#James rebukes

[bristolchurch]

From Pulpits to Purses

When Riches Are Mistaken for Spiritual Fruit: Ah, the allure of the almighty Mammon! Some pastors seem to believe that if you have financial abundance, you must surely be overflowing with the fruit of the Spirit. Forget about love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—money is the true indicator of a person’s spiritual maturity. Who knew that a…

[wiirocku]

James 1:5 (NLT) - If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

A Plea for Mercy

To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments; according to The Sheminith. A Psalm of David.

1 O Lord, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.

2 Have mercy upon me, O Lord; for I am weak: O Lord, heal me; for my bones are vexed.

3 My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O Lord, how long?

4 Return, O Lord, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake.

5 For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?

6 I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.

7 Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.

8 Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping.

9 The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer.

10 Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly. — Psalm 6 | King James Version (KJV) The King James Version Bible is in the public domain. Cross References: 1 Samuel 1:27; 1 Chronicles 15:21; Job 7:13; Job 17:7; Psalm 3:7; Psalm 17:13; Psalm 22:1; Psalm 22:14; Psalm 27:9; Psalm 30:2; Psalm 30:9; Psalm 31:9; Psalm 71:13; Psalm 71:24; Psalm 74:9; Psalm 88:10; Matthew 7:23; Luke 13:27; John 12:27

[moonstruckme]

tumblr is hiding only the request I want from me again :(

request: would u be able to do a poly emt marauders x reader where the reader is iron deficient cause she doesnt eat properly (always eating like "girl dinners") and the boys tell her off for it

cw: poor eating/nutrition intake, potential ed triggers although portions aren't mentioned and the boys aren't concerned about reader's general relationship to food, Sirius being a bit prickly because he's worried+protective

emt!marauders x fem!reader ♡ 821 words

It’s only just past dark, but your head longs for a pillow. Sirius’ shoulder does well for now, his fan of cards held in his other hand to avoid jostling you as he plays rummy with your boyfriends. You’d surrendered your own cards to the discard pile a few rounds ago, content to watch Sirius on your one side and Remus on your other as they both try to beat James, who’s better at the game than any of you. He radiates a smug self-assurance as he looks down at his cards that bodes poorly for your other boyfriends. 

James looks up and catches you watching him, his instinctive smile tinging with sympathy as he notes your drooping eyes. “Sleepy, sweetheart?” 

“Yeah, sorry.” You try to blink yourself to alertness. “I’ve been tired so early lately, I don’t know why.” 

There’s a brief moment of silence wherein you think to regret your statement. Then, Sirius sing-songs, “I know.” 

You groan, transfering to Remus’ shoulder in a show of dissent. He chuckles and takes you in, wrapping an arm around you. His cards fold over your shoulder. 

“He’s right, you know,” Remus says. 

“Angel.” James sets his cards down, looking at you imploringly. “Let me make you something, please.” 

“I already ate.” 

Sirius scoffs. “You had a snack.” 

You turn your forehead into Remus’ shoulder sulkily. You know any arguments will only be rebuked. 

Your boyfriends came home from their shift just in time to find you finishing up your dinner. On your plate was everything you could want—sweet, savory, and just enough to fill you up—but evidently it left something to be desired for them. Remus had looked down at it and said, “That’s not your dinner, is it?” 

“Yeah,” you replied, warily. 

“Baby,” Sirius laughed, picking up a grape. “This is not a meal.” 

You stole the grape back from him, popping it into your mouth. “It’s girl dinner.” 

“I’m fairly sure girls need just as much nutrients as everyone else, gorgeous.” 

“There’s nutrients in this.” You waved demonstratively to your plate of grapes, cheese, and crackers. That was practically half of the food pyramid, you were pretty sure. “Leave my dinner alone.” 

Remus had begun talking about the necessity of balanced meals, and things devolved from there into a debate about health and nutrition which you’d tabled by telling your boyfriends (with love) to mind their own business. You doubt you’re getting out of it again quite so easily. 

“It’s not like I had a chocolate bar,” you mumble. “It was healthy.” 

“It was healthy,” James agrees, tone placating. “It just wasn’t everything you need in a meal, sweetheart. You’re probably tired because there was no iron in there.” 

“I’ve been tired for days, though.” 

“And when was the last time you had an iron-rich meal?” Remus asks. 

You’re silent. Sirius laughs. 

“It can be hard to keep track of.” James is ever forgiving. “How about some eggs, yeah?” 

You turn your face again to look at him. “I’m already pretty full,” you say honestly. 

“One egg, then. With spinach.” He stands, leaving his cards flat on the table and stooping to drop a kiss on your head as he goes by. “Thank you, m’love.” 

“Thanks,” you say back, sheepish. 

You fall quiet again after James goes. You listen to the sound of the cupboards opening and closing in the kitchen, the crack of an egg, the stove being flicked on. After a while, Sirius snickers and pokes your ribs. 

“Don’t pout,” he says. He pokes you again until you smile, hiding it under Remus’ arm. 

“I hate it when you guys are right.” You heave a sigh, affecting a tone of mopiness. “It’s never any fun for me.” 

“Awe.” Sirius leans over to rest his head on your shoulder. Remus chuckles, shifting his arm to accommodate the both of you. “I’m sorry it happens to you so often, baby.” 

That makes you laugh, though you try to muffle the sound. “Mean.” 

“I’ve never claimed to be anything different.” 

“It’s important to be sure you’re getting everything you need from your food, dove,” says Remus, at one soft and stern. “You need to choose more carefully.” 

“Okay,” you acquiesce. In truth, the fight left you long ago. “Sorry.” 

“You don’t need to be sorry, though.” He kisses the top of your head. 

“You can totally make it up,” says James, coming back with a small plate, “by eating these delicious eggs.” 

You take the plate from him with a small smile of thanks. “Eggs, as in plural?” 

He grins, caught. “There may be two. Sorry.” 

“This is how you earn your forgiveness,” Sirius teases, sitting up so you can eat. He bumps your shoulder lightly with his. 

“Yeah, yeah.” You roll your eyes, but scoop up a forkful of eggs. After your first mouthful, you say, “These are really good, Jamie. Thanks.” 

His beaming smile is worth the stomachache. 

[fourmoony]

hi hun! for trick or treat could i get a treat with remus please? any fluffy fall vibes and im over the moon! 💕

thanks for requesting lovely! ♡︎

630 words | cw: mentions of smelling like cigarettes, but no details of smoking

Remus drops a kiss to your head in passing, warm hand squeezing the flesh of your hip as he shuffles between you and James' counter top. There's plenty of room in James' kitchen, pretty much everyone is in the living room arguing over whether or not The Nightmare Before Christmas is a Halloween or Christmas movie, but you don't mind the proximity.

You live for it, in fact. The warm, fuzzy feeling his presence brings. The whole night has been very wholesome, a happy warmth glowing in the centre of your chest. James' kitchen windows are fogged up from the condensation of the warm pot of soup Mary brought, warming on the stove, and the bitter air outside - and the house smells like Euphemia Potter's pumpkin spice muffins. There's half-hearted Halloween decorations strung up on various walls - Sirius' addition to Friend-O-Ween, the new tradition he's been banging on about for months in the run up.

Remus likes to remind him that in order for it to be a tradition, it has to have happened more than once. Sirius likes to rebuke that he can't wait to make Remus eat his words next year. You like the idea. Anything that involves downtime with the people you love, the ones who you cherish more than anything - that's your cup of tea.

"You're not joining the debate, love?" Remus asks, head in James' cupboard as he roots around for his favourite mug.

You spot it on the drying rack, hand reaching out for the soft fabric of his orange sweater. Remus turns, eyes softening when you place the mug in his hand. He kisses the very tip of your nose, eyes intent on watching the way your cheeks redden. "I wouldn't have any argument. I've never seen The Nightmare Before Christmas." You shrug, eyes fixed on the way Remus' long fingers wrap around his mug.

Your boyfriend tsks, "That just won't do."

You laugh as Remus flicks the kettle on, peering over the edge of Mary's pot to check on the soup. It brings tiny drops of condensation to his chin, his forehead. You reach out and swipe at the skin with gentle fingers. Remus smiles softly when you venture up into the curls of his hair. He needs a trim, you think.

"Best tell Mary her soups about to burn." Remus speaks lowly, like he's scared he'll scare you off from touching him if he speaks too loud.

It's a warranted idea. His beauty is astonishing, really. Intimidating. You'd never take your hands off him if you let yourself. But you do, now, to turn the burner off and move the soup to the side.

"You think Sirius will banish me for not having seen his favourite movie?" You ask humorously.

Remus chuckles, stirring his tea. "Best not mention it, love."

He turns, hand encasing yours as he tugs you towards him. He smells like pumpkin and his eucalyptus shower gel, a little like cigarettes, but you won't begrudge him it. Marlene's a bad influence. His hugs are always warm, comforting. You turn your ear to his heart, revel in the feel of his strong hand against your skull and shoulder blade, listen to it's steady thump, thump, thump.

His lips press to the side of your head, just at the same time Sirius appears in the arch way entry into the kitchen. He has his hands on his hips and a fury in his eyes, "Y/N," He huffs, "Tell them that The Nightmare Before Christmas is definitely a Halloween movie!"

Remus laughs quietly into your hair, his shoulders shaking with the effort to hold it in. You shove your boyfriend away, though he doesn't go far. He never does.

"Soups ready!" You smile, as convincingly as you can.

"Nice save, lovie." Remus whispers, hand squeezing your hip playfully.

[speaknow-sw]

imagine being the meat in a james kelly and clay beresford sandwich. jamie being a mean dom that manhandles and degrades you, and then there's clay with his soft touches and sweet praises 😩😵‍💫

OMG NONNIE I HAD TO WRITE IT BCS THIS WAS SO GOOD 😩😩😩

You found yourself abruptly lifted and plopped onto James's lap, his large hands gripping your hips hard enough to bruise as he positioned you over his thick, throbbing cock. With a brutal thrust of his hips, he speared you onto his length, not giving you any time to adjust before he started bouncing you on his lap like a rag doll.

"Fuck, so goddamn tight," James growled, his fingers digging into the soft flesh of your ass as he used the leverage to slam you down onto his cock over and over. The obscene sound of flesh slapping against flesh filled the room as he fucked up into you with ruthless abandon.

Clay, ever the gentle contrast, leaned in and captured one of your stiff nipples between his soft lips. He suckled gently, his tongue swirling around the hardened peak as his hand came up to cup and knead your other breast, rolling the nipple between his fingers. His other hand slid down your stomach, fingertips tracing the lines of your muscles as he caressed your skin.

"Mmm, you're so beautiful like this, baby," Clay murmured against your breast, his voice vibrating against your sensitive flesh. "So perfect, so responsive. I love seeing you like this, lost in pleasure, drowning in sensation." He dipped his head to your other breast, his lips wrapping around the nipple as he suckled harder, his teeth grazing the tender bud.

“P-Please…Oh…god…p-please…” You moaned desperately.

You could barely get the words out, your moans turning to desperate, garbled pleas as James pistoned into you with brutal force. "Please...please..." you whimpered, unsure exactly what you were begging for, only knowing you needed more, needed them to fill you, to consume you, to make you theirs completely.

James just smirked at your desperate pleas, one hand coming up to wrap around your throat, squeezing lightly as he fucked into you harder, deeper. "Please what, doll? Please fuck this tight cunt harder? Please fill this hungry little pussy with our cum?" He leaned in, his teeth sinking into the side of your neck, marking you, claiming you. "Please ruin you for anyone else? Fuckin' say it, slut. Tell me what you need."

Clay looked up at you, his blue eyes filled with tender concern even as he lavished attention on your breasts. "Shh, baby, it's okay. We know what you need," he murmured, his hand sliding down to rub your clit in slow, sensual circles. "You need to let go, darling. You need to surrender to the pleasure, to give yourself over to us completely."

He captured your lips with his own, kissing you deeply, his tongue delving into your mouth to stroke along yours. He swallowed your moans, drank down your desperation as he continued to touch you, to stroke you, to worship your body with gentle hands and a loving touch.

As you tried to grind your hips, seeking more friction against Clay's skilled fingers, you suddenly felt a sharp smack against your ass, the stinging pain blossoming across your skin. You yelped, your body jerking in surprise at the unexpected impact.

James smirked wickedly, his hand raising and falling in a brutal rhythm, smacking your ass hard enough to leave red handprints on your pale skin. "Did I say you could move, slut? Did I say you could take what you want?" He punctuated his words with a particularly hard thrust, grinding his cock deep into your core.

Clay looked up at you, his eyes filled with gentle rebuke even as his fingers continued their sensual dance across your clit. "Be a good girl, baby. Let him spank you, let him punish this naughty ass." His other hand slid up your side, cupping your breast, his thumb brushing across your nipple. "Then maybe we'll give you the release you so desperately crave."

[rahhhhhhs-blog]

Here is some shit my friend and I have said before but Marauders version!!

Sirius: that was the first thing that came to my mind, other than cumming to him in my mind

Remus: honestly, you know what-

Sirius: I love you😍

Remus: WHAT-

----------------------------------------------------

James: I ran out of inches

Sirius: oh no! *Emo side hair*

James: you always gotta be on some emo shit

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*In-text*

James: the coochie hair is in the microwave, or wtv the astrology bitches say

Remus: excuse me?

James: the nercury is in the microwat

Remus: Jamie, take your time.

James: microwaves

Remus: what are you trying to say?

James: the nercury is in renegade

Remus: you poor thing, don't hurt your head!

----------------------------------------------------

Sirius: (talking about Remus) he's so cute, what should I say?

James: ask him about his name

Sirius: and what do I say? 'hey what's your name!'

James: c'mere Siri, you better go up to him and bat those luscious long lashes at him when you ask for his name, go get him tiger!

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Sirius: he's so cute, like his face is so sculpted and omg...he will be mine👹 (said in a demon voice)

Regulus: I rebuke you and everything you stand for.

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James: do you want to play dress to impress?

Lily: not right now, I'm busy.

James: oh...so you want me to kill myself?

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Remus: *reading quietly*

Regulus: what are you reading? You've been so quiet.

Remus: oh a story about..war and whatnot...

Regulus: oh cool...it's smut isn't it?

Remus: yeah. What are you reading?

Regulus: ...smut.

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James: I have aura

Pandora: you have -0 aura

James: do I gain aura if I walk around in a nightgown and cap while using a candle to light the way?

Pandora: yes, infinite aura

James: YIPPIE!

Remus: so...he's the Ebenezer Scrooge?

Pandora: shhh let me enjoy this.

[sarahowritesostucky]

Alpha, Beta (& Omega) Masterlist

Rating: Explicit

Pairing: Steve x Bucky

Tags: a/b/o, arranged marriage, domestic discipline, spanking, head of household, dom/sub elements, alpha Steve, beta Bucky, hurt/comfort, wedding night, alternate history, nobility/royalty au, Edwardian time period, m/f/m poly marriage, enemies to lovers

Summary: To save House Barnes from scandalous ruin, eldest son James must agree to a contracted marriage, accepting Lord Senator Steven Rogers as his Alpha, Husband, and Headship.

A contract of engagement. (Word count: 1066) Teen

A most untoward introduction. (Word count: 2368) Mature

A wedding eve's dinner. (Word count: 1619) Teen

A late morning wedding. (Word count: 1862) Teen

A wedding night. (Word Count 2411) Explicit

A honeymoon. (Word Count 2976) Teen

A honeymoon, cont'd. (Word Count: 3536) Mature

A consummation. (Word Count: 2817) Explicit

A fever (Word Count: 3619) Mature

A consummation, cont'd (Word count: 2928) Explicit

A school reunion (Word count 3449) Teen

A sojourn in London (Word count 2010) Teen

A public scene (Word count 3617) Teen

A Headship's rebuke (Word count 3627) Teen

A dream, a visit, a game (Word count 4823) Explicit

A tour of the continent (Word count 5652) Explicit

A homecoming (Word count 4286) Explicit

A settling In (Word count 5616) Teen

A courtship (Word count 3201) Explicit

An Inquiry (Word count 6883) Explicit

Masterlist

@openup-yourmind

[rachandruin]

I've been reminded of the whole James Somerton situation lately and the discourse that surrounded his recent fake suicide note, and how people who disbelieved it straight off the bat were pilloried for doing so, told they were uncaring and vindictive and wanted him to die

This is a man who literally had a track record of lying with every breath he took, not just about the provenance of his work but also about being "harassed" by people who were just rightly requesting he credit his sources, and of receiving "death threats" from people connected to his detractors (of which there has never been even the slightest shred of proof)

This is a man with previous for making manipulative, passive-aggressive, guilt-tripping statements regarding possibly harming himself in response to mild rebuke and minor pushback

Not believing him when he threatened suicide in response to finally being exposed for the conman he is is, in every possible way, the most logical conclusion to draw

This is such a common abuse tactic that it's almost a cliché and Somerton gave us textbook examples of it over and over again, this is not an enormous leap to make

Saying you don't believe someone who has repeatedly threatened to self-harm as an abuse tactic (and never once gone through with it) is not cruel, it's just understanding human behaviour and having pattern recognition

[theoakings]

As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. He sent messengers ahead to a Samaritan village to prepare for his arrival. But the people of the village did not welcome Jesus because he was on his way to Jerusalem. When James and John saw this, they said to Jesus, "Lord, should we call down fire from heaven to burn them up?"But Jesus turned and rebuked them. So they went on to another village. Luke 9:51-56 (NLT)

⋆ ˚｡ ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡ ⋆

James and John meant well. Their reaction reflects a very human response that some Christians have when others reject Jesus or fail to live according to His will. Their anger, offence and judgement came from their passion, love and zeal for Jesus. But, it was misguided. It didn’t reflect the heart and Spirit of Jesus. Instead of grace and patience, they condemned and sought vengeance. Jesus’ rebuke shows that that’s not how He operates. His Spirit is one of love, grace and redemption, and we as Christians are called to reflect that- even to ourselves!

Sometimes we’re like James and John to ourselves as well. When we sin or fall short, it’s easy to condemn ourselves. But Jesus’ response to the Samaritan village’s rejection shows His heart: He didn’t lash out, shame or curse them. Instead, He continued His mission of grace. He still died for them because He loved them.

Jesus doesn’t condemn- why should we? He loves you more in this moment than any one of your loved ones could love you in their entire lifetime. Remember that! 💗💫

Bye cuties!!

I have a blog if you care to check it out: https://neverthirsts.com/2025/01/27/when-you-forget-the-spirit-you-belong-to/

[obzessed]

HP characters : powerpoint presentation headcanon

This is so random but here is how I imagine marauders' era characters doing a powerpoint presentation

The Marauders

Do over the top presentations, (down to using costumes, yes) would make the wildest powerpoint (too many colors because they can’t agree on anything)

They make it really fun and entertaining tho

use the airplane (flying broom ??) transition, except the airplane is on fire for some reason

indian drama level of presentation

Will Not stop giggling and interrupting each other

Jocks in middle school vibe, but they’re actually really smart

here to clown and have a laugh

generally get a high grade but get points deducted for clarity and taking too damn long

Severus Snape (+bonus Lily Evans)

In a solo presentation, Severus would make perfect, pristine presentation

King of bullet points

University standards powerpoints

only uses peer reviewed articles

always criticizes said peer reviewed articles

Never uses notes, but doesn't look the audience in the eyes ever

Doesn't look at the audience period

He's not shy, he doesn't even do it consciously

Extremely complicated subjects, Will Not Dumb It Down For You

If anyone has a question, will look at them as if they’re the biggest idiot in the room

The type to explain by simply reformulating what he just said

If they still don’t understand either sighs dramatically and moves on, or sighs dramatically and start drawing on the board, speaking veeeryyyyy slowly, you let me know where I lost you idiot fellow classmate

Actually explains really well when he puts in some effort, has this clean cut way of decomposing each problem and detailing each point, then tying it all back together that makes it really easy to follow

writing on the board and drawing legitimately helps him lay out his thought process

the condescension is just a plus

Type of presentation that is objectively very good and interesting and well thought out but like. no one cares. bring back the airplane transitions.

For a few people sufficiently advanced and interested and who actually understand what he’s talking about, (and who are not rebuked by his style and general attitude), it’s a v good presentation

Positive : Always adds something new and generally brings really pertinent arguments, genuinely passionate about what he’s talking about

Teachers pick up on his fast out of the box thinking and surprising creativity

his powerpoint design is a little depresso, no colors except to highlight important words

very minimalist and to the point

Regulus argues every point of his presentation

Academic rivals to lovers frfr

Gets point deducted for his attitude and his “lack of enthusiasm”

NOW Severus + Lily = best of both worlds, get an O everytime

Lily always insists on using canva (their pwp designs are so cute)

overall they balance each other really well

I feel like Lily would get a little giggly if she fumbles

The marauders would def shout “boring” and giggle like middleschoolers at the back of the class during Snape's presentation

Snape's ability to remain unfazed in the face of bs stems from there

God help them all if they get paired up for a presentation

Marauders + Severus

Snape would have to settle for at least one airplane transition

It would become a war of adding and deleting each other's progress on the pwp design

they split it in two but they try to gain terrain on the other's part like in Clash of Clan

They are at WAR

“I am a commander in battle and your slides are but a village on a map” James Potter

“Fuck you” Severus Snape

“Go jump off an airplane if you like them so much”

Somehow the presentation is even more chaotic than the previous one

passive aggressively asks the other to click on the next slide

always takes the other's question just as they're about to speak

If Snape sees a single one of them look at their notes for too long it's on sight (RIP Pettigrew)

Bc Fuck if he's gonna lose points over this

best or worst grade

lots of brain cells

Teacher tried to make the braincells hold hands but the brain cells are Enemies

[siancore]

SamBucky | M | 2.1K | AO3

A/N: Written for the @sambuckylibrary SamBucky Summer Bingo 2024 Loving Card. Square Fill: Free Space.

Just my take on why we suddenly saw Bucky wearing the bright blue Henley when he visited Sam in Louisiana.

Content: Getting Together; Flirting; Crushes; Canon Universe

One of the best things about the 21st century was online shopping. Bucky loved it. He could get what he needed delivered to his door and not have to worry about venturing out into the crowds and being noticed.

Shopping for clothing had been a breeze online. He could just go back and order the same outfits that were in his order history, and he was set; good to go. Plain ensembles that were good all year round. His leather jacket was the most expensive piece of attire he owned. It was reliable. Comfortable. It was his signature look. Didn’t need much else.

Though, in saying that, he supposed he might get a couple of new outfits, since he was going to drop the new outfit off to Sam in Louisiana. Didn’t want to give Sam the opportunity to point out that Bucky hadn’t changed his outfits, yet he wanted Sam to embrace his gift. Sam could be quite contrary at times. Bucky wanted the gift giving to go as smoothly as possible. 

He had a plan, after all: Hand the new Captain America suit over, spend some time with Sam where they’re not dodging bullets, and maybe turn on that 1940s charm that he was so famous for. If nothing eventuated from it, then he was just glad to have Sam as a co-worker and friend. 

Bucky sat at his laptop and looked through the garments on this website he liked. He added a few new items to his cart, removed them, then added them once more. While he was arguing with himself about how he used to wear button down shirts his whole life, a notification box popped up in the corner of his screen denoting an incoming call. Bucky sighed and then answered.

“Ayo?”

“Guess again,” came the voice on the other end. 

“Aneka, what’re you doing?”

“Hello to you, too,” she replied. 

“Sorry,” Bucky amended. “Hello. How are you?”

“I’m well, thank you James.”

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” he asked. “Does your girlfriend know you’re using her personal secure line to bother me?”

There was a sound of jest to his voice that made Aneka smile. 

“Of course,” she replied. “There are no secrets between my beloved and I. As for you and your beloved –” 

“I don’t have a beloved,” Bucky insisted, knowing exactly where the conversation was headed. 

“Oh, I think that very lovely gift you had my beloved organize for you begs to differ.”

Bucky rans his face over his hand and said, “Ayo told you about the suit?”

“She didn’t have to,” Aneka replied. “I was in the Design Suites testing my prototype for these new blades I’m hoping to incorporate in the field when I saw your gift.”

“General Okoye isn’t gonna let you take anything but your spear into the field and you know that,” Bucky supplied.

“Hush your mouth,” said Aneka. “Anyway, like I was saying, I saw your gift while I was there. Very thoughtful, James. Captain Wilson is going to love it.”

“How do you know it’s for Sam?”

“Firstly, he is your beloved.”

“Aneka.”

“Secondly, that awful, awful color scheme has to be for an Avenger – has to be for Captain America.”

“Is it really that awful?”

“Yes,” said Aneka with a laugh as Bucky groaned. “But, it’s the thought that counts. What did he say when he received it?”

“I haven’t delivered it to him yet.”

“Oh, that is good, James. Good thinking. Hand deliver the gift to Captain Wilson, get him to try it on and do a little twirl for you, and then charm him. Right out of those red, white, and blue pants.”

“Aneka.”

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“James, what is it?”

Bucky took a deep breath and then said, “I kinda want this to go well. Sam deserves nothing but the best, and while I’m so far from bein’ good enough for him –”

“I rebuke that in Bast’s glorious name,” Aneka supplied, affronted. “You are good enough. Captain Wilson would be lucky to have you.”

Bucky said nothing for a moment but smiled at his friend’s words. Then he spoke up, nervous but honest.

“So, are you gonna help me?”

“Of course,” said Aneka. “Now, what are you going to wear?”

…..

“The blue really brings your eyes out,” Aneka had said to Bucky, and he listened. 

He kept the blue Henley packed away in his bag. Decided against wearing it when he arrived to deliver his gift to Sam. Though it was not in Sam to be rude or an outright asshole, there was the small possibility that Sam would tell him to fuck off and take the goddamn Captain America suit with him. Bucky was really going out on a limb, just as he had been asking Ayo for help after what he had done. But love, it seemed, made you do crazy things. 

Love? Right, yes. Love. For a co-worker slash friend. They were friends and Bucky could admit he cared for – hell, that he loved Sam Wilson. Who didn’t, right? At any rate, it was all going well. He showed up and showed his willingness to help. Showed Sam that he cared about what Sam did and his life outside of the Avengers – outside of being Captain America. Sam had accepted the gift, while he did not open it, he knew what it was. Let it sit on the docks while they worked on the boat. Kept a curious gaze flitting towards it every once in a while. 

When Bucky had mentioned getting a hotel for the night, Sam had reassured him that he could stay in Delacroix. Assured him that the people there were welcoming and friendly. Assured him that they did not care if he wore his shirts too small. 

Ha. Sam noticed what Bucky was wearing. Aneka was a genius. Bucky was glad he had saved the blue Henley for later. 

…

There was something ethereal about working away in the early morning with Sam on the boat. The sounds of the water and wildlife; the calm morning sky; Sam humming some unfamiliar song while he worked. Bucky could get used to that. He could easily and happily settle into that life in that place. It was no wonder that Sam worked and fought so hard. The place and people in his life were special. Bucky could see that. Bucky longed to have something like that for himself. 

After Sarah had relieved them of their duties, Sam took Bucky around. It was a very small town. There was not a lot to see from a tourist’s perspective, yet Bucky didn’t feel like a tourist, like a visitor. Maybe it was Sam that made him feel like he belonged. Maybe wherever he was in the world would always feel that way if he was by Sam’s side. 

They found their way back to the Wilson residence. Bucky helped Sam set up a training area outside. They tossed the shield around and talked. There was so much that Bucky wanted to say to Sam. So much he��needed to say. But he listened. He listened to Sam when he spoke about how the history of the shield was complicated, especially for Sam as a Black man in America. How what had happened to Isaiah Bradley was abhorrent. How there were people, Sam’s own people included, who would be against him carrying the shield and taking up the mantle. Bucky listened, really listened. He listened until Sam had said everything he needed to say. 

“I owe you an apology,” Bucky said then. “There was no way Steve, or I could’ve even imagined what it would be like for you. Thing is, we didn’t even consider it. He said you were a good man. He said you’re the only person he could see taking up the shield. And I believed him because I trusted his word before I got to know you. And he was right. You are a good man. The best man for the job. But I got caught up in my own feelings of – of loneliness and I projected a whole lotta stuff onto you when I had no right to do that. I learned how to live in this day and age, I could’ve taken a little time to learn about how the world treats you and your people. I am so deeply sorry, Sam. Sorry for making all of this harder on you than you needed. Sorry for dismissing your feelings. Sorry for barging into your life because I was angry and upset and spiralling in my own way. None of that was fair on you. I’m so sorry.”

Sam looked at Bucky through those pretty lashes and gave him a small, soft smile. 

“Thank you,” said Sam quietly. “I appreciate that.”

The sincerity and peace in Sam’s eyes caused something to clench inside of Bucky’s chest. There was vulnerability there that Sam hardly let the world see. They spoke for a while longer while continuing to toss the shield around. Sam seemed lighter and it looked so good on him. Happiness looked good on him. He was soft and jovial and even a little flirty. It made Bucky feel like he was floating. 

When there was a lull in their conversation, Sam took a moment to drag his gaze over Bucky’s form.

“What?” asked Bucky, with half a smile playing on his features. 

Sam placed his hands on his hips, tilted his head, and gave Bucky an appraising look. 

“So, this is new, uh?” asked Sam.

“What’s that?” asked Bucky, feeling warm under Sam’s stare. 

“This color on you,” Sam explained. “Gotten so used to seeing you in black. It’s a nice change.”

Bucky could feel the blush spread across his face as he said, “Thanks.”

“That blue, it ah – it really brings your eyes out,” Sam offered, somewhat coyly, which was new. “It’s nice. You look – nice.”

Bucky didn’t know what to say. He was almost stunned to have all of Sam’s attention levelled at him like that. To have Sam being shy with him. To have Sam compliment him. 

“Well, you always look nice,” he ended up blurting out. “Doesn’t matter what you wear. You always look great. So handsome. Christ, pretty, even. You’re just – gorgeous. Shit. Sorry.”

Sam let out an amused little laugh as he dipped his head and looked up at Bucky. 

“I think you’ve apologized enough for one day,” said Sam, stepping closer. “For the record, I think you’re pretty, too.”

“Really?” asked Bucky, a blush completely covering his face and neck. “You think I am pretty?”

“Yes,” said Sam, inching closer. 

“It’s just the new shirt,” said Bucky, trying to regain his composure and going for flirty; he moved closer to Sam. “Trick of the light and all this blue.”

Sam laughed once more, “I don’t know about all that. Maybe we should get you out of that shirt and test that theory?”

Bucky almost choked on air right then and there, but recovered quickly as he said, “Really?”

Sam took hold of Bucky’s hand, and said, “Yeah, if that’s somethin’ you’d want to do – with me.”

A hint of that coyness on Sam’s part came back and Bucky found it wholly charming and endearing, 

Bucky brought Sam’s hand to his chest and said, “Happy to oblige you, Cap. Whatever you want or need, just let me know.”

“How about a kiss?” asked Sam. 

“With pleasure,” Bucky replied as he cupped Sam’s face and then pressed a passionate kiss to his lips. 

…

Later in the evening, after the pair had made love for the third or fourth time – Bucky couldn’t keep count as he was delirious with happiness – Sam needed to leave the bedroom and get something to drink. He searched their discarded clothing looking for something to put on and found Bucky’s blue Henley. Bucky reclined on the too-small bed and watched Sam pull his shirt on. Something swelled inside of Bucky as he smiled up at Sam clad in his shirt. 

“That color looks good on you,” said Bucky as he dragged his gaze over Sam’s body for the hundredth time that night. 

Sam beamed brightly at him, smoothed his hand over his chest, and said, “Yeah, I might keep it.”

“It’s yours if you want it,” said Bucky sincerely, a lazy, contented smile crossing his lips. 

“Hmm,” said Sam as he climbed back onto the bed to kiss Bucky once more. “Might keep you, too.”

Bucky kissed Sam back fervently and said, “I’m yours if you want me.”

“I do,” said Sam as Bucky’s hands moved to rid him of the blue Henley. “And I’m yours, too.”

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Jesus Rebukes Satan

Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. — Matthew 4:10 | King James Version (KJV) The King James Version Bible is in the public domain. Cross References: Exodus 23:25; Deuteronomy 6:13; Deuteronomy 10:20; 1 Samuel 7:3; Isaiah 30:22; Mark 1:13; Luke 4:8

[letstrythisout4]

Thinking about Fleamont adopting…basically any and every child in need of guidance.

Very “We may not know each other but if you ever need help, I’m here.” energy.

Like people always talk about Euphemia being everyone's mother and I agree 100% but Monty??

Don’t play with him.

They’re in Diagon Alley and a sales associate is being really just underhanded while talking to Remus and all of a sudden Remus just feels two massive heavy hands on his shoulders and Monty just starts tearing into worker, making incredibly specific but accurate reads into who they are as a person until they look like they’re going to cry. Once he feels satisfied he just steers Remus away, bringing him back to the others, not even bringing up the interaction that they just had.

They’re all at Slughorn's party and some high member of a subsect of the ministry makes a comment about how impressive it is that Mary and Lily are so talented given their “backgrounds” and Fleamont is just like, “What do you mean by that?” The person sputters some incomprehensible nonsense before excusing themselves hurriedly. The second they’re gone Fleamont turns to the girls telling them that if the situation is safe to do so that they should never let people speak to them in such a manner, “When that happens and no one says anything, they grow comfortable. Never let them be comfortable.” Even though he speaks softly as to not be overheard by god knows who, his tone carries enough weight for the message to stick with the girls for the rest of their lives. 

James would come and complain how his friends are being treated; how Sirius is crushed under expectations, how Remus (despite being the most competent person his knows) may never get a job, how Lily and Mary are always spoken down to, how Marlene and Dorcas get treated like shit by half the school since going public and how everything just isn’t right. 

And Fleamont would listen, he would listen as his son goes on and on about the injustices of the world and how he can’t understand, why and how? Fleamont feels a little crushed as he hears his son's voice crack as he asks his father for answers that Fleamont knows he can’t give. He and Euphemia tried their best to raise their son to be aware of the issues of the world. And he was aware, he just didn’t know. There are some things that one just has to witness to truly comprehend.

And so Fleamont is honest. “Why? Well, wizarding kind has built itself off of expectations, rules, standards that are meant to uplift our kind and keep us safe. And so that is, what many believe, to be the root of the issues you present. Sirius has so many, too many, expectations placed on him because his family fears the unknown of abandoning the expectations, rules and standards that their ancestors placed however many years ago. Wizards decided centuries ago that werewolves were dangerous and have kept that standard. They also set the standard that old magic, family magic, is superior therefore muggleborns get treated as if they are inferior. The entire standard of old magic comes from the idea of magic being passed down parent to child parent to child through “natural” births and so Marlene and Dorcas may never be treated in a far manner, for where you and I see a happy healthy couple, others see opportunities for magical improvement through magical marriages -and children- ending.”

Cue James adamantly stating how everything his father said is bullshit with no backing. Fleamont calms James down enough to explain to that as high society pureblood men, they have an obligation to those around them to speak up in places that those with less standing aren’t able to. 

Fleamont is an absolute menace in Wizengamot. The Potter family is a gray family, but when it comes to social matters, that man is on the dark family's necks. 

A dark family will propose a new law and give a long winded speech -that is just fear mongering at its finest- only for Monty to speak up at the end to swiftly rebuke every single point that they brought up. 

Why? Because he refuses to allow people to turn the world that his son and his children-in-arms live in into a world of fear. 

[strawberrybasilsorbet]

Jilytober Day 8

I finally managed to write and post something before midnight! :) Here's my take on today's @jilytoberfest prompt: October 8th: “Maybe we can find out what the hell your problem is over dinner sometime”

"So, this bloke is essentially an Auror?"

"He's a private eye, Potter. A detective. Haven't you been listening?"

On the tall screen above them, an actor with a chiseled jawline stared moodily out of a window, smoking a cigarette in his cramped office. Lily, sitting cross-legged on the driver's side of her father's car, did the same.

James Potter, lounging on the passenger side with his feet up on the dashboard, stuck stubbornly to his argument. "The Aurors have detectives! Detecting is probably half of what the Aurors do." He talked with his hands as he spoke, gesticulating in mock debate. "You can't catch a dark wizard if you don't know where he is, Evans."

"The emphasis," Lily rebutted, laughing, "should be on private." Above them, the brooding actor was interrupted by the arrival in his office of a sultry dame. "So, imagine if one of those detective Aurors put out a shingle on Knockturn Alley and started Auroring for hire. Try the popcorn."

"That sounds illegal." James thought about it for another moment. "And fun."

"The popcorn, Potter!" Lily grabbed a handful and shoveled it into her mouth. "You have to," she rebuked, the words distorted by her mouthful of snack. "It's part of the experience."

The experience, of course, was what they were here for.

Over the last school year, she and James had somehow become friends. Maybe even close friends.

So when James had mentioned to her a few weeks back that he was behind on the summer homework for his N.E.W.T. course in Muggle Studies, of course Lily had volunteered to help him catch up. Any friend would do that. And if she'd happened to notice that Noir Night at the Cokeworth Drive-In would make a great topic for his film history assignment, well, that was just being a creative student.

And if she'd never been on a date to the Cokeworth Drive-In before? If she'd once speculated about the very place with her fellow primary schoolgirls, admiring all of the teenagers with their cars and boyfriends?

Well. James didn't need to know that.

On the screen, a confrontation was drawing to a close. The detective gave the irate femme fatale a careless smirk. "Maybe," he said, leaning close, "we can find out what the hell your problem is over dinner sometime."

The woman slapped him.

James raised his eyebrows. "Very smooth, mate."

Lily laughed. Feeling suddenly bold, she put out her cigarette and slid across the bench seat of the car toward him. James, the incorrigible flirt, wrapped an arm around her shoulders in response. "All right, Evans?"

"All right," she agreed. "Taking notes, James?"

He turned his head in surprise at the familiar appellation, and all at once, their faces were inches apart. Lily knocked her forehead playfully against his. James took a shaky breath, then leaned in, closing his eyes.

Lily shoved a handful of popcorn into his open mouth.

James choked and pulled back, eyes widening in surprise. Lily winked. "Very smooth, Potter."

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Jack Jenkins at RNS:

(RNS) — A diverse group of Christians is throwing support behind Vice President Kamala Harris’ White House bid, organizing fundraisers and Zoom calls in hopes of helping catapult the Democrat to victory in November — and, they say, reclaiming their faith from Republicans in the process. Their efforts come on the heels of similar campaigns aimed at specific constituency groups, such as the recent “White Dudes for Harris” Zoom call that featured celebrities and grabbed headlines. John Pavlovitz, a liberal-leaning Christian author and activist, was on that call when he hatched the idea for a Christian-centric version and texted his friend Malynda Hale, a singer, actress and fellow activist. “We had a conversation about how, specifically on the Democratic side of the political spectrum, you don’t hear a lot of people talking about their faith,” Hale told Religion News Service in an interview. “We wanted people to know that there are progressive Christians, there are Christians on the Democratic, left-leaning side, so that they didn’t feel alone.”

The result was Christians for Kamala, a part-fundraiser, part-virtual roundtable livestreamed event on Monday (Aug. 12). Featured speakers cited their faith as they praised liberal policies and personally endorsed Harris — who recently entered the presidential race after President Joe Biden bowed out — and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Over the course of the nearly three-hour event, the group raised more than $150,000 for the Harris campaign, a number that has climbed to just shy of $200,000 in the days since. “It’s been really difficult to keep up with the flood of comments and connections that have been coming in,” said Pavlovitz, who said the only formal help he received from the Harris campaign was in setting up a donation system for fundraising. A number of Christian groups — including evangelicals, a constituency key to former President Donald Trump’s base — have assembled similar calls in the lead up to next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Most have had little to no assistance from the official Harris-Walz campaign, which, barely a month old, has yet to announced a dedicated faith outreach director. The emerging grassroots coalition vies not only to bolster Harris but also to push back on what organizers say is a false assumption that to be Christian is to be a Republican — or a supporter of former President Donald Trump.

[...] That diversity was on display during the Christians for Kamala call, which included a mix of faith leaders such as the Rev. Jacqui Lewis, of Middle Collegiate Church in New York City, and the Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., head of the nonprofit Hip Hop Caucus; activists like environmentalist Bill McKibben and LGBTQ+ rights advocate Charlotte Clymer; commentators such as CNN’s Van Jones; and politicians, including New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Texas State Rep. James Talarico. The speakers linked their support for specific policies, such as working to blunt the impacts of climate change or passing immigration reform, to their faith and Christian Scripture. Some rebuked conservative Christianity’s ties to the GOP, calling it a form of Christian nationalism. “My faith in Jesus leads me to reject Christian nationalism and commit myself to the project of a multiracial, multicultural democracy where we can all freely love God and fully love our neighbors,” said Talarico, a Presbyterian Church (USA) seminarian who has been vocal in his condemnation of Christian nationalism in his state. “That same faith leads me to support Vice President Harris to be the next president of the United States.”

Although a member of a mainline denomination, Talarico was also a speaker on a separate “Evangelicals for Harris” Zoom call assembled on Wednesday evening. Organized by Faith Voters, a 501(c)4 organization, the effort was geared toward conservative Christians who have disproportionately sided with Trump. The call struck a different tone than Christians for Kamala: some speakers noted they had never endorsed a candidate before, and at least one pastor suggested he was risking friendships and relationships with his congregation by participating.

[...] The calls add to a slate of organizing efforts launched in recent days aimed at specific religious groups. Nearly 500 faith leaders have signed on to a letter endorsing Harris, a “Latter-day Saints for Harris” call was convened last week and multiple separate calls have been organized for Jewish Americans — including one on Thursday that targeted Jewish women and featured singer Barbra Streisand. A separate “Catholics for Kamala” call, facilitated in part by the Harris campaign, was also slated for this week but organizers rescheduled it until after the Democratic National Convention, citing scheduling conflicts. According to Pavlovitz, his group is already partnering with others, such as Catholics for Kamala, Christian Democrats of America and Vote Common Good. What form their collaborations take remains to be seen, but Pavlovitz said he is hopeful for whatever comes next.

Christians fed up with the religious right’s monopolization of what it means to be a Christian rallied to support Kamala Harris on multiple recent calls, such as Christians For Harris and Evangelicals For Harris. Christians need to vote for the REAL Christian in the race, and that’s Harris (and not antichrist Trump). #HarrisWalz2024