beginning of the book, and even about the first third were just "good" not great in my opinion- yet I couldn't put the book down because I wanted to know what happened next. I also gradually became more and more invested in the story. I've always had a soft sport for Rydstrom – I mean, who wouldn't feel sympathy for a king who has been trying to reclaim his throne for centuries? And while Sabine isn't exactly lovable at first, she's something like a cute, but repressed (in terms of affection) kitten with enormous[ly] sharp claws. (She grew on me.)
Sabine, the Queen of Illusions, is on the side of evil. There's a lot of uncertainty when it comes to Sabine – not just because of her magical powers. Sabine herself is a mix of contradictions and facades, much like the illusions she weaves. It helps to know what motivates her, and controls her, which really makes her more likable.
I have to admit, while I didn't initially love her personality, I respected her. And it's always a good thing to have a strong heroine – especially one that is an equal to the hero. Sabine truly is a character that has been shaped by her circumstances, but rather than getting mopey about it or shrinking into herself, she takes on the world. You have to admire that. And really, Sabine isn't as bad as everyone thinks. Though I like that she revels in the fear and dislike she inspires.
Rydstrom is also a contradiction, but in a different way. He's also the quintessential good guy. Rydstrom's personality is the opposite of what you would expect it to be considering his appearance and physical attributes. However, I really liked that Ms. Cole had Rystrom really let go in Kiss of a Demon King. (And after comporting himself so nicely for the past five centuries, I'd say he was entitled to some bad behavior.)
I loved that Rydstrom was so conflicted. (I'm sadistic that way.) It was amusing how appalled he was by his own behavior, and surprisingly, it didn't bother me that he continued on in the same manner to reach his goals. Tenacity is something else I admire. (And the way Ms. Cole wrote it, Rydstrom isn't being a hypocrite- he's just shocked by his own behavior and out of character responses.)
For Rydstrom and Sabine, it really is a case of opposites attract. While at the core they're both good, the way they approach life and their priorities differ vastly. It is incredibly entertaining watching them get to know each other, and reading about one trying to understand the other's motives. And you know, the first half or so of the book is a sexual battle of wills, which is always fun. First we have Sabine taunting Rydstrom, complete with a dungeon and chains. Then Rydstrom takes his turn with a whole new reason for bondage – and his torture/revengs, while twisted, is a bit sweeter, as part of his purpose is to get to know Sabine.
Are you intrigued yet? Because you should be! As I said, I really like the Immortals After Dark series. In fact, I've enjoyed the series so much I've felt compelled to discuss each and every book. While I can't stand long series, I have to admit I eagerly anticipate the next IAD story. *Faint* I just went to Ms. Cole's site to check. We've got a long wait – next is A Deep Kiss of Winter, which is only a novella, and it comes out November '09. It is Murdoch (yay!) and Daniela's story. And the next full length novel, Pleasure of a Dark Prince will be released January, 2010. So if you haven't read the six previous books, you've got time to catch up.
Grade: A
Read reviews, excerpts, and other information on this series by following its tag.
His obsession: the enchantress who surrenders her body, but not her heart.
After Sabine, the Queen of Illusions, lures and traps Rydstrom Woede in her lair, the ruthless warrior fights to resist her seduction.But his fierce demon nature lusts for her delicate body and won't be denied. Even as Rydstrom plots to escape, he still intends to claim Sabine as his own—on his terms.
Her downfall: the battle-scarred demon who vows to keep her at all costs.
When Rydstrom breaks free, her abducts Sabine, turning the tables. Now she's the one struggling to resist his delicious torment. With each relentless encounter, Sabine hungers more for her merciless adversary.
They were never supposed to want each other this much…
If they can defeat the sinister enemy that stands between them, will Sabine make the ultimate sacrifice to save her demon? Or will the proud king lay down his crown and arms to keep his sorceress?
Read an excerpt here.
Other books in the series:
… and Not That Innocent, a new anthology with by Kresley Cole, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gena Showalter, and Sharie Kohler, coming 21 Jul 09.


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Backpack: Brahmin
...that big huge chunky dark not so fashiony contraption used by mostly boys and some gals to carry large amounts of texts books to and from classes that we all generally would like to forget. The mere thought actually carries a little PTSD. With that said I find myself hearing from most adults who have long left the trauma of the school yard behind, that a backpack in fashion is just not for them.


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Peter Sinn Nachtrieb explores the humorous side of mankind's annihilation in 'Boom'
BOOM at The MAC,
3120 McKinney Ave.
Through March 13. $15–$30.
When you stand 6 feet 6, it's hard to work in "underground" theater, but that's basically what Peter Sinn Nachtrieb does with Boom. But his play, set in a subterranean lab, has more in common with the underground than its setting. It also reflects Nachtrieb's skewed take on relationships.
It's hard not to draw parallels between the play's protagonist, Jules, and the playwright himself — most notably, that both are gay men who studied marine biology (though Nachtrieb, natch, double-majored in theater).
"Definitely some of the backstory of Jules was culled from my life," Nachtrieb admits from his home in San Francisco. "Before dawn, we would go to these reefs seeing which fish were mating with other fish. The atmosphere of that world all made it into the play. And I've been told there are mannerisms of Jules that resemble me. He's close to a worldview I have, especially about how I try to make sense of things. The less autobiographical part shows up later."
And by "later," he means after mankind is wiped off the face of the earth by a comet.
And if you couldn't tell, Boom is a comedy.
Boom builds on the kind of premise you'd find on Twilight Zone, filtered through a surreal sketch comedy troupe: Gay nerd sets up blind date with straight woman with the intention of repopulating the planet. (It sort of poses the question, "Would you really not sleep with him if he were the last man on earth?") Indeed, one of his other plays, Hunter Gatherers (which recently had a run in Addison), was first performed by a comedy troupe.
Still, Nachtrieb doesn't like to overthink Boom, which has, quite literally, exploded on the theater scene: More than a dozen performances in the past year, including one that opens Friday at Kitchen Dog Theater.
"I have an obsession on apocalyptic themes," he concedes. "I've always loved disaster movies, too, so that's always interested me in my writing. And I love comedy."
His loosey-goosey attitude may explain the casual way he writes his stage directions, which are full of vague suggestions but few specifics.
"I don't want to be prescriptive," he says. "Some of the stuff is suggesting an impulse behind the character. In general, it has been exciting and positive to see the various versions [of my plays]. Some are clearly more successful than others but there's no perfect production in my mind, though Kitchen Dog seems like a perfect place for it."
Nachtrieb started on the other side of the footlights, appearing in his college theater, including a life-changing production of West Side Story, where he played Riff. Looking around the dressing room he realized all the other Jets were gay and wondered, as their leader, whether he was, too.
"Being in that play helped me start to more actively explore my sexuality. I talked to my parents about it before I talked to my friends, which is definitely not the usual way. There was no Craigslist when I was in college; if there was I probably wouldn't have gotten much done."
Acting eventually led to writing (Boom is Nachtrieb's sixth play), which has been supported by his "more-than-a-boyfriend" — they've been together coming up on nine years — who works as a nurse … and supplies fodder for Nachtrieb's plots.
"He has a really good sense of sass," he says. "I have never based a single character on him but he's quicker on his tongue than I am, and some of his good comebacks have made it into a lot of characters. But I still have not found the right the play for all the poop stories he has from the hospital."
There's always play No. 7 for that.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition February 12, 2010.


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Angry hockey fans sue arena over beer scam
Fans of the Idaho Steelheads hockey team are suing the arena where home games are played because the concession stand sells a large beer in a tall skinny cup for $7 and a small beer in a short wide cup for $4, but both cups hold the same amount of beer.
Fans of the ECHL team are seeking $10,000 in damages, The Associated Press reported.
A fan posted a video to YouTube showing the amount of beer in each cup is the same.
Eric Trapp, president of CenturyLink Arena, acknowledged the problem on the team's Facebook page.
"The differentiation in the size of the two cups is too small. To correct that problem, we're purchasing new cups for the large beers that will hold 24 ounces, instead of 20, for the remainder of this season to provide better value to our fans," he wrote in a statement.


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Hard Lessons
By Lyn
Missing tags for Love and Guns. Part of the Life Is A Bridge Series
Many thanks as always to Annie for her stellar beta and support over the past difficult months.
The last thing I remember is Varga's machete swinging at my head. I can't recall the impact but I'm figuring if I'm waking up, he must have used the handle end and not the blade. At that thought, my stomach attempts to turn itself inside out and I feel bile rise up in my throat. I choke, panicking when I realize I'm gagged.
"Easy, easy," I hear a soothing voice say from above me.
The cloth is tugged down and then I'm rolled onto my side. As gentle as the movement is, my head feels like it's about to explode and I'm sure I'm going to throw up on my good samaritan's shoes. Black shoes, white socks. Jim! I angle my head up and squint at him. He looks like crap. Cuts pepper his face and he's already got a heck of a bruise coming up on one cheek. I'm guessing I look just as bad, if not worse.
I can hear voices in the background – Maya is okay, thank god, and demanding to see her father. My heart sinks a little at that. After all he's put her – and me – through, I wouldn't have been surprised if she never wanted to set eyes on him again.
I force back the nausea and struggle to sit up but Jim pushes me back to the ground, frowning, and looks over his shoulder. "Take her to her father," he says brusquely. Then he turns back to me, carefully sitting me up and working on the rope binding my hands. I suck in a breath as the circulation is restored and pins and needles scorch through my fingers. I reach up to wipe at my sore mouth but my movements are uncoordinated and clumsy so I give up and droop forward, resting my throbbing hands in my lap.
"How you feeling, Chief?" Jim asks, cupping his hand under my chin and lifting my head to scrutinize my face. "Asshole got some good hits in," he says almost conversationally though his frown is still there and I can see the concern in his eyes.
I shrug then wish I hadn't as my head threatens to fall off and I have a moment's panic wondering if Varga did actually use the blade on me after all. Weird how your mind works when you have a concussion. "I'm okay," I assure him, though we both know that's a lie. "I need to see Maya."
"She's been taken to her father," Jim replies. He pats my shoulder then stands up and moves back a step before I have the chance to apologize for screwing everything up. "Let the medics check you over, Sandburg."
"I'm fine—" I start to say but he cuts me off with a shake of his head.
"Let 'em check you out," he says firmly, and I know it's no good arguing when he uses that tone. He gestures over his shoulder. "Drennan got hit…"
"Oh god," I can barely whisper the words. "Is she—"
"I'm sure she's gonna be fine, Sandburg. Let these guys take a look at you, huh?"
And with that, he's gone, and despite his assurances about Drennan, I can't help feeling more than ever that I screwed up worse than I ever have before. Jim trusted me to work this case with him and I acted like a horny teenager, falling head over heels in love with the suspect's daughter, totally blind-sided by my emotions and blinded to anything else than her.
I feel like crap, and not just physically. My head is pounding and keeping time with the throbbing of my swollen lip and black eye. A sharp pain from my ribs feels like a knife jabbing into me whenever I try to move even just the slightest bit, but nothing, not even the pain can eclipse the grief, guilt, and shame I feel right now. I screwed up so badly and there is nothing I can say or do to make things better for Maya, not enough ways to apologize to Jim for getting too involved with her and putting not just myself in danger but her and everyone else as well.
I shift onto my side and bite my already abused lower lip to keep myself from making a sound. I can hear muted voices from the kitchen and I know, even though Jim is absorbed in his conversation with Drennan, he will still hear every sound I make.
I feel chilled to the bone and as weak as a kitten but I begin to drift off anyway, my exhaustion from the past days catching up with me at last. There's a sound at the doorway and I struggle to open my heavy eyelids, startled to see Maya standing there.
Well, that went well… not! I watch Maya leave without a backward glance at me, not even responding when Jim asks her if she's doing okay and if there's anything he can do for her. She's going back to Chile anyway and I'll probably never see her again. Jim will no doubt say good riddance and that it's a good thing and if I hadn't have fallen head over heels in love with her, I'd probably agree.
She did at least say that she loved me too… but that she hated me as well for what I did and I guess I can't blame her for that. Carasco is an evil son of a bitch but he's still her father and my subterfuge, regardless of my feelings for her getting in the way, helped to put him behind bars.
I doubt Jim is going to ask me any time soon, if ever, but if there's so much of a hint of me going undercover to help out on a case again, the answer is going to be a flat out and resounding no! I might have helped to put Carasco behind bars but I don't think my emotions, let alone my body, could stand another assault like this.
I gingerly lie back down on the bed, hoping to drift back to sleep, where I can forget all about this for a while longer. I can hear Jim talking quietly to Drennan as he walks her to the door. Sounds like she's decided against staying, and it doesn't take much for the guilt to eat away at me once more and assume that it's probably because she knows I'm here. I wouldn't want to face the naïve idiot who got me shot either.
I've got a real good pity party going on and tears burn my eyes then I hear footsteps approaching my room. Don't come in here, Jim, I beg silently. I really could do without a lecture on how badly I screwed up right now. I've already had the one about checking my emotions at the door during the case with David Lash and apparently none of it stuck.
My luck is still out and Jim pokes his head in through the curtain. He leans casually against the door jamb, holding a bowl in one hand, idly stirring the contents with a fork.
Instead of the chewing out I'm expecting, he's talking about Drennan and MSG and then he holds the bowl out toward me. "Want some noodles?" he asks.
It takes me a minute to be able to speak. I'm still trying to hold back my emotions and I am so not going to start blubbering like a baby in front of Jim but his gentle, unassuming way of checking up on me, making sure I'm okay after Maya's visit has me close to breaking down anyway. I manage to dredge up half a smile that makes my split lip sting, hoping he'll pick up on my appreciation for his concern despite my rebuttal of his gesture of comfort food.
"Not right now, Jim," I finally say and he watches me for a moment longer then gives me one of his all too rare gentle smiles, nods and leaves.
I lay back again and now I'm alone, I finally give in to my sadness, mourning what might have been… but my grief is assuaged by knowing my friend, my partner is here for me.


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Enjoy outdoor sports such as paragliding and camping. A park renowned for its 200 cherry trees and 20,000 azaleas.
Ina, in the south of Nagano, is located between the Central and Southern Alps along the Tenryu-gawa River. The city prospered for many centuries as the main settlement along the Ina-ji Road, an important thoroughfare.
Kasuga-koen Park is situated on the small hill overlooking the city. The park, which contains the ruins of Kasuga Castle, is renowned for its flowers, with around 200 cherry trees and 20,000 azaleas. At the Miharashi Farm at Habiro Agricultural Park, visitors can enjoy picking fresh strawberries, and the enormous 10-hectare site also includes public hot spring facilities and lodgings. Visitors can also experience making bamboo crafts, dyeing with vegetable dyes, weaving, and making soba noodles.
In the vast nature, you can enjoy free flight paragliding (a license is required) or camping. At the Rally-Kids Ina motor sports facility, you may want to try some other kinds of outdoor activities such as driving a go-cart or mini-bike. Ina is also known for its special cuisine and culture: They serve several insect dishes there, such as locusts and baby bees, 'Romen' noodles with mutton, as well as horsemeat dishes.
- Directions
From Tokyo:
[Rail] 2h 30 min from Shinjuku (Tokyo) to Okaya Station by JR Chuo Line (limited express Azusa), and 40 min from Okaya to Ina-shi Station by JR Iida Line.


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Why are Workers Compensation Claims Denied in New Jersey?
Workers compensation provides important protections for both employers and workers. Even when employees suffer injuries due to their own carelessness, they can still obtain benefits to pay for the costs associated with their injuries. The coverage also protects employers by prohibiting workers from filing lawsuits when unsafe conditions or other circumstances cause accidents. This does… Read More »