#good tidings of comfort and joy to all who read this

[masterjedilenawrites]

Here's To Many More

Clone x Reader Life Day Exchange 2024

Echo x reader | 1.9k words

Content: themes of angst - such as having a difficult year and feeling alone, references to past anxiety attacks, hand scars and tremors, comments about life & death, an almost-kiss, themes of hope and joy at the end

Prompts Used: 

"Breathe. Hi, we found you, just breathe for me, okay?"

"Hey there, take it easy. Your body went through a lot."

generally healing after physical & emotional trauma

Note: Hiya @writersnook11, nice to meet you! Holiday angst - what a fun challenge. I ran with a vibe from a Christmas song that's been hitting me in the feels this season - sort of has a melancholy-turned-hopeful tone to it. I linked it at the end but it's not a requirement to listen, just thought I'd pay credit to my inspiration.

Leaves fluttered and rustled against the pavement as your speeder, contributing to the symphony with its own soft hum, drove over them. The suns setting earlier meant an otherwise bustling neighborhood now lay quiet and peaceful in the dark, adorned in their twinkling holiday lights and warmed by their fireplaces and gathered loved ones.

You drove through the rustling and the twinkling, noticing every detail with an odd, sort of detached calmness. You'd been down these lanes countless times in your life, but it was like it was the first time you were truly seeing everything. All the colors and textures and temperatures. So many homes, full of so many people, living so many lives. There was a whole world out here, outside of your head.

Eventually your own home came into sight. You pulled up next to the first bit of empty curb, just one house away, and killed the engine. The hum of the speeder died down, leaving you in still, quiet air. Cold air. You flexed your gloved fingers, grateful you'd been able to scrounge up a pair for the trip, though your poor, frozen nose hadn't been so lucky. You cupped your hands around your face and took a few open-mouthed breaths to generate some heat. It didn't quite do the trick, so you dropped your hands back down into your lap with a sigh. Of course, you could just run inside and get warmed up soon enough. But that would require energy, urgency, things you'd been in short supply of most of the year. So instead, you lingered. Took your time. Paid attention to the sensations of the world around you and not on exhausting thoughts like running.

Something was tickling your face. You ran a finger across your cheek and pulled it back to inspect the tiny flecks of snow now caught on your glove. You wanted to feel them fully so you gingerly took off both of your gloves, finger by finger, until the skin of your hands was exposed. Hands that looked nothing like your own. You knew they were yours, they moved like yours, they felt like yours, but they didn't look like yours. They were scarred and calloused, palms barely able to flatten out as you held them up in hopes of catching more snow. As predicted, your right one immediately started shaking, unable to hold the position without triggering its tremors. You quickly closed your fist and held it to your chest with your other hand. 

It's okay, it's okay. You squinted your eyes shut, trying to keep your breathing steady and not to let your mind wander in all the usual dark places. It's okay. Just breathe.

Just breathe...

Your own inner voice started to shift into the voice of another. A firm, steady voice you had been reaching out to in your memory more often these days.

Breathe. Hi, we found you, just breathe for me, okay?

You cracked your eyes open, half expecting to see his face just as you had in that closet. Panicking. Overwhelmed. Unable to catch your breath until he'd grasped your shoulders and coaxed you into calming down. When you'd opened your eyes and met his, so full of care and understanding, it hadn't mattered that half the party was crowded behind him, staring and whispering nervously. All you had been concerned with was following his gentle instructions, trusting that he'd lead you to safety.

Opening your eyes this time, you of course were met with the darkness of the night, broken up only by the tiny flakes of snow drifting in it. You were still clutching your hand to your chest, but that little well of anxiety that had threatened to rise up had been quelled. You were breathing just fine.

You were fine.

Alone, but fine.

A soft crunching of leaves grabbed your attention. You peered down the sidewalk and saw someone approaching. It could have been worrisome, a mysterious dark figure headed your way you at night. Except you could clearly see one of the limbs ended not in a hand, but a scomp link. There were very few people it could be, and only one given the context.

"Ah, I was hoping it was you! Saw some head-beams, thought I'd come out and see if anyone needed help."

"Hey, Echo." You hadn't known his name when he'd found you hiding in your friend's closet all those months ago, and now you knew him as a friend, too. Perhaps not as close as the ones you'd known since childhood, but he was a good one all the same.

You briefly considered jumping out of your seat and meeting him on the sidewalk, slipping an arm through his and guiding him back inside where it was likely so much warmer and merrier. That's what old you would have done. Before... well, before you became the present you. The one that struggled to think quickly enough to make decisions and just wanted to get through one day without feeling like dead weight.

Thankfully Echo didn't skip a beat. He walked right up to your speeder, opened the passenger door, and slid into the seat next to you.

"You alright?" he asked with a half-smile. But he didn't wait for an answer, knowing you hated the question. "It's been a while since I've seen you. You're looking a lot better."

You couldn't help but return a small smile of your own. You knew he wouldn't lie to you. It felt good to hear you didn't look like such a mess anymore.

"I'm feeling better," you responded.

"Oh?"

"Not great," you quickly caveated. "But better. Fine. I feel fine."

Echo nodded. "I'm really glad to hear that. And I'm really glad you're here. We weren't sure you'd make it."

You were pretty sure you knew what he meant but decided to take the opportunity to indulge in some dark humor.

"What? That I wouldn't come tonight? Or that I wouldn't be alive for another Life Day?"

Rather than smack you upside the head for such a comment, like all of your other friends surely would, Echo merely leveled a look back at you that made you smirk in amusement.

"You know very well I was referring to your annoying habit of canceling plans at the last minute. How many times now have you said you'd be home soon?"

You merely rolled your eyes, refraining from comment. You knew that he knew that you had your reasons for being away for so long. He was only teasing.

Echo reached over and set one of his hands on top of yours. "That said, you did worry me a few times. So yes, I'm really glad you're here. In both senses of the word."

His smile made you feel warm, and the way he was looking at you lit a small but happy fire within your chest. Perhaps that's why you didn't notice how cold your fingers had gotten in the night air without gloves. Though with his hand over your own, Echo could certainly tell.

"And on that note, let's get you inside. Everyone else will be excited to see you, too."

Echo scrambled out as you slowly got your own door open. You shoved your gloves into your coat before they could fall off of your lap as you stood.

"Here, let me," you could hear Echo calling as he hurried around to your side of the speeder. Ever the gentleman. Unfortunately, in his haste, his foot caught on something, maybe a branch or a crack in the pavement, and he went stumbling forward. You were already on both your feet and quickly reached out to help steady him, bracing your arms underneath his.

"Hey there, take it easy. Your body went through a lot this year, too," you smirked a bit as you both caught your breaths from the unexpected activity.

Echo chuckled. He was embarrassed, you could tell by the bright pink flush to his cheeks, but your comment seemed to lighten the mood. That, and the fact you were now standing very close together, still holding each other up. Echo blinked down at you, awkward and confused at first, and then relaxing as his gaze stayed in yours. That quiet stillness of the night you'd been thinking about earlier made its way back. Only now you weren't so alone in it.

Just when a sudden, pleasant thought entered your mind, that maybe he would kiss you, Echo cleared his throat and shifted back. He withdrew his scomp quickly while his good hand softly dragged along your arm as it fell away. A line of goosebumps surged in its wake, causing you to shiver, and unfortunately reminding Echo why he had rushed over here in the first place.

"Time to go inside," he nodded matter-of-factly. And you found you couldn't argue. It was getting pretty cold. So you fell into step beside him as you finally walked the final steps back home.

A wave of warmth and light and laughter hit you as the front door opened. Somewhere between the group hugs and the smell of baked goods, you'd forgotten why you'd been so anxious to come back here all those times. All of your loved ones were here, every single one. Seeing their faces, hearing their voices, was now filling a part of you you hadn't realized had been so empty for so long. The thought would have delighted you had you had the energy for such a strong emotion. So instead you settled for serenity. A calmer, quieter version of happiness. And though you weren't matching everyone else's liveliness, you still found yourself able to keep up with their conversations. You helped where you could, being mindful of your limits but never dwelling on them. And you even joined in on singing an impromptu carol.

Echo stayed close by you throughout the evening. You weren't sure what had happened, or almost happened, between you earlier, and you suspected he was still thinking about it too as you caught him gazing the same way at you several times. You'd be here for a few more nights, as would he, so you were sure there'd be other opportunities to figure things out. Tonight was for catching up and keeping warm and finally putting some of your deepest troubles to bed.

Oh it had been such a long, long year. You'd been tested in ways you never knew possible, each seemingly worse than the last. Your heart often sat heavy within you and several times you'd wondered if you could keep going.

And then... you did.

You pushed through one trial and into the next tribulation, again and again, and eventually you made your way here. To this very spot where you suddenly, finally, felt good. Your body had been through it, but you weren't broken beyond repair. You'd experienced far more than your fair share of grief, but you hadn't lost everything. You weren't thriving, but you also weren't hanging by a thread. You had hope. For the first time in a long time, you were allowing yourself to look ahead.

And toward the end of the night, when you'd all gathered around the fireplace and were holding mugs aloft in a toast to the season, you had your chance to declare your intentions for the future.

"Happy Life Day!" everyone cheered together.

"Happy Life Day," Echo whispered next to you.

You smiled up at him and clinked your mug against his.

"And here's to many more."

Song Inspo: Merry Christmas, Here's to Many More - Relient K

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[rainbows-r-nice05]

Frozen Camera

I watched Rise of the Guardians and fell in love with Jack Frost because he is my baby. Anyway here is something I just whipped up and I know it's bad but I needed to so it to ease my mind.

I hate studying, I really do. My mind tries to focus but it drifts into dreamland. Dreaming of the impossible. Fighting dragons, ruling a kingdom….....finding true love. But enough about that. To relax a little, I decided to go read a book outside. Since it was Christmas time, I picked up the story about all the different kinds of Christmas characters. It was night time so I made sure to bring some blankets out. As I stepped outside on my back porch, coldness engulfed me. My porch was spacious with lawn chairs and a brick pillar on the side that leads into the grass. Oh, how beautiful it was. Christmas lights dance around my neighbors backyards across the lake connecting them. Lights from blue and white to red and green. The fountain was still going as the wind danced through it. I sat down in order to enjoy reading a bit into my novel. This section was about the famous Jack Frost to whom I believed in when I was a little kid. But not anymore since I am a junior in high school.   About 10 mins into my book, I absentmindedly start singing a famous Christmas Carol.  

God rest ye merry gentlemen

Let nothing you dismay

Remember Christ our Savior

Was born on Christmas Day

I heard distant barking of dogs nearby which was normal. And the rustle of plants that were caused by the wind.  

To save us all from Satan's pow'r

When we were gone astray

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joyI

Oh tidings of comfort and joy

All of a sudden, my ears perk up at this crinkle or a sound of frost covering something. Like a tingling sound of some sort. I looked around and saw one of my security cameras had frost covering the lens. 

“That's weird,” I muttered to myself as I stood up, set my book down and walked toward the camera. Over the lens it looked blueish with little snowflakes covering it. My curiosity got the best of me so I decided to go inside and get a ladder. (The camera was on the ceiling). I got the ladder from the garage and walked back outside. I opened it and climbed all the way to the top. I looked closely at the camera and scratched the frost off of it. Somehow, the frost just would not come off. 

“OH GOS-,” suddenly I lost my balance and was headed toward the ground. 

“Gotcha,” I was caught by someone who was levitating off of the ground and wrapped my arms around this persons neck. It seemed to be a boy around my age who had piercing blue eyes and platinum blond hair. His skin was pale white and freezing for that matter. His dazzling white teeth showed as he smiled lovingly at me. My goodness was he handsome.  

“Woah…” I was too starstruck to even comprehend what was happening. 

“Lost your balance, there sweetheart,” the mysterious man said.

“You-your-you…” 

“Jack Frost is the name,” he said as he lowered me to the ground. 

“Oh my goodness.. It's really you,”

“Of course it's me, alive and in person.” His smile…. Is so…..loving. I finally got a good look at him and he was wearing a blue hoodie with some light brown pants. He was indeed barefoot as he was Jack Frost.  

Oh my gosh.  OH MY GOSH The Jack Frost in front of ME!!!

“And what might your name be pretty girl,” 

Pretty girl…. I flushed deeply at that. I smiled sheepishly as I introduced myself. 

“(Y/N) (L/N) at your service,” as I extended my hand out for him to shake. 

He shook it softly and his hands were beyond freezing. 

“Wait, what are you doing here?” I was so puzzled as to why he was here. It was December right, but it does not even snow over here. 

“Oh.. Well…” he walked around with his staff tapping the bird bath with it and it froze solid. 

“I got quite bored while I was patrolling so I decided to fly across a random area where I found a beautiful singing voice in this very backyard.”

As if I could ever be more redder, my face would be a tomato. 

“What were you doing out here,” he said as he pointed his staff at me. 

I gently pushed his staff out of my face and raised an eyebrow. 

“Well, It is my backyard” I started to walk around him. 

“But if you want to know, I was reading a book.”

“Oh… interesting” 

“Y’know, you have a very nice backyard,” he stated as he walked around and faced the lake. 

“And a very nice show you get to watch.” 

I giggled lightly at that. 

“Oh yes, Christmas is the best time of the year when I get to sit outside in the cold and light a fire. I see all the Christmas lights in their glory.” I smiled at last night's occurrence which was just like how I described. 

“Well, isn’t that nice,” he said as he gazed at me. 

All of a sudden I hear this ringing noise that sounds jolly. Jack takes a small device out of his hand and looks very disappointed. He verbally groans. 

“Wish I could stay, but Santa needs me.”

“You mean North,” I say out of the blue

“Wait how do you-” 

“Jack,” I giggle a little, 

“Might want to go see him” I say as I step in front of him pointing at the device smiling. 

He smiles as he is about to fly away. 

“Wait!” I put a hand up signaling him to not go yet. 

“Will I ever see you again?” 

“I’ll make sure I will see you again, snowflake.” He says as he takes my hand and kisses it with his cold yet soft lips. 

I smile and yet again, I flush at the nickname. 

He then flies away and I am left alone outside. I walk back to the camera and see that the frost has disappeared. I smile as I walk back inside. I gaze back out across the lake where I think of the many events that Jack Frost will show me. 

thinking on a part two maybe or a milti series thing idk yet lol

I have to get back to studying though

[luvhiromi]

i love you, i'm sorry | satosugu

content: inspired by gracie abram's song "i love you, I'm sorry". so basically this is about gojo's pov about geto and i thought the bridge from that song was perfect for it. the lyrics in this fic are in italic but not bold just an fyi for you guys. happy reading!

c/w: satosugu itself is a warning, angst.

w/c: 664, so short ik

He was… everything. In the quiet of the night, his words linger like a beloved whisper, soothing my soul and filling my heart with comfort. He says my name in such soft loving whispers that send shivers down my spine. In his arms, I find my sanctuary, a warm embrace that shields me from the world. With him, we were the strongest. 

Unfortunately, he is just a wistful memory. I always find myself drifting back to the times we've shared. Those memories both warms me and leaves me yearning for him. I’ve always thought of the laughter we shared under the summer sky, the quiet whispers in the night, and the way his eyes would be shaped like a crescent moon when he smile.

I’ve always thought how I didn’t realize. How sudden everything about him seems so gray. He was so devoid of color, lost all of his brightness. When I finally saw, It was all too late wasn’t it? You’ve made up your mind. I couldn’t bring myself to hate you for it. 

Suguru. Do you know what a wistful memory is?

Here’s a brief definiton:

Wistful Memory, moments have become—bittersweet, tender, and ever so precious. They are the echoes of our love, lingering in my soul, reminding me of what we had, what we have, and what we will always carry with us.

When I saw your mind and body conquered by another when you have no control of it… Your soul still recognize me didn’t you? You were standing right before me, my brain and my eyes knew it was you. But my soul said otherwise. 

You were the best as much as you were the worst. You were the sweetest of dreams, wrapping me in bliss, and the most haunting of nightmares, killing my peace. You were my greatest joy and my deepest sorrow, the one who lifted me high above the clouds, only to let me fall into the abyss. You were everything good that ever happened to me, and everything that broke me, all at once.

As sick as it sounds, I loved you first. In the quiet corners of my soul, where no one dared to pursue, I loved you—long before the world made it seem wrong. It started long before the higher-ups told I had to execute you. And though it may never be understood, it was the first love, the truest love, that I ever knew. 

I was a dick, a habit to kick and age-old curse. Times I pushed you away, not because I didn’t care, but because I didn’t know how to show it. I’ve carried the weight of my own shortcomings, the scars of past mistakes. It’s not easy to break free from the patterns that have haunted me for so long. 

I tend to laugh whenever I’m sad, I stare at the crash it actually works. My laughter becomes a balm, soothing the wounds that losing you has carved. I gaze at the wreckage of my life, the chaos and the pain laid bare before me, and in that midst, I find a strange sort of solace. Laughter becomes my defiant cry against the darkness. Laughter has become the wall to guard my past, charmed with humor as people say. 

Making amends, this shit never ends. The quest for redemption feels like a relentless tide, washing over the shores of my regret, where every effort to amend seems to dissolve into an unending sea of resolution. It feels like rubbing salt into my wound every time I saw you. I couldn’t bare to do it when I first saw you, I don’t know if I regret it.

I’m wrong again. I was always wrong, seeing only shadows where there was light. As time unfolded, it got worse.  I’ve misread the map of your soul, casting shadows where light was meant to dwell. Your presence was my guiding star. My one and only best friend. 

Love is the the most twisted curse of all. I love you Suguru, I’m sorry.

a/n: my first fic here! english ain't my first language so don't be too harsh on me. i recommend reading this while listening to the song. i also saw an edit of them with this song in tiktok *chef's kiss* it's so good.

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

24th October >> Mass Readings (USA)

Thursday, Twenty Ninth Week in Ordinary Time 

or

Saint Antony Mary Claret, Bishop. 

Thursday, Twenty Ninth Week in Ordinary Time 

(Liturgical Colour: Green. Year: B(II))

First Reading Ephesians 3:14-21 Rooted and grounded in love, you may be filled with the fullness of God.

Brothers and sisters: I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that he may grant you in accord with the riches of his glory to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner self, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to accomplish far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us, to him be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 11-12, 18-19

R/ The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

Exult, you just, in the LORD; praise from the upright is fitting. Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises.

R/ The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

For upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full.

R/ The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

But the plan of the LORD stands forever; the design of his heart, through all generations. Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance.

R/ The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

But see, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine.

R/ The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

Gospel Acclamation Philippians 3:8-9

Alleluia, alleluia. I consider all things so much rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in him. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Luke 12:49-53 I have not come to establish peace but division.

Jesus said to his disciples: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

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

Saint Antony Mary Claret, Bishop 

(Liturgical Colour: White. Year: B(II))

(Readings for the memorial)

(There is a choice today between the readings for the ferial day (Thursday) and those for the memorial. The ferial readings are recommended unless pastoral reasons suggest otherwise)

First Reading Isaiah 52:7-10 All the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, Announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, and saying to Zion, “Your God is King!” Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry, together they shout for joy, For they see directly, before their eyes, the LORD restoring Zion. Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem! For the LORD comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem. The LORD has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; All the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 7-8, 10

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands. Sing to the LORD; bless his name.

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Announce his salvation, day after day. Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Give to the LORD, you families of nations, give to the LORD glory and praise; give to the LORD the glory due his name!

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Say among the nations: The LORD is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity.

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Gospel Acclamation Mark 1:17

Alleluia, alleluia. Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mark 1:14-20 I will make you fishers of men.

After John the Baptist had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the Gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they abandoned their nets and followed him. He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[fanficapologist]

Heyyy!! Fluff and joy indeed! I love how despite the ongoing tensions between them, Maera and Aemond had a bit of respite. I do think the tension won’t let up; not while Alys is there. And as Maera mentioned, Aemond seemed to become a different person around her. And I think it irks Maera because she realizes that Aemond trusts Alys’ visions blindly. I mean it could be that Aemond trusts Alys given his previous time at Harrenhal and the fact that she managed to turn the tides in their favor - like wiping out Maera’s kin. He probably thinks her power is absolute. Unlike Maera who probably has an inkling that her visions are possibilities therefore, not set in stone.

I think this tension between them would bubble over until it goes to a head and that will most likely be the last we see of Alys. Now, the question is, what is that event and how 🤔 For now, we have to endure those little barbs of audacity that Alys shows Maera.

Still, it is very satisfying to see Aemond get affected by Set Arryk. For all his talk of nothing is between him and Alys, I’m sure it’s not pleasant seeing your wife get comfortable with another man, even if he knows Maera is an honorable woman. Can’t say I feel bad for him. I’d like to think Maera also laid it on thick when Aemond saw them to piss him off. Though I doubt Maera has feelings for Ser Arryk, I’d like to think Ser Arryk feels protective of her like an older brother would. Or a dear friend you know is strictly platonic because they already feel like family.

I enjoyed reading their time in the God’s Eye. I think Aemond did it to get a reaction out of her, to lighten the mood. And they ended up getting surprised by the dragon egg!! I hope this is a good sign for them and their unborn child ☺️. It’s funny because I too am experiencing tension at home with a relative so it’s nice to see I’m not alone in that regard. Yeah, it sucks but it’s moments like these that make you think it’s not the end of the world, and you’ll be okay.

Okay, now that’s settled. I am ready for the next chapters 🙌🏻 hope you’re enjoying the week and wishing you a happy easter if you celebrate it!

P.S. can I just say I love it when I’m called pet names, I’m giggling like a school girl 😚 do you have a nickname I could call you by? Only if that’s fine with you and I hope this wasn’t too weird 😬🙇🏼‍♀️

Good afternoon! (Or at least it is where I’m at 🤣)

We’re gunna explore more about Alys and Aemond during the next POV which I’m excited to upload 👀

And Ser Arryk is just a bro 😎 and Aemond is insecure af 🤷🏻‍♀️

I’m glad you enjoyed it! I can see a few people getting annoyed in the comments about the fluffy chapter but like I said earlier, there is no divorce here! And she’s pregnant with his child, there is nowhere to go in this universe. As a married person myself, it is not a straight line, there are peaks and troughs, even during arguments!

P.S- you make a good point! I’m just some random person on the internet for now aren’t I 🤣 I’ll do a little introductory post and I’ll tag you 😘

[quoteablebooks]

Genre: Fiction, Adult, Magical Realism

Rating: 5 out of 5

Content Warning: Kidnapping, Gaslighting, Confinement, Death, Mental illness, Gun violence

Summary:

Piranesi’s house is no ordinary building: its rooms are infinite, its corridors endless, its walls are lined with thousands upon thousands of statues, each one different from all the others. Within the labyrinth of halls an ocean is imprisoned; waves thunder up staircases, rooms are flooded in an instant. But Piranesi is not afraid; he understands the tides as he understands the pattern of the labyrinth itself. He lives to explore the house.

There is one other person in the house—a man called The Other, who visits Piranesi twice a week and asks for help with research into A Great and Secret Knowledge. But as Piranesi explores, evidence emerges of another person, and a terrible truth begins to unravel, revealing a world beyond the one Piranesi has always known.

*Opinions*

This is the best book I have read in a while and definitely, the best book that I read this year. That being said, this is probably going to be a rather short review since I believe it is important to go into this novel knowing very little. The way this story unfolds and the reader learns about Piranesi and his world is truly a joy that I wouldn’t want to take from anyone. I know that it is hard to trust books that get super popular in internet spaces, I have been burned before, but this one deserves every word of praise that I have heard about it. 

Instead of doing a review, I think I want to give the general vibes because I can see this being a book that certain readers would not enjoy. I don’t know if I could even summarize the plot of this book in a way that could do it justice anyway. The storytelling has a fable-type quality to it and you have to be comfortable with being dropped into a world and not knowing what is going on. In fact, you get a good way into the novel before everything starts to make a bit more sense, but the writing loses its fable quality. This is a shorter novel and while I believe that it is fast-paced, again if you are uncomfortable without knowing what’s going on you are going to think that the beginning drags. There is no deep character analysis in this novel, and there are a lot of themes that are presented without being explored, but I think that is part of this novel’s charm. This is a very atmospheric novel and you come to love the rooms in the House the same way that Piranesi does. 

This is a five-star read and my favorite read so far this year (2024). I think that everyone should give this story a try, but understand that it might not be for everyone. It was very much for me, which is surprising because if you had explained the plot to me, I am not sure if I would picked it up. As I stated above, go into this story as blind as possible and let it wash over you like the Tides. 

**Content Warnings**

Kidnapping, Gaslighting, Confinement, Death, Mental illness, Gun violence        

[bibleversegarden]

God’s Anointing and Power in Our Lives

Mankind in a fallen, captive state, is incapable of rising to the high stature, high calling of God. Thanks be to God, for the anointing that removes burdens and breaks the yokes of sin, that keeps us bound.

God anointed Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him. (See Acts 10:38)

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified." (Isaiah 61:1-3)

At God's appointed time, "The Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil." (1 John 3:8)

Jesus who appeared in the flesh, and was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin, was able to resist the devil, and cast Him out of many, for He was full of the Holy Ghost and power. This Jesus, is calling disciples to Himself, to live holy lives, and to proclaim the good news of salvation in the earth, with signs and wonders following.

All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:18-20)

"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject to you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven."  (Luke 10:19-20)

In order to be effective ambassadors for Christ, we must be sanctified and consecrated vessels, reconciled to God, fruitful in every good work; bringing glory to His name.

"And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." (Romans 8:10-11)

"Do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit. (Ephesians 5:18)

"Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee." (2 Corinthians 1:21 and 22)

A Prayer:

All thanks and praise to God our Father, for Christ His Son: Prophet, Priest and King; for the blessing of the Holy Spirit, and the anointing that breaks the yokes, and sets us free; for the power to daily walk in the Spirit; for a new and living way; for an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, that doesn't fade away. Amen.

- A Walk In The Garden Devotions

Related Bible Readings:

In the Scriptures, God instructed Moses to make a holy anointing oil. (See Exodus 30:22-33 for its use and purpose.)

Luke 4:1-15; Luke 9:1-3; Luke 10:19 & 20; Acts Chapter 2; Isaiah 10:27; Matthew 11:28-30; Galatians Chapter 5; Colossians Chapter 1, 2, 3 and 4; Psalm 23, Jeremiah Chapter 1; Ephesians in its entirety; First Epistle of John 2:27-29; Acts Chapters 1 and 2; Romans Chapters 6 and 12; Hebrews 1:8 & 9; First Epistle of Peter in its entirety; Philippians Chapter 3; 2 Corinthians Chapter 5; Joel 2:28-32

[crowpricorn]

Picking all the pretty birdssss

🦅 🦉 🦜

thank you!! 💗 (Qs)

none of them are actually quotes but whole ass paragraphs🤷🏻 (and all from my wips rather than published fics!)

🦅 an angsty quote (something PAINFUL!! ouch ouch ouch!)

from blind wylan au :)

There were mediks just leaving the property as he arrived. He remembers the lump in his throat, the freezing anxiety clamming at his heart, the way his knees had given and he had fallen, crying, on the marble of the stairs. He remembers a hand on his shoulder and a man with an unreadable expression. "My son is gone," he had said. Before he could add anything, Jesper had ran away, brought by desperate steps in the place he loved most in the world — and that now gloomed over him like a threat.

🦉 a clever quote (something you're proud of!)

from my post canon / jesper character study (i forgot how much hidden gems it has! i need to get back to it asap)

It doesn't get easy to live under a skin that doesn't crawl, with blood rushing furious and thoughts rambling wild and tricking himself into thinking he is fine. It's all clearer now, like a sky empty of clouds, like still water untouched by mud. It's all clear and painful.

Without his lies, his jokes and his anger, the clouds he treaded around his scars, the mud he threw over his pain, he is all but bare.

He feels like a foal who is just learning to walk, unstable on shaky legs bigger than his body but still too fragile to hold him up.

🦜 a pretty quote (you like the prose, or symbolism, or it's poetic, or you just like how it feels/the word choice!)

from witch wylan au my beloved (I love most quotes here!!! it's my pride and joy!):

Now, in the comfort of his home, sea breeze caressing his face with fresh breaths of air, he lets the fatigue of the day roll by and welcomes the rest that night brings. Magic comes easier, at night, aided by the flow of the moon tides and the movement of the stars, adding power to the magic already flowing through his veins. He inhales and exhales, grateful for the scent of the almost ready soup and the lingering fragrance of all the herbs and spices in the tiny room. Tonight will be a good night, and he can already tell because he read it in his coffee cup, just a few hours before, and also because it's a new moon night. The sky will be dark and full of stars, but shy of the luminous presence of the moon. This is a night for resting, charging, flowing with the winds.

[childofchrist1983]

The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified. - Isaiah 61:1-3 KJV

This is the Bible passage that Jesus Christ read in the synagogue and declared that it pertained to Him. This is the beginning of a long list of what the Jewish leaders considered offenses worth having Him killed. They hated that He challenged their teachings. They objected to the people He surrounded Himself with, that He healed people on the Sabbath and called God Almighty His Father. They believed that He had blasphemed, declaring that He was the Son of God.

They really hated the fact that they were losing their power over the people. They knew that they were already on shaky ground with the Roman rule because they did not acknowledge the Emperor as a god. It was only because the Jewish people said that their God, Yeshua, was not of this world but in Heaven, that they were given the freedom to practice their faith. Jesus was threatening that as well. As far back as the early days of his ministry, John had sent emissaries to Jesus Christ to ask if He was the one or if they should look for another. At that time, Jesus sent them back to tell John what they had seen, "The blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them" (Luke 7:22, Matthew 11:2-6). Because of this and all the healings that did occur, the people were beginning to believe that He was in fact the promised and long-awaited Messiah. The leaders couldn't chance this.

As we approach this Holy Week, may we remember again all that He does and has done for us. May we always remember His words and actions and recommit ourselves to living lives that are worthy of Him and His selfless sacrifice. By the time we reach Friday, the plotting and planning will find its culmination in the crucifixion of Christ. May we take some time this week to read one of the Gospel's accounts of the Passion and meditate on it. Picture yourself at the foot of the cross and tell Jesus Christ how you feel about His sacrifice for you.

Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for His almighty power and saving grace. For He alone is able to save us, forgiving our sins and gifting us eternal salvation and entry into His Kingdom of Heaven. It warms my heart to experience the restful peace and presence of His Truth, light and love and to hear the delight and joy in song as He and all of Heaven celebrates my rescue, and it is with joy and thanksgiving that I raise my voice in praise, rejoicing and song to celebrate with Him, and all because of Him. May we all feel the same.

May we make sure that we give our hearts and lives to God and take time to seek and praise Him and share His Truth with the world daily. May the LORD our God and Father in Heaven help us to stay diligent and obedient and help us to guard our hearts in Him and His Holy Word daily. May He help us to remain faithful and full of excitement to do our duty to Him and for His glorious return and our reunion in Heaven as well as all that awaits us there. May we never forget to thank the LORD our God and our Creator and Father in Heaven for all this and everything He does and has done for us! May we never forget who He is, nor forget who we are in Christ and that God is always with us! What a mighty God we serve! What a Savior this is! What a wonderful Lord, God, Savior and King we have in Jesus Christ! What a loving Father we have found in Almighty God! What a wonderful God we serve! His will be done!

Thanks and glory be to God! Blessed be the name of the LORD! Hallelujah and Amen!

[catolinewsdailyreadings]

The Nativity of the Lord – Christmas - Mass During the Day

Readings of Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Reading 1

IS 52:7-10

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, and saying to Zion, "Your God is King!"

Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry, together they shout for joy, for they see directly, before their eyes, the LORD restoring Zion. Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem! For the LORD comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem. The LORD has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.

Responsorial Psalm

PS 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6.

R./ All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds; his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. R./ All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

The LORD has made his salvation known: in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice. He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel. R./ All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise. R./ All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Sing praise to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and melodious song. With trumpets and the sound of the horn sing joyfully before the King, the LORD. R./ All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Reading 2

HEB 1:1-6

Brothers and sisters: In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways  to our ancestors through the prophets;  in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son,  whom he made heir of all things  and through whom he created the universe, who is the refulgence of his glory, the very imprint of his being, and who sustains all things by his mighty word. When he had accomplished purification from sins, he took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high, as far superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

Gospel

JN 1:1-18 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.  All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. A man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony, to testify to the light,  so that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him.

But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God,  to those who believe in his name,  who were born not by natural generation  nor by human choice nor by a man's decision  but of God. And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth. John testified to him and cried out, saying,  "This was he of whom I said,  'The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me  because he existed before me.'" From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, because while the law was given through Moses,  grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. The only Son, God, who is at the Father's side,  has revealed him.

[ongolecharles]

DAILY SCRIPTURE READINGS (DSR) 📚 Group, Tue Dec 24th, 2024 ... The Nativity of the Lord, Year C (Christmas) ... Mass during the Day

Reading I

---------

Is 52:7-10

How beautiful upon the mountains

are the feet of him who brings glad tidings,

announcing peace, bearing good news,

announcing salvation, and saying to Zion,

“Your God is King!”

Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry,

together they shout for joy,

for they see directly, before their eyes,

the LORD restoring Zion.

Break out together in song,

O ruins of Jerusalem!

For the LORD comforts his people,

he redeems Jerusalem.

The LORD has bared his holy arm

in the sight of all the nations;

all the ends of the earth will behold

the salvation of our God.

Responsorial Psalm

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

Ps 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6.

R. (3c) All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Sing to the LORD a new song,

for he has done wondrous deeds;

his right hand has won victory for him,

his holy arm.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

The LORD has made his salvation known:

in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice.

He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness

toward the house of Israel.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

All the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation by our God.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;

break into song; sing praise.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Sing praise to the LORD with the harp,

with the harp and melodious song.

With trumpets and the sound of the horn

sing joyfully before the King, the LORD.

R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

Reading II

----------

Heb 1:1-6

Brothers and sisters:

In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways

to our ancestors through the prophets;

in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son,

whom he made heir of all things

and through whom he created the universe,

who is the refulgence of his glory,

the very imprint of his being,

and who sustains all things by his mighty word.

When he had accomplished purification from sins,

he took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

as far superior to the angels

as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

For to which of the angels did God ever say:

You are my son; this day I have begotten you?

Or again:

I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me?

And again, when he leads the firstborn into the world, he says:

Let all the angels of God worship him.

Alleluia

---------

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

A holy day has dawned upon us.

Come, you nations, and adore the Lord.

For today a great light has come upon the earth.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel

---------

Jn 1:1-18

In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

He was in the beginning with God.

All things came to be through him,

and without him nothing came to be.

What came to be through him was life,

and this life was the light of the human race;

the light shines in the darkness,

and the darkness has not overcome it.

A man named John was sent from God.

He came for testimony, to testify to the light,

so that all might believe through him.

He was not the light,

but came to testify to the light.

The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world,

and the world came to be through him,

but the world did not know him.

He came to what was his own,

but his own people did not accept him.

But to those who did accept him

he gave power to become children of God,

to those who believe in his name,

who were born not by natural generation

nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision

but of God.

And the Word became flesh

and made his dwelling among us,

and we saw his glory,

the glory as of the Father’s only Son,

full of grace and truth.

John testified to him and cried out, saying,

“This was he of whom I said,

‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me

because he existed before me.’”

From his fullness we have all received,

grace in place of grace,

because while the law was given through Moses,

grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

No one has ever seen God.

The only Son, God, who is at the Father’s side,

has revealed him.

OR:

------

Jn 1:1-5, 9-14

In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

He was in the beginning with God.

All things came to be through him,

and without him nothing came to be.

What came to be through him was life,

and this life was the light of the human race;

the light shines in the darkness,

and the darkness has not overcome it.

The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world,

and the world came to be through him,

but the world did not know him.

He came to what was his own,

but his own people did not accept him.

But to those who did accept him

he gave power to become children of God,

to those who believe in his name,

who were born not by natural generation

nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision

but of God.

And the Word became flesh

and made his dwelling among us,

and we saw his glory,

the glory as of the Father’s only Son,

full of grace and truth.

***

FOCUS AND LITURGY OF THE WORD

Emmanuel.

God, You are with us, in the thick of our reality –

              The joys, the sorrows, the seemingly mundane, the all of it.

You saw us, the beloved work of Your hands, in need,

              And You came to be among us.

You, the Infinite One, came as an infant,

              A human, entirely dependent.

You came entrusted to Mary and to Joseph, two humble servants of God.

You came, a Light in the darkness, in the most unexpected of guises in the most lowly of circumstances.

The Prince of Peace laid in a manger.

You remind us that the way is through humility, community, love.

In Your coming among us this day, let the glory, praise and honor we render You overflow our lives.

Continue to fashion us, we pray, as

bearers of the Light,

harbingers of hope,

heralders of the Good News,

a people of humility, of love, and of peace,

a people You recognize and claim as Your own.

All glory and praise to You, God with us, this day and all days. Amen.

***

【Build your Faith in Christ Jesus on #dailyscripturereadingsgroup 📚: +256 751 540 524 .. Whatsapp】

[johnhardinsawyer]

Tidings of Comfort and Joy

John Sawyer

Bedford Presbyterian Church

12 / 10 / 23 – Second Sunday in Advent

Luke 1:24-45

Isaiah 40:1-11

“Tidings of Comfort and Joy”

(Thank God, We’re Not Alone)

Well, it’s official:  the Oxford English Dictionary word of the year for 2023 is “rizz.”[1]  And, it’s official:  as soon as I learned this very important news, I took a moment to feel just a little bit old, and I went to look up the meaning of the word “rizz.”  I get the feeling I’m not the only one who had to do this, though.  In fact, when I typed “rizz” (spelled r-i-z-z) into Google, one of the first automatic suggestions for my search was “rizz meaning.”  So many people had to look up the meaning of “rizz” – which is short for “charisma” that the Artificial Intelligence computer programming at Google predicted that I also needed to look up the meaning of “rizz.”  Thank God, I’m not alone.  And, thanks, AI. . . ?!  

Actually, it’s official:  I’m not too sure what to think about AI – Artificial Intelligence.  By the way, according to the Collins English Dictionary (which is different from the Oxford English Dictionary), “AI” is the word of the year for 2023.  Apparently, it’s official:  Depending upon who you ask, there are multiple words of the year. Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2023 is “authentic,” [2] which makes sense. 

Thanks to the rise of “AI,” we have to pay special attention to make sure that the things we are seeing, and hearing, and reading are actually “authentic,” or if they are so-called “deep fakes,” or something else.  I heard an interview recently in which an MIT-trained expert on AI said that Artificial Intelligence in 2023 is at a stage similar to when cars were invented but there weren’t any drivers licenses, or safety checks, or roads that were paved.[3]  What does all of this mean for us?  I’m not sure.  And maybe you’re not sure, either.  Thank God, we have each other.  Thank God, we’re not alone.  

Even though we live in an age in which loneliness has been declared a mental health epidemic, and that a lack of connection “can increase the risk for premature death to levels comparable with smoking fifteen cigarettes [nearly a pack] a day,”[4] and even though the quality of our authentic human connections seems to be at an all-time-low as a society, I’ll say it again:  thank God, we’re not alone.  

To be human is to be in need of authentic connections with other humans.  We see this in the early pages of the Bible, when God sees that Adam needs a companion.  “It is not good that [he] should be alone,” God says. (Genesis 2:18)  This is so true.  When it comes to needing one another, we are not alone.  And, it might sound strange, but for me there is no small comfort in knowing that we are not alone in needing authentic connections with one another.

One of the most lovely, authentically spiritual and human connections that I find in scripture is the story of Mary and Elizabeth in today’s first reading from the Gospel of Luke.  Here are two women who have heard – via an angelic messenger named Gabriel – that they are going to each have a baby.  As we heard last week, Elizabeth is “getting on in years,” which is one way of saying that she is thought of as being too old to bear children.  So, for Elizabeth to give birth at an advanced age would be, by all accounts, a miraculous occurrence.  And, as we heard this morning, Mary is not married yet and is still a virgin, which is one way of saying that for her to have a baby would also be some kind of miraculous occurrence.

Now, there are some people who might get all caught up in the validity of such a story – whether a geriatric or a virgin birth is possible or not.  All we know is that when Mary asks about this, she is told by the angel, “Nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)

And so, as today’s story goes – for these two women – the impossible becomes possible.  In some ways, I imagine that, among her friends and neighbors, Elizabeth’s later-than-normal pregnancy probably seemed more miraculous and less problematic than Mary’s.  In the Gospel of Matthew, we see Mary’s fiancé, Joseph, more than a little worried about the scandal of being engaged an unwed pregnant girl, but after an angelic encounter of his own, Joseph stays with Mary – God, bless him!  Oh, how I imagine people talked in the town of Nazareth as Mary’s belly started to swell.  Perhaps this is one reason why she travels south, to the home of Elizabeth for three months.[5]  But I also imagine Mary has another reason:  Elizabeth is the only other woman that Mary knows who is so uniquely – divinely, angelically, miraculously – “with-child.”  Thank God, Mary and Elizabeth have one another.  Thank God they are not alone in all of this!  

This is one of the reasons why scripture recounts the joy between these two amazing women when they greet one another.  In today’s passage, we find one of the most beautiful images in all of scripture.  “. . . when Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb.  And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. . .” (Luke 1:41)

The baby in Elizabeth’s womb – the future John the Baptist – is so excited to be in close proximity to the baby in Mary’s womb – the future Jesus of Nazareth – that Elizabeth’s baby does an in utero back flip of joy.  Oh, if you and I would only be people who leap for joy whenever and wherever we encounter Jesus.  The world would be that much more joyful.  

I think it’s very interesting. . . when Elizabeth feels the baby in her womb leap for joy to be in the presence of Mary and Jesus, the text tells us that Elizabeth is “filled with the Holy Spirit.”  Even though it is not specifically used in today’s reading, there is a word from the original Greek language that captures – in part – the joyful gift of grace that Elizabeth experiences.  Believe it or not, that word is charisma.  That’s right, it’s official: Elizabeth has “rizz” – the 2023 word of the year.  Of course, in 2023, the word means “style, charm, or attractiveness,” but originally, the word means “a gift of grace.”  And there must have been something attractive about Elizabeth’s joy – a joy she shares with Mary, and – all these years later – with us.  This joy can be wonderfully contagious.  It is definitely contagious in Luke, Chapter 1.  But not all of life is full of contagious, Holy, gracious joy.

This Fall, as we have made our way through the Narrative Lectionary, we have been tracing the history of God’s people from the very beginning, through wilderness wanderings and times of prophets and kings.  There have been some triumphant and powerful moments for God and God’s people, but in recent weeks, we have touched on some difficult times.  You might remember that just last week, we spent some time with the prophet Jeremiah as he awaited the destruction of his city – the city of Jerusalem – by the Babylonians.  

In today’s reading from Isaiah, the surviving people of Jerusalem have been taken into captivity in Babylon, where they will live for a generation.  Some of the saddest passages in the Hebrew Bible were written during this period of time.  And yet, in Isaiah, Chapter 40, in the middle of this season of suffering and grief comes a message of comfort.  

“Take comfort, my people. . .  this season of sadness is coming to an end.  A voice cries out in the wilderness of our suffering, ‘God is on the way!’ – traveling toward us on a straight and level highway – and God’s glory will be revealed.  Human beings are temporary – our lives are fleeting in the big scheme of things, but God’s good news for us is forever.  God is on the way and will gather us together in a Holy embrace – gathering us and feeding us like a shepherd cares for helpless sheep.”[6]

God is on the way.  This is good news, not just in the season of Advent, but in every season.  This is good news that is meant to give us some comfort and joy and peace when we need it the most. . . in the wilderness times and spaces of our lives.  Do you need some good news today?  I know that I do.  

Take comfort in the good news that God is on the way.  Take comfort in the good news that you and I are not alone.  Take comfort that the Holy Spirit is always offering us the gift and blessing – the charisma – of faith, to trust this good news to be true.

I do feel I need to say that many of us who read these ancient words of comfort and hope from Isaiah can’t help but hear the beautiful and familiar strains of Handel’s Messiah:  “Comfort ye, my people. . . Every valley shall be exalted. . . And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together. . . He will feed his flock like a shepherd. . .”  This is good stuff – worth setting to music and singing about.

It would also be good for us to note that when we read, “A voice cries out:  ‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord,’” (Isaiah 40:3) this is exactly what that in utero backflipping baby who will one day become John the Baptist ends up doing.  He goes out into the wilderness and cries out:  “prepare the way of the Lord.”  “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me. . . I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”  (Mark 1:7-8). Would John the Baptist ever say, “God’s rizz will be given to you. . . ?”  I don’t know. . .  

What I do know is this:  Friends, take comfort.  Hear this good news:  There is nothing artificial about God’s authentic grace.  It’s official:  God, in God’s own gracious and divine intelligence, has come into the world.  We are not alone.  You are not alone.  May we welcome this good news and share it with joy.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.  

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[1] https://www.npr.org/2023/12/04/1216950808/rizz-oxford-word-of-the-year-swiftie.

[2] https://www.longmontleader.com/local-news/beyond-local-merriam-websters-word-of-the-year-authentic-reflects-growing-concerns-over-ais-ability-to-deceive-and-dehumanize-7894307#:~:text=In%20a%20lexicographic%20form%20of,provided%20by%20generative%20AI%20programs..

[3] https://www.npr.org/2023/11/28/1197958913/fresh-air-draft-11-28-2023.

[4] https://www.npr.org/2023/05/02/1173418268/loneliness-connection-mental-health-dementia-surgeon-general.

[5] See Luke 1:56.

[6] Isaiah 40:1-11 – Paraphrased, JHS.

[grande-bay-resort-spa]

5 reasons why you should take a mini break on the ECR

ECR-The sound of it wakes you up from a slumber and rekindles fond memories of unforgettable family vacations. For some, it stands for Easy, Comfortable, Relaxation.For others, it is a holiday within city limits. The idyllic beach setting sets the tide in favour of ECR being the most popular destination for an impromptu weekend getaway. If you’re wondering how to plan a trip with toddlers, friends, family and everything in between, you can’t find a better place than ECR, Good things come in small packages and sodo vacations! Read on to find out why you should bundle your family into a car and head to ECR on the next long weekend.

Drive to thrive

For all those motor enthusiasts who think they have to wait past midnight to quench their need for speed, think again. A scenic drive awaits you during the daytime along the ECR. The entire ECR stretch is paved with smooth, wide roads that make driving a joy. What’s more, these long drives while listening to your favourite tracks can increase your happy hormone, serotonin. This way, you can bust your stress before you even get to the resort! Sojust load up on petrol and get on with your patrol.

Spayurvedaand deep tissue massages

Your body’s been sending out franticsigns that it’s time for a weekend getaway. Your dark circles are increasing while your grey matter is doing the exact opposite. Before someone cries out “What’s the matter?”– book a spa session at your favourite resort in ECR.A relaxing day at the spa could be just what the doctor ordered to put right back what the city and late nights have mercilessly extorted from you. Our spa at Grande Bay offers oil massages from around the world such as Bali Aromatherapy and Swedish massage.

An oil massage usually requires 3-4 hours for the oil to seep through all your layers of skin to make it baby soft again.During weeknights, you cannot fully enjoy these nuanced benefits as youare pressed for time. But with a mini-break at a resort on the ECR,you have all the time in the world to slip into a cozy slumber as your muscles are stretched and loosened up.

Activities for the whole family

ECR offers a range of smart holiday options which cater to a whole variety of interests.From family reunions to planning for amazing girls’ weekends, ECR is the perfect destination. You can just loll by the beach and take in the morning sun or break into a jog to burn off the previous night’s seafood binge. You can even hire a bicycle to pedal your way to the nearby areas and check out their way of life. Sip tea in a shack just like the locals and soak in the memories as you cradle the piping tea served in earthen cups. During the evenings after you wake upfrom an invigorating afternoon snooze, you can take a walk along the sea as you watch the sun retire for the day. You can even collect seashells as keepsakes or wade into the cold water. There are so many fun activities to enjoy at Grande Bay Resort; we guarantee you will never have a dull moment! Some of the best holidays are the ones where you did not exert yourself, but came back feeling like a new person.

Save on travel time and excess packing

ECR being along the city’s eastern fringe is a blessing for everyone looking to take a quick mini-break! You are saved from the hassle of dealing with long travel times and flight bookings. You needn’t worry about taking yourmothballed woolens out of storage or forgetting your extra pair of socks. Since your mini-break is within the resort,all you need are a few smart casuals and maybe a pair of formals just in case the situation presents itself.

Binge on seafood

The assortment of cuisines on offer at resorts and getaways in ECR are enough to make you come back well-fed and satiated. At ECR, you can find the most delectable seafood in the whole city, with fresh catch brought straight from the ocean to your table. If your favourite kinds of food live underwater, then ECR is the best place to indulge your foodie dreams. If you’re staying at Grande Bay Resort, don’t forget to book a table at our highly-acclaimed restaurant, L’Attitude 49. Ask us for our Catch of the Day so we can cook it to order!

At ECR, you can finally take your much-awaited beach holiday. A luxurious resort set in the midst of breathtaking oceanic surroundings can melt anyone’s stress away. If you’re planning a weekend trip to ECR, book your stay at Grande Bay Resort and Spa. Our little slice of heaven is sure to delight every member of your family.

[focr]

WHAT HE IS AUTHORIZED TO DO!

God says of Him; “I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles” (v. 1b).

Now; look at those words, “I have put My Spirit upon Him …” When we read this, we might naturally think of the story of His baptism by John the Baptist. In Luke 3 we’re told,

When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You, I am well pleased” (Luke 3:21-22).

John the Baptist witnessed this. He said that because of this, he knew—without question��that Jesus was the Son of God. But God’s words here in Isaiah 42 are meant to be more than a prediction of what would happen later at Jesus’ baptism. In saying He would put His Spirit upon Jesus, the Father is telling us that He will anoint Jesus and authorize Him to be One who will meet our need for a just and righteous Ruler. In Isaiah 61:1-3, the Lord Jesus prophetically speaks and says;

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified” (Isaiah 61:1-3).

The Lord Jesus once quoted those very words in the synagogue to the people of His hometown of Nazareth; and declared that—that very day—they were fulfilled in their hearing.

And notice what God the Father says this authorized Servant would do. He will do what no other ruler has ever been able to do. “He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles”—that is to say, to the nations. Three times in this passage, the word “justice” appears. The bringing about of justice in this world is what we’re told God’s Servant is authorized by Him to do for us.

Oh; how we need justice! True justice for all! And Jesus is the One God has authorized to bring it about for us when He rules upon this earth.

~ Bethany Bible Church

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

24th October >> Mass Readings (USA)

Tuesday, Twenty Ninth Wee in Ordinary Time 

or

Saint Antony Mary Claret, Bishop.

(Liturgical Colour: Green: A (1))

First Reading Romans 5:12, 15b, 17-19, 20b-21 If by the transgressions of one person death came to reign, how much more will those who receive grace come to reign in life.

Brothers and sisters: Through one man sin entered the world, and through sin, death, and thus death came to all men, inasmuch as all sinned.

If by that one person’s transgression the many died, how much more did the grace of God and the gracious gift of the one man Jesus Christ overflow for the many. For if, by the transgression of the one, death came to reign through that one, how much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the gift of justification come to reign in life through the one Jesus Christ. In conclusion, just as through one transgression condemnation came upon all, so, through one righteous act acquittal and life came to all. For just as through the disobedience of one man the many were made sinners, so, through the obedience of the one the many will be made righteous. Where sin increased, grace overflowed all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through justification for eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17

R/ Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

Sacrifice or oblation you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me. Burnt offerings or sin-offerings you sought not; then said I, “Behold I come.”

R/ Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

“In the written scroll it is prescribed for me, To do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart!”

R/ Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

I announced your justice in the vast assembly; I did not restrain my lips, as you, O LORD, know.

R/ Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

May all who seek you exult and be glad in you, And may those who love your salvation say ever, “The LORD be glorified.”

R/ Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

Gospel Acclamation Luke 21:36

Alleluia, alleluia. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Luke 12:35-38 Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.

Jesus said to his disciples: “Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants.”

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

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

Saint Antony Mary Claret, Bishop 

(Liturgical Colour: White: A (1))

(Readings for the memorial)

(There is a choice today between the readings for the ferial day (Tuesday) and those for the memorial. The ferial readings are recommended unless pastoral reasons suggest otherwise)

First Reading Isaiah 52:7-10 All the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, Announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, and saying to Zion, “Your God is King!” Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry, together they shout for joy, For they see directly, before their eyes, the LORD restoring Zion. Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem! For the LORD comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem. The LORD has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; All the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 7-8, 10

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands. Sing to the LORD; bless his name.

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Announce his salvation, day after day. Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Give to the LORD, you families of nations, give to the LORD glory and praise; give to the LORD the glory due his name!

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Say among the nations: The LORD is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity.

R/ Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Gospel Acclamation Mark 1:17

Alleluia, alleluia. Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mark 1:14-20 I will make you fishers of men.

After John the Baptist had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the Gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they abandoned their nets and followed him. He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[sitp-recs]

Hidden Gems by @blamebrampton

Anyone who’s been following me for a while knows I worship the ground BB walks on. She’s probably among my top 3 Drarry fic authors of all time and I can confidently say I’ve read her catalogue in its entirety but curiously enough, I still get the same thrill of joy and excitement revisiting her works once twice thrice a month. BB’s narrative is very unique with nuanced and refreshing characterization, and organic witty humour playing in an effective, effortlessly charming and clever way that feels magical. It creates immersive universes and atmospheres that invite you to lose yourself into, different from anything I’ve read before or since. Beyond the incredible world building, her dialogue is a thing of beauty in itself, delightful and brilliant, packing just enough emotional resonance to make you wanna scream after a particularly clever line. It makes my job to find a quote for my recs so much more challenging! The feeling of first exploring BB’s world is exquisite and her masterful characterization never fail to impress me, it’s truly genius.

It was almost impossible to make a short list of hidden gems and it hurt my soul to stray from so many personal faves since they’re a bit more popular. But I’m sticking to the rules and that means highlighting fics that could use more attention. Words usually fail me when I’m trying to convey how much I love certain fics so feel free to check the single recs I’ve linked below - if you’re willing to suffer through my rambling thoughts, that is! I’m sure I’ve recced most of her catalogue at this point. And please please go check it ASAP, if you haven’t yet. These fics have stayed with me for many years now, they helped me through dark days and still comfort my heart whenever I need solace in fandom, I can’t imagine letting go of them anytime soon. I think of them now, 10 years after they’ve been written, and I’ll be thinking of them for the next 10 years. If you’re having one of those days - or just looking for a new obsession a special, one-of-a-kind reading experience - you can’t pick a better author. Go check these right now then come into my DMs to scream about Little Red Courgette all of them! You’re welcome 😉

And Save Me From Bloody Men (2010, T, 10k) - the only war AU you’ll ever need to read, a true masterpiece of characterization and building tension with tender Drarry romance, badass redeemed Draco and a breathtaking open ending that will make you gasp out loud. A must read!

Draco Malfoy once watched others fighting to stop the world falling apart. This time, he's not just watching. Read my rec here.

Tidings of Comfort (2012, G, 10k) - this cathartic series is on my top 3 fave comfort fics, beautifully quiet and cathartic. Featuring a redeemed Draco and a gentle curious Harry, late night conversations and

When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life. Luckily for Draco Malfoy, London has places where the tired can rest and recover. Read my rec here.

Of Hoof Picks, Centaurs and Flight (2012, G, 21k) - such a charming and fun adventure, I can’t get enough of it! Perfect Draco, lots of banter, centaurs, flying cars and the good old bed sharing trope 👌🏼

Harry has promised that he will not do anything to upset the new head of Magical Creatures. Even if it is Draco Malfoy. When three centaur foals appear in Cumbria, far from the Forbidden Forest and all too close to Muggles, Harry’s promise is thoroughly tested. To say nothing of his equestrian skills. Read my rec here.

For the Public Good (2008, T, 23k) - a brilliant satire of British politics and definitely a must-read if you’re into this genre. BB gets Draco’s snark just right and the banter is fabulous, not to mention the creative world building as per usual. Fun, smart, flirty, highly entertaining!

Harry is loaned to the Muggle government to assist relations between the two governments after the London bombings. When his counterpart in the Communications team comes to him with evidence of a plot to expose wizarding Britain, he is all ears. And only in part because the messenger has such a familiar voice.

Doing the Lambeth Walk (2012, T, 26k) - brilliant urban drama with fabulous world building, soft Draco and Harry doing good deeds and finding each other, slow burn, some family drama and non-graphic violence

There are only three traditional choices for the cashed-up hero after victory. Harry Potter is too young to settle down and provide the wizarding world with a happy ending, and has too acute a sense of humour to spiral downwards into a spectacular flame-out. That leaves a life of good works. Choosing to lead it in Muggle Brixton comes with its own set of challenges, including Malfoys in the biscuit aisle. Read my rec here.

Beneath Boundless Skies (2008, T, 29k) - imho this fic is a the testament to BB’s storytelling skills as it will make you laugh, cry and fall in love within minutes. What a rollercoaster of emotions! Set in the Australian landscape it delivers brilliant OCs, organic character dynamics, and the most touching, heart wrenching funeral scene. A gorgeous and poignant post-war recovery story.

Home is a world filled with funerals, a girlfriend who can't bear the sight of you, and people who are convinced you came back from the dead. Bugger it, even Australia sounds good.

The Consolations of a Summer's Day (2012, T, 32k) - this is such a delightful and well put together case fic, I adore Harry and Draco’s dynamics right from the start and how circumstances push them closer. Subtle romance, alternating POVs, a perfect Luna and a hilarious Kreacher as a treat! Cw: character death (Pansy)

Harry Potter is absolutely certain Draco Malfoy did not murder Pansy Parkinson. He’s almost absolutely certain he can prove this without sacrificing his career and having them both hauled up before the Wizengamot.