#The Majesty and Glory Performers

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

The City of David Medley The Majesty and Glory Performers | Runtime: 4mins 14secs

[conundrumoftime]

'this monstrous St Michael'

I doubt the TROP writers and showrunners meant anything in particular by setting Halbrand up as St Michael the Archangel in this shot beyond "looks cool :)", but bear with me okay because I was talking to @wyrd-syster about Les Miserables recently and it reminded me of something.

So first of all the St Michael comparison is because St Michael is very commonly portrayed in art as a figure in armour, standing over a conquered Satan in the form of a dragon or serpent, holding a long lance. e.g. this is Raphael's Saint Michael Vanquishing Satan (1516):

TROP Sauron is really not St Michael (the closest in Tolkien would be Manwë or Eönwë I suppose; the Ainur don't really correlate directly to angels). But at this point he thinks he is, or at least thinks he should be.

Which is what brings me back to Les Miserables. Here's Javert:

Javert was at that moment in seventh heaven. Without being fully aware of it, yet with a confused intuition of his own indispensible status and of his success, he personified—he, Javert—justice, enlightenment, and truth in their heavenly function of crushing evil. He had behind him and around him, at infinite depth, authority, reason, precedent, the conscience of the law, the vengeance of the law, all the stars in the firmament; he protected order, he called forth the thunder of the law, he avenged society, he came to the aid of the absolute; he stood erect in a blaze of glory; there was in his victory a trace of defiance and of combat; standing tall, arrogant, resplendent, he displayed, out in the open, for all the world to see, the superhuman bestiality of a bloodthirsty archangel, the fearful shadow of the act he was performing made visible in his clenched fist with the dull flashing of the social sword; happy and outraged, he held crime, vice, revolt, perdition, hell, pinned beneath his heel; he shone, he exterminated, he smiled … and there was an incontestable grandeur in this monstrous Saint Michael. Javert, though horrifying, had nothing of the ignoble about him. Probity, sincerity, candor, conviction, a sense of duty, are things that, when they go wrong, can become hideous, but that, even hideous, remain grand; their majesty, peculiar to the human conscience, persists even in horror.

Overall I think Galadriel is more of a Javert figure in s1 of TROP than Sauron is; she's the one whose fixation on justice has become something so all-consuming it leaves no room for weakness or redemption. (Whether Sauron is in any sense repentant is a whole other question, but her answer to even the suggestion of it is isn't "you're lying" but to tell him it wouldn't matter anyway: "no penance could ever erase the evil you have done.") But this particular Javert moment is very much Sauron.

From Morgoth's Ring:

And Letters:

One of the things I don't like about the time compression in TROP is that it speeds up this gradual 'relapse' so much that it's hard to trace it as the development of the character, vs. a brief dalliance with the idea of Doing Good followed by a "fine then" tantrum, but! TROP Sauron is still very much informed by what Tolkien said about 2nd Age Sauron and his motives and I do love it for that.

and: I especially love, when Tolkien talks about Sauron's corruption by Morgoth, the idea that this was part of the corruption; that it wasn't just Morgoth running Evil Bootcamp, but that Morgoth flattered him and praised him and fed into his pride so much so that anything 'good' he believed he was doing was misdirected from the start, because Mairon the Admirable couldn't conceive of any good outcome or plans that didn't feature him as the most special perfect talented brilliant centre of everything.

[pressforwardsaints]

"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."

— President Russell M. Nelson, Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives

[dailyadventureprompts]

Rival: Eseris, Dancer of the Edge

Can you folks hurry up and surrender already? I’ve got a hot date with a smuggler captain and the bastard son of a supernova and that bounty on your heads is going to pay for one hell of a night out.

It’s tough being one of wildspace’s most prestigious bountyhunters: the action, the glory, the riches, the hot alien babes hanging off every word of your latest adventure... but the Eseris persists none the less. Born of a union of between an inspiration seeking painter and the majesty of the cosmos itself, this aasimar duellist now skates about the stars on a torrent of her own light, hunting down outlaws mostly for the thrill of it.

Hooks:

Our heroes first encounter Eseris as part of a random encounter, when their transport is ambushed by a bit of space-faring wildlife that’s decided to take territorial exception to their vessel. While the party is fighting for their life, Eseris spends most of the fight showboating and performing for the other passengers, stepping in to strike the killing blow or if the party REALLY needs help.

Some time later, after the party has earned the ire of some galactic warlord or planetary government, Eseris comes hunting for their bounty. Taking advantage of her ability to fly and the party’s ignorance around strange planear geography, the bountyhunter will attempt to separate them, incapacitating them in ones or twos before finding one last opponent to engage in a duel. While the coin helps speed her along towards finding her opponents, it’s the challenge that serves as Eseris’s primary motivation... and the party might be able to avoid being captured by persuading her that it would be more fun to overthrow whoever it was that put the bounty on them in the first place.

Though a talented swashbuckler in her own right, Eseris’s skills are only bolstered by the aid of a blade that can dance through the air and be controlled like one of her own limbs. Forged from an alloy of starmetal and her own living light, this sword leaves quickly fading after-images with each swing, each of which is just as solid as the original. Should the party be able to get on the bountyhunter’s goodside ( which involves buying her some drinks and making an absolute idiot of themselves), she’ll point them in the direction of where she got it.. a strange celestial operating a forge on a lonely little moon out in the vast night.

[superm4ks]

I don't really know how people analyse/read testing times so like whyy does everyone think rb will be the fastest? I mean I can understand that they were dominating last year and that that lead doesn't just completely dissappear over winter break, but at the same time they've changed the concept a lot and maybe the new concept is a flop?? Just looking at testing times and long-runs the ferrari looks just as good as the rb (to me lol as I said idk)

Aight honey I gotcha here’s what to actually look for in testing and what NOT to look for

Pay attention to:

Consistency - drivers will run what they call ‘programs’ set to see if the data they’ve spent all winter working over in their lil computers actually correlates to the finished product on track. It’s important that it does lmfao. When the wind tunnel and the tarmac give u similar ((controlled)) lap times in !!similar environments!! then u know you’ve got a good base to work on for the remaining of the season. So look for consistency in ur drivers laps. Look for race sims on c1 c2,c3 ((hard and medium compounds)) wid obvious delta references and see if they were actually able to deliver consistent times across the board.

Tires used by teams - personally always find it interesting and telling when teams will focus a lot more on softer compounds and harder compounds instead of miss ole reliable her majesty the long run queen - C3. C3 is a medium compound baddie thats the most likely to give u a broader picture of how the car actually handles at a race speed. A few nailed laps on c4 and c5 ((softer compounds)) DO look sexy and strong on top of the table, but for testing they’re kinda like stretching a muscle u won’t even get to use all that much. But if ur fav gets on top the table, no harm done right 😭

Laps completed - Nando Alonso said it best, 3 days of testing is fucking bonkers . And it is. Imagine not only u gotta learn everything about one of the most intricate and sensitive and complex pieces of machinery on the planet but u gotta also use whatever data u find to extract some type of competitive, podium scorer, race winning performance . All this against 10 other mfs ((yes even haas)) who are trying to do the same. So , how do u get an edge here? Simply put, u run your car from the moment it’s green until it becomes like against the law to have the fucker out there. More laps = more sim data = more data overall = better quality corrections between sim and on track behavior = more knowledge of how car responds to different programs = where to improve and gain performance

Immediate statements from drivers on how the car is behaving *relative* to last year - drivers are pr trained to death but they’re not robots. One of the most important aspects of an f1 car is its drivability. If a driver tells you it’s better or it’s worse /or they’re having less or more fun, believe that . That is important

Do not give a fuck about:

Testing classifications - or, to put it bluntly, it doesn’t matter who tops the charts in testing. The term ‘glory runs’ // ‘sandbagging’ comes to mind, and while teams theoretically shud not b wasting precious testing time wid that nonsense bro sometimes those mfs can’t help themselves . And it’s all utterly meaningless until fp1 in Bahrain . Lemme tell u why. There’s simply too much we don’t know about how teams are moving atp. What engine modes they’re on, fuel loads, delta targets, programs. Apples to oranges. Except apples is a fresh lap on c4s and oranges is like 15 on used c3. Cud mean something, cud mean nothing. Don’t focus too much on it.

Hope this helps love u mwah

[queenmarytudor]

Mary I's Fight For The Throne

18th August - Mary makes her first Royal proclamation

Following Mary's jubilant entry into London, fights instantly break out between the mixed population of Catholics and Protestants. A priest who performs Mass has his chalice and vestments stolen, and "two or three hundred people assembled and made such riot that the mayor had been obliged to go in person to quell the tumult." 1 while on the 15th a "defamatory leaflet was scattered about the streets of the town:

"Noblemen and gentlemen favouring the word of God, take counsel together and join with all your power and your following! Withdraw yourselves from our virtuous Lady, Queen Mary, because Rochester, Walgrave, Inglefield, Weston and Hastings, hardened and detestable papists all, follow the opinions of the said Queen. Fear not, and God will prosper and help our holy design and intent; be assured that they have no great strength now, except two archpapists, Derby and Stourton; Arundel might be mentioned as the third, with the renegades (Sir Edmund) Peckham and (Sir William) Drury, chamberlain, who have no great power. As to the other personages in the country, of whatever condition they may be, they will assuredly prove tractable and conform to our belief, as we have seen by experience during the last seven years. But Winchester, the great devil, must be exorcised and exterminated with his disciples named above, before he can poison the people and wax strong in his religion. Draw near to the Gospels, and your guardian shall be the crown of glory!" 2

Hearing of this, and after already giving the Mayor and alderman of London "a writing to act and provide accordingly, and let it be known in the proper quarter, without making any solemn proclamation", Mary decides she must make an official statement. 3

On the 18th of August Mary makes her first royal proclamation regarding religion:

Her Grace, considering the great troubles and dangers that were brought forth in the past by the diversity of opinions and questioning about religion within the kingdom, and having learnt moreover that since her accession to the throne contentions have sprung up afresh owing to certain rumours and false reports circulated by wicked persons disposed to evil doing, has determined to make her resolve known to her faithful subjects, as follows:

First, her Majesty, being now in possession of her Imperial crown and estate pertaining to it, cannot forsake that faith that the whole world knows her to have followed and practised since her birth; she desires rather, by God's grace, to preserve it until the day of her death; and she desires greatly that her subjects may come to embrace the same faith quietly and with charity, whereby she shall receive great happiness. She makes known to her beloved subjects that out of her goodness and clemency she does not desire to compel anyone to do so for the present, or until by common consent a new determination shall be come to; but she forbids all and sundry of her loving subjects, of every age and condition, under the penalty of the law to stir up tumult or sedition among her people, on the pretext of upholding certain laws of the kingdom made according to the fantasies of men; but rather commands them to live quietly until fresh ordinances be made, because her Majesty desires, and strictly orders and commands, that all shall live in peace and Christian charity. Words of recent introduction, bandied as insults, such as “papist,” “heretic” and so forth, shall be dropped; and all men, by possessing their souls in the fear of God, and by a rightous life and holy deeds, shall truly show their desire to glorify God and His Word, as they profess in their reasonings and disputations to desire it. By these practices, and by honouring God, men shall live without fear and the tranquillity of the kingdom shall be maintained, whence her Grace shall derive great joy and contentment. But if any were to presume to hold conventicles in public or in private, and sow dissension among the people, her Majesty makes it known that she would do her duty in reforming their ways and punishing those who should be guilty of going against her laws.

Moreover, as we see that false rumours and reports are nourished and maintained by certain evilly-disposed persons who take upon themselves, without sufficient authority, to preach and interpret the word of God according to their own mind, in churches and elsewhere, publicly and privately, and by representations, by false printed books of recent composition, in rhymes, ballads and other foolish and unreasonable ways attack the ministers of God and the articles of the Christian religion which they have recently brought into controversy, which books, rhymes and treatises are given out by the printers and booksellers with evil zeal to sell them and make their profit, or rather with greed of unjust gain; her Majesty commands and strictly charges every one of her subjects, of whatever age and condition, that no one shall henceforth, under pretext of sermons or lessons, either in church, publicly or privately, interpret the Scriptures, or teach anything pertaining to religion, except it be in the schools of the university. Neither shall they print any book, treatise, dialogue, rhyme, ballad, comedy or argument except by special, written command of her Majesty, under pain of her displeasure.

Her Majesty strictly commands all and sundry that no one among her subjects shall presume by his own act to punish or rise against those who may go against the law, or against any who may have taken part by word or deed in the past rebellion made by the Duke of Northumberland and his accomplices; neither shall they take their goods nor offend them in their persons by violence or imprisonment or similar acts; but they shall refer them to her Majesty or her officers, so that they may be punished according to the law. Her Majesty does not wish to discourage any man from denouncing or giving information concerning those who may be guilty of the above-named offences against her own person or the members of her Privy Council, so that they may be punished as the law ordains.

Her Majesty enjoins upon all her subjects the observance of the said commands, and decrees that they shall everywhere bend to her will without reserve, and thus avoid her displeasure and the rigour of her wrath, giving her no cause for sorrow; being determined to leave no deed unpunished that may be committed rebelliously against the law, so that there may follow no troubles or disorders, but the laws be carried out to the letter.

Her Majesty hopes that her loving subjects will conduct themselves befittingly; and, in fine, she commands and strictly enjoins upon her mayors, sheriffs, justices, bailiffs, constables and other officers and public administrators to use all diligence in the observance and execution of her will and commands, and to see to it that they who shall wilfully break them be sent to the nearest public prison and kept there until notice be given to her Majesty or her Privy Council of their names and the fault imputed to them, together with their replies on examination; after which they shall receive their punishment according to the law, as an example to the rest. 4

On the same day, at Westminster Hall, John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland is found guilty of treason. After being released following Mary's entry into London, the "Duke of Norfolk, sitting under the cloth of estate, gave judgement". 5

The execution is planned for the 21st, however it is delayed a day once Northumberland recants Protestantism. He "received the holy sacrament, heard mass devoutly and performed all the customary acts of devotion according to the ancient religion, declaring loudly before those who were in the Tower that since he had forsaken God and the Church to follow the new religion he had done no good, and his actions had been unfortunate. He confessed publicly that he had continued in error for three or four years, and went so far as to approve the authority of the Roman Church, using words that avowed the said authority, as we have been told. He did not merely declare what is said above in the Tower, but repeated the same words on the scaffold, loudly, before the people. He recommended them to obey the Queen, whom he called good and virtuous, saying that she had attained the throne miraculously, by reason of her true right by inheritance, and that therein he acknowledged the hand of God." 6

On the 22nd of August "the Duke of Northumberland and Sir John Gates, late Captain of the Guard, and Sir Thomas Palmer, knights, were all three beheaded on the Tower hill, between 8 and 9 of the clock in the forenoon, and after their bodies and heads were carried into the Tower again." 7

Sources:

1. Spanish State Papers, 16th August 1553

2. Spanish State Papers, 16th August 1553

3. Spanish State Papers, 16th August 1553

4. Spanish State Papers, 16th August 1553

5. Wriothesley's Chronicle

6. Spanish State Papers, 27th August 1553

7. Wriothesley's Chronicle

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

Transmission begins:

> message loading...

> loading... > message loaded

> decrypt? [Y/N]

> Y

> displaying message:

Origin: Canopus IV

Destination: Terra / Islington

Subject: Deployment of Magistracy Armed Forces for Operation TOUCHDOWN

Message: ALCON, 1st Canopian Cuirassiers have arrived at Islington. Available for tasking at discretion of Local Force Commander. Glory to the Magistracy.

Commanding Officer: Colonel Inanna Allard-Liao (see attached personnel file)

TO&E: 1x BattleMech battalion - 36x BattleMechs [8x Assault, 24x Heavy, 4x Light] (1 CANOPIAN CUIR.) 1x AeroSpace group - 18x aerospace fighters (1 CANOPIAN AIR GUARD) 1x Armor battalion - 72x armored fighting vehicles (1 CANOPIAN ARM. GUARD) 1x Infantry battalion - 448x infantry (1 CANOPIAN INF. GUARD)

> message ends

> open attachment 1? [Y/N]

> Y

> opening attachment:

// MAGISTRACY ARMED FORCES \\

--This information is not for public distribution.--

INANNA ALLARD-LIAO

Rank: Colonel, Commanding Officer 1st Canopian Cuirassiers

Assigned Unit: Command Lance

Personal 'Mech: Yaguara 'Inanna' YGR-2D-IAL

Date of Birth: 3103-04-28

Parents: Melissa Allard-Liao & Fredrik Allard-Liao [Né Richardson]

Age: 50

Listed Gender: F

Physiological Details: Full genetic modification treatment [extreme; "Animalia conversion", subtype: snow leopard] - performed @ Ceres Station - Terran System - 3119-04-28

Height: 190cm

Weight: 97kg

Eye Color: Grey

Languages Known: English (First Language),

Organ Donor: Y

Dependents: none (5 adult children)

Current Location: [Redacted]

COMBAT EXPERIENCE

32 years enlisted in MAF

7 large operations

25 deployments

22 combat deployments

[Redacted] confirmed kills

102 battlemechs incapacitated/destroyed [ranged]

69 battlemechs incapacitated/destroyed [melee]

199 combat vehicles incapacitated/destroyed

10 aerospace craft downed [ranged]

3 aerospace crafted downed [melee]

1 dropship downed [ranged]

1 dropship downed [melee]

Areas Deployed: [Redacted]

Awards: Canopus Cluster [Platinum w/ Ruby], Fist of Raventhir [3152], Bravery Medal 1st class x12, Combat Excellence Ribbon x5

> open attachment 1? [Y/N]

> Y

> opening attachment:

// MAGISTRACY ARMED FORCES \\

--This information is not for public distribution.--

Yaguara 'Inanna' YGR-2D-IAL

Mass: 75 tons Chassis: Earthwerks TDR IV Power Plant: Vlar 300 XL Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph Maximum Speed: 86.4 kph Jump Jets: Rawlings Model 60 Jump Capacity: 120 meters Armor: Hellespont cFF Armament: 1 Rotary AC/2 2 ER Large Laser 2 Medium Pulse Laser 1 Medium Vibroblade

Manufacturer: Majesty Metals and Manufacturing Primary Factory: Unknown Communication System: Tek BattleCom Targeting & Tracking System: Tek Tru-Trak Introduction Year: 3146 Tech Rating/Availability: F/X-X-X-X Cost: 27,480,250 C-bills

Overview

Proposed as part of Project BIG CAT for the Magistracy of Canopus, the Yaguara was designed by Majesty Metals and Manufacturing in 3146 as a fast moving, hard-hitting heavy 'Mech.

This custom variant, built for Inanna Allard-Liao, possesses an extremely dangerous close combat weapon - a 'Mech vibroblade, mounted on a 'Mech-scale myomer tail, in addition to most of the weaponry of the base configuration.

Capabilities

The Yaguara was built from the ground up with speed and long-ranged engagement in mind. Built around a supercharged Vlar 300 XL engine, the 'Mech can sprint over 86 kph, allowing it to keep up with lances comprised of much lighter 'Mechs than itself. It complements this ground speed with four Rawlings Model 60 jump jets, granting it a jumping distance of 120 meters for an extra mobility boost. Its armament is built around a pair of Clan-spec ER Large Lasers, uncommon in the region, and a Class-2 Rotary Autocannon, with a pair of SRM 6s and medium pulse lasers as close-engagement backups. All of this, unfortunately, comes at the cost of heat - the Yaguara was designed with bracket fire in mind, and MechWarriors are advised not to alpha strike without due cause. This custom variant was built for Inanna Allard-Liao. It is a hybrid Clantech refit, using many experimental technologies, as well as the removal of the previously-mounted SRM 6s, to allow for the addition of a custom myomer armored tail, with a 'Mech scale vibroblade mounted to the end. Complimenting this weapon are Triple-Strength Myomer and a Supercharger, to allow the 'Mech to reach truly incredible speeds for its weight.

Controlled by Inanna using a salvaged Word of Blake Buffered VDNI system, the 'Mech moves with the same fluid grace as its pilot. Advances in Belter/Canopian hybrid medical science have extended Inanna's lifespan estimate from 15 years to 75, and are predicted to have significantly extended the initial onset period for the madness which often accompanies use of neural interface systems.

Type: Yaguara 'Inanna' Technology Base: Mixed (Experimental) Tonnage: 75 Battle Value: 3,768

Equipment Mass Internal Structure Endo Steel 4 Engine 300 XL 9.5 Walking MP: 4 Running MP: 6(8) Jumping MP: 4 Double Heat Sink 15 [30] 5 Compact Gyro 4.5 Interface Cockpit [VDNI] 4 Armor Factor (Ferro) 231 12.5

Internal Armor Structure Value

Head 3 9

Center Torso 23 35

Center Torso (rear) 11

R/L Torso 16 24

R/L Torso (rear) 8

R/L Arm 12 24

R/L Leg 16 32

Right Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand Left Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand

Weapons and Ammo Location Critical Heat Tonnage 2 Jump Jet LL 2 - 2.0 Nova Combined Electronic Warfare System CT 1 - 1.5 Supercharger CT 1 - 1.0 CASE II RT 1 - 0.5 Medium Pulse Laser RT 1 4 2.0 2 Double Heat Sink RT 4 - 2.0 Rotary AC/2 Ammo (90) RT 2 - 2.0 3 Triple Strength Myomer RA/LA 3/3 - 0.0 ER Large Laser LA 1 12 4.0 Vibroblade (Armored) LA 2 - 5.0 Medium Pulse Laser LT 1 4 2.0 Double Heat Sink LT 2 - 1.0 Rotary AC/2 LT 3 1 8.0 2 Jump Jet RL 2 - 2.0 3 Triple Strength Myomer RA/LA 3/3 - 0.0 ER Large Laser RA 1 12 4.0

Features the following Design Quirks: Animalistic Appearance, Battle Computer, Battle Fists, Battle Fists, Combat Computer, Directional Torso Mount (Vibroblade), Fine Manipulators, Hyper-Extending Actuators, Improved Communications, Improved Sensors, Multi-Trac, Nimble Jumper, Reinforced Legs, Rugged (1 Point), Difficult to Maintain

[minato-division03]

Results!

Results are in! Shall we see who is the fan favorite among Minato’s R.I.P Märchen?

Stay in your seats, ladies and gentlemen…

Queen Card!

So truthfully, I knew who wasn’t going to win this, I just wasn’t sure who was winning this. Not to say it’s one-sided, it seemed that each member has garnered a vote, with Reiaki in second place and Miku in third.

I see all the people who think Her Majesty is suspicious as hell (yes, I see them all), so in that regards… why? No matter! I’m glad to see the eccentric but regal Queen favored!

Queen Card: “We couldn’t be here without the help of you readers and the people who helped got us this far. Two years is quite the milestone. Make no mistake, this shall be the year we as a team get our happily ever after, as stated in those fairytales children adore so much. That we shall achieve all our goals and take that glory that Minato has been robbed of.”

Reiaki: “Even if we aren’t the only team representing Minato, we— I mean, I can’t speak for the others, but at least I hope this milestone is just a little step to a better future. These other girls drive me nuts on the daily, but I couldn’t think of better teammates to have! And thank you guys for being so invested in our little grand ol’ tale so far! Mwah! Thank you guys so, so, so, so much!”

Miku: “It’s been a tough little while since I only retired from entertainment recently, but it’s a warm welcome back, and I gotta thank you guys for the support so far. Our fairytale is pretty… broken, but you still keep up with us anyway. Here’s to many more years to come, as a team and as a community.”

Oh, but this isn’t over just yet!

We have one more surprise from Minato Division!

Yes, you read that right! The second part of “Behind the Glass Stains” will be released shortly after a year and a half! We will be taking a quick trip down memory lane to the time before R.I.P Märchen was formed.

Last we left off, we had been introduced to Juri and Ayato Yumesato, Reiaki’s roommates. Seemingly best friends with Buster Bros!!!, though she refuses to take on a hypnosis mic and take part of the Division Rap Battle in any way.

And just the day after little Ayato’s first birthday, an active Miku is sleepily waiting to get home after a long day of rehearsals and performing. Her own manager, Shohei Ikeishi, is encouraging to take a break from idol activities, to which Miku refuses due to her loyalty to her fans. She and her manager soon realize that they are being followed by an unknown person. It is revealed the next morning that the vehicle crashed into a container yard, resulting in Ikeishi’s death and Miku’s disappearance.

[satanachia666]

Satanachia’s Full Moon Ritual By Pearl Satanachia

Satanachia’s Full Moon Ritual

Summoning candle for Satanachia

Black candle

A candle in a color that corresponds to your intention - I often use blue or purple.

Rose incense sticks

Food offering

Libation - Liquid offerings include wine, seltzer, fruit juice, water, etc.

A poem to recite (written by you or someone else), a piece of art, or another creative offering

Silver chime candle

Lapis lazuli stone

Piece of paper with Satanachia’s seal on it

Lancet (or menstrual blood)

Cauldron or fireproof bowl

Any other magical supplies you need

Happy full moon! 🌕 I have left the spaces for the moon phase and specific intentions blank so you can customize the ritual accordingly. I usually perform this spell for protection, healing, and/or creativity, so that’s reflected in some of the language I use throughout this ritual. (That’s why I often use a blue or purple candle to represent my intentions when I do this ritual.) Nonetheless, I encourage you to personalize this ritual according to your own needs to maximize its effectiveness.

1. Light a candle for summoning Satanachia and say the invocation:

Hail Satanachia! Archdemon of the moon and planets! Grand General of Hell! Great protector of all women, femmes, and people with a uterus! Infernal purveyor of love, lust, passion, and creativity! I honor you with all of my heart and soul. You are wise in the ways of love and war, beauty and sublimity, magic and ecstasy, strategy and intoxication. Thank you for everything you’ve done for this world and myself Thank you for all of the infernal blessings that you continue to bestow upon us each day. I give you my deepest gratitude, love, and respect from the bottom of my heart. Satanachia, by your infernal powers of the full moon in _______, I call upon you with love and reverence: Please be present with me at this moment and onward. Please become one with me in body, mind, and soul. Please bestow your presence, power, protection, and love upon this full moon ritual and myself. So mote it be!

Repeat Satanachia’s enn 6 times while invoking them: Furca Na Alle Laris Satanachia

As you chant the enn and summon Satanachia, feel Satanachia’s presence growing within you and around you. Take note of their energy filling the ritual area and space in general. Generally speaking, the more you work with Satanachia, the easier it will be to invoke and sense them. Once you sense Satanachia within and around you, proceed to the next step:

2. Light a black tealight candle and say:

Hail Satanachia! I’ve lit this black candle in your honor. Please accept this black candle as a burnt offering and sacrifice of fire. Please accept this sacrifice of fire as an expression of my love, respect, and gratitude for you. It is my intention to connect with you, grow with you, and learn from you as my infernal teacher, demonic guide, and spiritual accomplice. May this flame shine like your power, glory, and brilliance do all across space, time, and beyond. So mote it be!

Continue to call Satanachia to you and connect with/attune to their energy.

3. Light a candle in the color of your choice, place it in the middle of the altar, and say: 

Hail Satanachia! You are infinite in your beauty, magic, healing, and creativity. You are a force of nature that empowers and liberates people from the shackles of patriarchy and oppression. The universe is blessed to know your majesty, and I am eternally grateful to have you in my life. Satanachia, please bless and charge this candle so as it burns, your infernal blessings fully manifest for me in my life. As this candle burns, I fully receive your infernal blessings of ________________. So mote it be!

Visualize the candle glowing as it charges with Satanachia’s energy. Once you’re satisfied with how much it has charged, continue to the next step:

4. Light a rose incense stick and say:

Hail Satanachia! I’ve lit this rose incense in your honor. Please accept this rose incense as a burnt offering and sacrifice of air. Please accept this sacrifice of air as an expression of my love, respect, and gratitude for you. It is my intention to connect with you, grow with you, and learn from you as my infernal teacher, demonic guide, and spiritual accomplice. May this smoke rise and disseminate like your influence, knowledge, and inspiration do all across space, time, and beyond. So mote it be!

5. Hold up your food offering and say:

Hail Satanachia! I’ve acquired/cooked this __________ in your honor. Please accept this food as an infernal offering and sacrifice of earth. Please accept this sacrifice of earth as an expression of my love, respect, and gratitude for you. Thank you for all of the prosperity, protection, and growth you’ve bestowed upon this world, the universe, and myself. I give you my deepest gratitude, love, and respect from the depths of my being. By the powers of the full moon in _________, please bless this infernal offering as a demonic sacrament so as I consume and digest it, I fully invoke you into my body, mind, heart, and spirit. As I partake in this demonic sacrament, I completely align myself with your demonic presence, power, protection, beauty, and creativity. Thank you, Satanachia! So mote it be!

Eat the infernal food offering, knowing that by consuming it, you are fully aligning yourself with Satanachia.

6. Pour your liquid of choice into the chalice. After you’re done pouring it, hold the cup and say:

Hail Satanachia! I’ve poured this libation in your honor. Please accept this libation as an infernal offering and sacrifice of water. Please accept this sacrifice of water as an expression of my love, respect, and gratitude for you. Thank you for all of the nurturance, intuition, and love you’ve bestowed upon this world, the universe, and myself. I give you my deepest gratitude, love, and respect from the depths of my being. By the powers of the full moon in _________, please bless this infernal offering as a demonic sacrament so as I drink and digest it, I fully invoke you into my body, mind, heart, and spirit. As I partake in this demonic sacrament, I completely align myself with your demonic presence, power, protection, beauty, and creativity. Thank you, Satanachia! Cheers to you now and forevermore! So mote it be!

Drink the whole libation.

7. Recite a poem for Satanachia or dedicate a piece of art to Satanachia as a creative offering. You could use any pre-existing poem or poem you’ve written that fits your ritual’s intention more specifically. You could also create art or acquire/print an image that you feel Satanachia would appreciate. Extend the creative offering by saying:

Hail Satanachia! I honor you with all my heart and soul. I am eternally grateful for all of the wisdom and greatness that you encompass. By the powers of the full moon in ________, I extend this poetry/art to you as a creative offering. Please accept this poem/art as a creative offering that expresses my love, respect, and gratitude for you. It is a privilege and honor to know you. Your strength and radiance shine forevermore. Thank you for being so present in my life, this world, and the universe at large. So mote it be!

After that, recite the poem as well as you can. That, or hold the art in the air and respectfully place it on the altar. Once you’re done, bow your head in respect, then continue with the ritual.

8. State your intention:

Hail Satanachia! You are the infernal embodiment of the full moon. You are exalted by the sky and enthroned by the sea. You are an infinite source of demonic wisdom, power, and inspiration. I honor you upon this full moon night and forevermore. Satanachia, I’ve come forth seeking your infernal blessings of ____________. Please bestow your infernal blessings of _______________ upon me so I thrive as an individual and as a witch. By your powers of the full moon in _________, please bestow your strength, knowledge, and inspiration upon me. Thank you, Satanachia. So mote it be!

9. Light a silver chime candle and say:

Hail the full moon in ___________! May this silver candle burn like the endless adoration and dreams inspired by your moonlight. Your light delivers your power, beauty, and insights to those of us who seek your majesty. Thank you for the love, wisdom, and visions that you bestow upon this world, the universe, and myself. I give you my sincerest gratitude, love, and respect from the bottom of my heart. I am forever in awe of you and the mysterious multitudes that you encompass. I am grateful to have the privilege of knowing you and your luminous embrace. Satanachia, Archdemon of the Moon, through your powers of the full moon in __________, please bless and charge this candle with the full moon’s spirit. Please enchant this candle so as it burns, your infernal blessings of ____________  fully manifest for me in my life. Thank you, Satanachia! So mote it be!

10. Pick up the lapis lazuli stone, hold it in your receptive hand (the hand you don’t write with), then say:

Hail Satanachia! This lapis lazuli stone represents your infernal powers of protection, healing, and creativity. By your powers of the full moon in _______, please cleanse, bless, and activate this stone with your spirit. As your magic shines through this stone, your energy influences my life in the most positive, impactful, and empowering ways possible. Thank you, Satanachia! So mote it be!

11. Pass the lapis lazuli stone through the rose incense smoke. If need be, light another incense stick and say the same passage you recited for the first incense offering. As you let the rose smoke envelop the stone, say Satanachia’s enn 6 times:

Furca Na Alle Laris Satanachia

12. Put the stone in your dominant hand (the hand you write with) and repeat the following chant. As you chant, visualize the lapis lazuli glowing with Satanachia’s energy:

By the full moon’s perfection, I call upon your protection. Water, fire, earth, and air - I kindle my blackest flame’s flare. West, South, North, and East My intuition is increased. 666 and three times three - As I will it, so mote it be!

As you chant and the silver chime candle burns, visualize and feel Satanachia’s energy running through you in the form of a silver glow. Know that this energy provides you with the protection, healing, creativity, and inspiration you need to thrive. Keep chanting until you feel that both the stone and yourself are fully charged by Satanachia’s spirit.

13. Extend the blood offering. Hold the paper with Satanachia’s seal on it and say:

Hail Satanachia! I want to give you one of the most intimate gifts I am capable of giving: the gift of blood. Please accept this blood as a burnt offering and sacrifice of fire, earth, water, and air. By the powers of the full moon in _________. please accept this blood sacrifice in exchange for bestowing ____________ upon me. Thank you for all of the assistance and empowerment you’ve granted me. I revere and embrace you so I am fully attuned to you. I shall anoint your seal with this blood so you shall receive its smoke with love and be as one with me. As this blood offering burns, please know that it is an expression of my undying gratitude, love, and respect for you. Thank you now and forevermore, Satanachia! So mote it be!

14. Poke your finger with the lancet, then anoint the paper with Satanachia’s seal on it with your blood. As you do this, know that you are sharing a personal piece of yourself with Satanachia, which strengthens your connection to them. Let the blood fully dry before setting it on fire. As it dries, visualize your energy blending with the spirit of Satanachia.

15. Set the blood-anointed seal on fire in a cauldron or fireproof bowl. As the smoke billows, visualize it seeping through the astral plane and drifting upward into Satanachia’s possession. Once it’s done burning, say:

Hail Satanachia! Thank you for accepting my burnt offering of blood in exchange for ____________. I am more grateful for your assistance and wisdom than mere words can express. I truly cherish you with all of my heart. So mote it be!

16. If the silver chime candle is still burning, spend the rest of the time meditating or doing something magical. It could be chanting more, charging another stone, drinking another libation in honor of Satanachia - Do whatever feels right and matches your intention!

17. Once the silver chime candle is almost completely burned, say the following words before putting it out:

Thank you, Satanachia! Thank you, full moon in _________! Thank you for manifesting your infernal blessings for me in my life. So mote it be!

18. To bid Satanachia a respectful farewell, say:

Hail Satanachia! Hail the full moon in _______! Thank you for bestowing your protection, creativity, and love upon this ritual and myself. Thank you for continuing to bless and guide me in my everyday life. This ritual has come to an end, but I know you are always within and around me. You are free to go as you please, but welcome to stay as you wish. Thank you, Satanachia! So mote it be!

Put out the candle you used to invoke Satanachia. Then put out the candle that represents your intention. Let the black tea candle burn out on its own.

19. Close the ritual by saying:

This ritual is finished, but its results are complete, high quality, and eternal. So mote it be!

20. Scatter the ashes of the blood offering somewhere on your property or close to you.

* Whenever you feel like it, after the ritual, burn the candle that represents your intention while praying/chanting to Satanachia. This will improve your connection with Satanachia and help you manifest more of what you desire in your life.

Good luck with everything! 🍀

🌕 Pearl Satanachia 🌕

[afterthefeast]

ok ep 1 rewatch thoughts

appreciating a lot more how crozier’s relationship with both franklin and fitzjames is actively bad, not merely difficult. also that this obviously plays into the overall themes of civilisation and imperialism. crozier is not from the imperial metropole and is treated as such, and his manner is accordingly brusque and, well, uncivilised, whereas franklin and fitzjames cultivate (in jfj’s case very consciously) imperial charm and civility, but obviously this is pure vanity and an affectation which is actively harmful to their crew. when he’s stuck in an environment which operates on the rules of victorian social engagement, crozier’s lack of civility means he will never be listened to no matter how clearly he articulates obvious truths, and f&f’s extreme reliance (for various reasons) on that civility for power means they cannot capitulate.

really really liked hickey closing young’s coffin - i dislike the interpretation that hickey is just a psychopath who cut loose after things went to shit because it’s so boring. moments like this are good reminders that even though okay yeah he had already killed a guy for a free trip hickey nonetheless adhered to some of the basic trappings of, i guess, civilisation as defined by human respect (not civility a la the above point). AND it’s crucial that this is shown specifically through his insistence on respecting the dead, when it’s the lack of that very respect that will characterise some of his worse deeds later on.

ALSO very important in this scene is that tozer is the one telling him it doesn’t matter; foreshadows that tozer will be pretty chill with cannibalism later on

the fact that stanley makes goodsir perform the autopsy on young even though he doesn’t want to - obviously foreshadowing the eventual intrumentalisation of the body for cannibalism, but also showing how the hierarchy of imperialism means that those at the bottom have the bloodiest hands. for all that obviously franklin and the other officers are at the top of this scale on the ships they’re still at the end of the day bit players in the overall imperial project, and as dispensable to the admiralty as you might expect - those at the centre of power, who never have to succumb to the moral sacrifices (cannibalism, abandoning your friends etc) that the Terror crew have to. worthy reminder as well that franklin, whose desperation for glory is obviously an inherently imperial one and is also what dooms everybody on board the ships, dies in ep3 and so is spared all of the suffering and moral capitulation that’s in store for the rest. and of course ultimately this scene’s key purpose is reminding us that goodsir is the instrument of imperialism whether he realises this or not, and despite his otherwise staunch moral compass and openness to silna is complicit in colonialism as much as the next member of her majesty’s navy.

collins’ diving into the sea and seeing billy orren’s corpse still the scariest thing in this whole goddamn show

franklin continues to irritate me more than anything but there’s something interesting to the fact that he is extremely beloved by his men but very clearly loves them only as instruments for his glory and because he wants to be liked. i mean this was obvious the first time but it’s worth repeating because i hate him so much. more germane is the reminder that he’s really religious - im too tired to properly figure this one out atm but something something eucharist monologue, christianity being easy to twist and warp vs the crew and franklin especially (and even goodsir) being completely uninterested in netsilik beliefs (taking silna’s dad’s charms pretty clearly dooming them).

also interesting in the context of the above is the fact that fitzjames is like, obviously more popular with the officers than franklin. specifically gore, it seems, because he looks to fitzjames first for approval when crozier asks him about seeing the sun-dogs, and fitzjames also nods at him when franklin initially dismisses his ice reports. nonetheless a good example of how fitzjames’ social skills have got him where he is but aren’t enough to prevent disaster because he can’t (and won’t) really put them to use where they would be needed (siding with crozier against franklin).

speaking of fitzjames he also looks actively terrified at several points during the last ten minutes. and franklin makes no effort to reassure him get this man a better father figure stat

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

We Adore You The Majesty and Glory Performers | Runtime: 1min 56secs

[master-john-uk]

A wonderfully fabulous evening with great music and brilliant performances from Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen, soloist Sheku Kanneh-Mason playing a cello 300 years older than he is, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Singers, organist and composer James B. Wilson, and... of course the enthusiastic crowd... all led by conductor Marin Alsop.

The best part for me... and probably everybody else who attended the concert, was the "audience participation" sequence: a medley of British sea songs, Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory. The concert concluded with God Save The King, followed by a chorus of Auld Lang Syne.

Personally, I had a fantastic time and found the evening exhilarating. But, I also felt very emotional. Being a silly old fool, the patriotic songs always bring a little tear to my eye... but, last night my emotions were heightened by memories of my dear cousin Richard.

Before he passed away in April 2022, Richard used his contacts in the BBC to procure us a box at Last Night of The Proms. When his will was read, in regard to me he said, "There is no point in leaving you any money, you will only waste it on Scotch whisky or Champagne! Instead, I give you something that I know you will truly enjoy..." "...Sing your heart out in memory of me!"

Last year's Last Night was cancelled due to the death of Her Majesty The Queen. As our tickets were not obtained through the usual channels, I thought we had lost our opportunity and suggested that we hold our own Proms party in 2023.

Tom (Richard's son) was more upset about me not being able to attend the concert than I was. He went through his dad's correspondence and address book and contacted several of Richard's BBC "friends". The matter was quickly resolved, and we were promised a VIP Guest Box for Last Night Of The Proms 2023. (Well done you, Tom... and thank you to Richard's BBC friends.)

I did sing my heart out... although my voice cracked at one point as tears began to flow. I sat down for a few seconds to regain my composure, before singing the best and loudest tenor voice rendition of Land Of Hope And Glory that anybody has ever heard!

Thank you dear Richard. It was a night I will never forget!

[blackfemmecharacterdependency]

BFCD Reviews by Nesha: Wicked Part One.

This is mostly commentary about my relationship with this body of work and not a run down of the production of the current iteration.

I think the idea that if you've loved Wicked for a long time that the new movie subtracts something from it is probably only a problem in the event that the only piece of Oz lore you've loved is the Broadway play.

I didn't have the means to see Wicked when it was initially a show and social media was not yet a daily part of lifestyle. I was EXCITED for a new take on things whenever the story came about, especially as a lover of dark fairy tales (and if you know me outside), the Wicked Witch herself, as an archetype.

I grew up on most frequently enjoying The Wiz on holidays, as a Black child, and The Wizard of Oz when it aired, as an American tradition. I read two Oz books in school, as a little bookworm, and rented Return to Oz from the public library a couple of times before it vanished and didn't get reoredered there. These stories my child's brain registered as "horror," and "horror" was of my favorite genres.

I lived for horror, fantasy, and sci fi. The lore of Oz gave me these. I enjoyed some musicals as a kid too, but Wicked, as a play, really did so many things for me as a strange, different, underappreciated teenager who loved all of the things that went into creating this enduring vision of Oz.

Revisiting the books later and seeing the author biase in the ways the stories were told made it an even more rewarding universe to expand with later voices and interpretations. Seeing a Blacker version in The Wiz, most frequently as a young person, then FINALLY, eventually seeing bits and pieces of the Broadway version and experiencing the book, and being able to interact with the media of Oz in a more evolved way as someone more in tune with politics, and by that time a theater loving kid with very limited access to stage theater.

Seeing Wicked the first time as a young adult, on video in full form, but not being able to even get the full experience, and STILL crying deeply from the storytelling and performances and the growth of Oz was an extremely important part of my life after years of consuming multiple versions of Oz and several horror, monstrous, *wicked* versions of a which who was a compelling villain for decades and also a compelling heroine. Depending on the times and who gets to tell the stories...

This new iteration of the chronicles of The Wicked Witch of the West, and these new contributions to the majesty of the Universe of Oz affected me VERY deeply as a lover and consumer of the Wicked musical. This movie didn't cheapen a thing for me, because I was always grateful for another look at a tale so old but so present. I always see a new portion as a pocket of the Oz universe that somebody else gets to make a part of their life like I did when I didn't have access to consuming a Broadway play like the internet and social media has given now.

And every Black Oz fangirl who has collected her portions for the mental patchwork of the Evolution of Oz now have grandiose nature of the magic that technicolor gave audiences that didn't include representation, and the heroine that The Wiz gave without the underbelly of the urban crime twist.

We have Elphaba on screen in all her social justice glory. We have AMAZING theater performers... Ariana Grande being a LONG TIME Wicked fan and being able to bring her love and her art together because she's had the commercial success to become a big star was touching to me. Cynthia Erivo, a woman I will never enjoy outside of her work, brought her skilled theater experience and her star factor performance to a role that has been here for the misfits for decades. Jonathan, an amazing theater guy who I was excited to see from the moment they announced it...

Like... if you love the theater aspect they gave it to you with the most important players AND they gave the girlies who will never see a Broadway stage visuals above and beyond.

I saw a little girl at the theater who had a fine time, but me:

The 43 year old woman with just as long of a relationship with Oz in a dozen different ways/ The Black woman who drove 4½ hours to watch The Wiz Live on TV with her siblings because we grew up on the movie and this was going to feature so many things I loved and wanted to experience with them despite living cities away; and drove even longer in holiday traffic to bring her youngest sibling (who she introduced to the original play as a little kid when she herself was a young adult), to see THIS movie in theaters as two now grown women who have loved Wicked, specifically since the olden days and bonded through musicals despite our age gap because I loved theater so much she picked it up and ran all the way through college involved in it. The lady whose ex took her to finally see Wicked, live, when they lived in Connecticut because she knew that she could afford it and I may have never seen it onstage with my own eyes, crying the entire experience, without meeting this person who granted me that...

For me, living my life with the Oz I knew, loved, sought out, watched transform, hated some, but still partook, and to lead to a box office production with both talent and grandeur... I was the young person filled with wonder, crying and breathing hard and being filled up with appreciation and gratitude that I get to be alive to see this portion of the Land of Oz.

The movie didn't let me down at all. Not one version of the me who has followed the yellow brick road since infancy. It gave me more.

[hufflepuff-proudbadger]

Hi, It's been a long time since I wrote anything, but here we are. I've just finished reading The Stolen Heir and once again Holly Black has my heart pounding.

Jude knows about Oak

In the royal chambers, the High King and High Queen were trying to relax from royal duties with a hot bath in the enormous bathtub.

"Cardan, if you don't stop this immediately, we'll soon run out of water. " - Jude said sternly, trying to get her husband to stop splashing her with the water that was pouring out of the tub onto the floor.

"I really love that disapproving face of yours"

"It's not disapproving, but if you continue with this prank there will be no water or soap bubbles that will resist." - said the tall queen taking a soap bubble in her hand and examining it as she reclined on the edge of the bath.

Cardan notice her worried face and it clearly wasn't about her husband sinking the bathroom.

"What's up with that my sweet poison face?"

She doesn't talk only shrugs her shoulders, her eyes are not on him but still on the soap bubble. He strides to her and when he's near her he blows so the bubble fades away and she puts her full attention on him.

"Now tell me what annoys and infuriates you" Jude sighs and looks at his dark eyes, does eyes are like an abyss, she can't lie to him as easily as before.

Her body is completely reclined on the edge of the tub. Cardan's arms hold her somehow, comfort, she feels.

"I'm just worried about Oak... it's been a while since we've heard from him and I'm honestly afraid something has happened."

"Worry not my feral queen, Oak is very intelligent and promising in the art of fighting... better than I. - he touches his forehead with hers and she smiles at the statement.

"I'm sure everything will be fine."

"But if..."

"Don't worry your head with that we are here to relax a bit are we not?" she nods slowly and calmly.

"So let us enjoy then, every minute... (a kiss on her cheek) every second... (a kiss on her nose) of each other's company"- he states kissing her lips, pausing to see her reaction.

Jude has a soft smile on her face and pushes him for a long and passionate kiss.

How they missed these little moments in each other's company, so many problems and duties to solve and let them perform with very little time for these delights. Tragic delights as Cardan liked to call them. Suddenly a knock on the door is heard but not strong to separate them or made them stop.

A more rushed and strong knock it's heard and the high queen stops pushing her husband away.

"Come in" - she allows the person to enter hoping it's some news about Oak. Jude knows that she isn't decent to receive someone but she's the queen and she's very nervous too.

A pixie maid and a guard enter the room the maid has a letter in her hands.

"Your majesties, I beg your pardon to interrupt but this letter came with the maximum urgency to the palace" - she puts the letter in Jude's hand which was already stretched ready to open.

While she reads attentively, Cardan catches the wine goblet on a table near the bathtub and dismisses the maid and the guard. Sipping the sweet wine he keeps looking at his wife for a change of mood but he only can see her bare back.

"Tell me my sweet Goddess" - I put my hand on her back tracing circles. "What..."

"We have to move quickly" - Jude stands up suddenly still naked in all her glory looking for a robe to cover her body - "Here, get ready."

Cardan looks at her angry face and tries to understand what is going on, he reads the letter attentively.

A devilish smile appears on his face. He quickly arrives in the bedroom where his wife is all dressed up looking at him with a determined face. "Looks like someone underestimated my Queen"

"It won't stay like this, I assure you, they will regret having underestimated us, all of them they will regret the ground they stepped on."

Her rage's really motivating and makes Cardan feel proud of her leadership.

"They will regret"

[theprayerfulword]

September 02

Malachi 3:16 Those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in His presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored His name.

Jeremiah 33:3 Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.

Proverbs 1:5 let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance –

Revelation 7:15 Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them.

1 John 5:13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.

Romans 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

May your eye never have enough of seeing the majesty of the Lord in His creation, nor your ear its fill of hearing the Word of God. Ecclesiastes 1

May your heart take delight in your work, for this is the true reward for your labor. Ecclesiastes 2

May you know that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness. Ecclesiastes 2

May you receive your daily bread from the Lord, and find satisfaction from God in your work, for without Him, who can eat or find enjoyment? Ecclesiastes 2

May you please God, Who gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness. Ecclesiastes 2

May you understand that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live, for to eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all your toil is the gift of God, Whose work endures so that men will revere Him. Ecclesiastes 3

My child, be not conformed to the world's styles or manners, norms or graces, fashions or mercies, for they will shift even as you achieve them, being fickle in nature and ever-changing in focus. Rather, be renewed in your mind through the truth of My Word and the indwelling of My Spirit, letting Me mold you and shape you into the vessel I desire. I am endlessly creative, My precious one, and I have no limits or boundaries. What man does, has been done before; what I do, My love, is a new thing. Do not look for differences among those who name My name, for each of My children is a unique expression of My love; instead, look for the similarities that you have been taught from My word – meekness, gentleness, kindness, steadfastness, goodness, peace, joy, love, for these are My fingerprints embedded in the clay of your nature. They are inescapable indicators of submission to My will and acceptance of My salvation. You are My workmanship, peculiarly fashioned for good works, individually formed for the purpose I have chosen for you from before the earth's foundation. You do not fit with the flow of the world, and you do not blend with the crowd. You are a light on a hill, and cannot be hid. I have made you a spectacle for the world to look upon, a gazing-stock for the world to see, that My grace and mercy, My truth and power, My redemption and sanctification may be seen by all, though many will reject the first sight and initial exposure to My gospel. You will plant the seed of the good news of My salvation by your life, your speech, your choices, your actions and reactions; prayers will water My Word in their hearts, events will till the ground, removing thorns and weeds, breaking up the hard clods and removing the rocks, and My Spirit will watch over My Word to ensure it performs that which I have sent it to do. Do not resent your special characteristics or the constraints they place upon you, My dear one, for they are to the glory of God, and will be for the praise from many unto the Lord.

May you not receive God's grace in vain for now is the time of God's favor and the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6

May you give no offense or cause anyone to stumble by the way you live so that your work for God will be blameless and no fault will be found with your service to the Most High. 2 Corinthians 6

As a servant of the Most High God, may your life demonstrate your ministry and exhibit your obedience in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as imposters; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet living on; beaten and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything. 2 Corinthians 6

May you have no fear as you make God your refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, its waters roaring and foaming and the mountains quaking with their surgings. Psalm 46

May you find that city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells, and the river whose streams make the city glad, though other nations are in uproar and kingdoms without God fall, for the Lord Almighty is with you and the God of Jacob is your fortress. Psalm 46

May you come and see the works of the Lord, the astonishing things brought on the earth as He makes wars cease across the earth, breaking the weapons and burning the shields, that all would be still and know that He is God, exalted among the nations, honored in the earth, mighty among us and ever our fortress. Psalm 46

Though senselessness disturbs our heart and foolishness fills us when we are young, may we embrace the loving discipline of our heavenly Father Who is able to remove it far from us. Proverbs 22:15

[sbbreflections]

EXODUS

2. Exodus.

Whew! This one is long. It was packed.

The Lord displays unparalleled power against His enemy, and mercy for his people, using Moses as messenger. God reveals that He is all knowing and even shines His direct light on Moses, because Moses was righteous and obedient. The Ten Commandments are written (Exodus 20) and altars/tabernacles and proper ways are defined.

Moses did not think he was worthy or prepared for what God set on his path. And what *did* Moses know?

Moses knew that he knew nothing. But he was blessed, and having been granted:

1. the only opportunity to lead his people (whom he’d once oppressed) out of slavery;

2. eye-witness to God’s majesty through his very own body (as God spoke and Moses acted or repeated His words - prophesying God’s will); AND

3. singular, direct access to the glory of God (on numerous occasions!);

he quickly came to understand that all he needed to know was God. Moses was granted these things because God trusted him. God knew Moses’s heart.

He had been blessed and protected from birth, shielded from imminent death (in his infancy!) and given the treasure of a royal upbringing. A Hebrew baby boy, literally sentenced to death by the very people who would raise him in their home.

When he grew up, Moses committed a crime, and God vindicated him. Moses told God that he was not capable to do what He asked of him, and God told him that he had everything he would need. A stick by which some of his miracles would be performed, and his brother, Aaron*…

God knew that His people would move at the sounds of Moses’ and Aaron’s voices. However, Pharaoh was a stubborn man, and God knew that too (of course, right). He knew that it would take many disastrous trials - up to and including the overnight massacre of the first born sons of all the land! - before Pharaoh would allow Israel’s people to depart from Egypt. And he also knew that once the exodus began, given the right moment, an army would pursue Israel in an effort to destroy them. The Lord told Moses, upfront, {Exodus4:21-23} “when you arrive, you will show Pharaoh my power through the miracles I have empowered you with, and I will make it so that he rebukes Me** and refuses to let My firstborn child (Israel) go. And you will tell him, since he has refused, I will now k!ll your first born son.” And that is what He did.

Moses was not shy with God. He asked questions from “Why me?” when presented with his big assignment, to “Can’t you forgive and spare the lives of those same people you have just saved from Egypt - YOUR people?” when Israel’s people became restless and decided to participate in idolatry - which apparently The Lord detests! AND had told them NOT to do***. How could they?! He was ready to wipe them OUT.

Moses had gone to meet with The Lord (for 40 days and nights) so that the law and the covenant could be written, and in his absence, the fools turned up! Listen, even Moses was pissed. So much so that he scolded them and destroyed the mess they made. And BECAUSE MOSES ASKED God to consider the weight of his anger (and reminded Him of his promise to His servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob {Exodus32:11-13}) - God punished them but He did spare their lives. And only those who came to Him.

*Moses had an older brother who would speak for him (be his mouthpiece), as Moses spoke God’s words - because his older brother was *of* the people (born and raised Hebrew) and could influence and lead them in a way, as well… meaning the people would listen. As such, Aaron the Levite (Moses brother) would eventually become the first High Priest who would consult with The Most High regarding Israel’s (the peoples) most pressing concerns.

**The Pharoah of Egypt, who sees himself and the ancient gods as “God” with pride and dignity, would surely deny the works of The Most High, so long as they could be disproved with magic… The Lord knew that this embedded system would lead to the Exodus (as well as the destruction) he had planned. He also knew it was a sure way to display His own true majesty for the sake of the Israelites.

***The people feared the presence of The Lord who appeared before them just once (on Mt Sinai), and they understood very well who brought them out of Egypt. God demanded that they remember “to not make idols of silver or gold to rival me.” {Exodus20:22-23}.

****Exodus 18:13-26 Moses’ stepfather advised him to assign helpers so Moses would not bear the burden of ALL of Israel's people on his own shoulders. Moses would then only receive the most pressing issues which might need to be taken to The Lord.

Next is Leviticus.

Original Post Dated February 17, 2024

Written x SP