#the theater echoed with thunderous applause and cheers

[workathomemom13]

Furiosa’ Fires Up Cannes With 6-Minute Standing Ovation for Anya Taylor-Joy and Teary Chris Hemsworth

In a remarkable display of cinematic fervor, "Furiosa" ignited the Cannes Film Festival with an electrifying premiere that left audiences in awe and admiration. As the highly anticipated prequel to George Miller's iconic "Mad Max" series, "Furiosa" has been the subject of much anticipation and speculation. However, its unveiling at Cannes exceeded even the loftiest of expectations, earning a thunderous six-minute standing ovation and moving its stars, Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, to tears.

The film, directed by George Miller and starring Taylor-Joy as the eponymous Furiosa and Hemsworth in a yet undisclosed role, promises to delve deep into the backstory of one of cinema's most enigmatic and beloved characters. Set in the dystopian world of the Wasteland, "Furiosa" takes audiences on a thrilling journey through a harsh and unforgiving landscape, where survival is a constant struggle and hope is a rare commodity.

The Cannes premiere offered a tantalizing glimpse into the world of "Furiosa," showcasing its breathtaking visuals, adrenaline-pumping action sequences, and gripping emotional depth. From the moment the lights dimmed and the opening credits rolled, it was clear that audiences were in for a cinematic experience unlike any other.

Anya Taylor-Joy's portrayal of Furiosa captivated audiences, with her fierce determination and steely resolve bringing the character to life in vivid detail. Taylor-Joy's performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, showcasing her range as an actress and solidifying her status as one of Hollywood's brightest talents.

Equally impressive was Chris Hemsworth's performance, which reportedly left the actor visibly moved during the film's emotional climax. While details about Hemsworth's character remain shrouded in mystery, his presence on screen was undeniable, adding depth and complexity to the film's narrative.

But perhaps the most unforgettable moment of the evening came during the film's conclusion, when the credits began to roll and the audience rose to their feet in a spontaneous display of appreciation and admiration. For six minutes, the theater echoed with thunderous applause and cheers, a testament to the film's undeniable impact and the talent of its cast and crew.

As the applause finally subsided and the lights came back on, it was clear that "Furiosa" had left an indelible mark on the Cannes Film Festival and the hearts of all who had the privilege of witnessing its premiere. With its captivating story, stunning visuals, and powerhouse performances, "Furiosa" has set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable cinematic journey, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on audiences around the world.

[insomniac-jay]

Performance of a Lifetime [MusicBelle]

Belle Holiday's performance is interrupted by an uninvited guest.

AKA Jay tries to write singing in word form

"I put a spell on you because you're mine." Belle sang, slowly danced to the piano like there was an invisible partner gliding along to her movements.

Her jewels glimmered in the color changing lights, creating an even more dazzling show. Belle's outfit was equally as angelic as she was, and even more so once she pulled out her fans. It was her last performance of the night, after all. Why not go all out?

"Stop the things you do, watch out, I ain't lying." Belle swayed and rolled her hips. "I can't stand no runnin' around. I can't stand no puttin' me down."

"I put a spell on you because you're mine, oh yeah!"

Both Belle and the audience looked to see the theater doors thrown open.

A tall, redheaded man made his way down the aisle, singing along to the song. His eyes were obscured by a pair of glasses with a quaver. The thing that caught Belle's attention the most was the gap in his teeth.

That's cute, she thought to herself. "Who are you?"

"I'm the Music Meister," the man sang. "And you are all my pawns."

The crowd went from confusion and shock to obedience--eyes glowing green. They lost all emotion in their faces and began to sing along with him.

"He's the Music Meister!"

"As I regale you with my story, know you have no choice but to do my bidding when you hear this booming voice!"

However, Belle's face stayed exactly the same. While she found his voice alluring, she wasn't affected like the pianist and her audience were. The Music Meister must've taken notice of this since he looked confused.

"And what of you, my angel of music?"

Belle furrowed her eyebrows. "I don't appreciate you crashing my show and hypnotizing my patrons."

Music Meister's eyes widened in shock. For such a calm lady, her voice was firm and icy. Then, an idea came to his head.

"Then sing with me and I promise no harm will come to them."

The pianist played the pipe organ as Music Meister and Belle stood across from each other. She recognized the tune as the song to Phantom of the Opera.

"In sleep he sang to me, in dreams he came. A voice that calls to me, and speaks my name," Belle sang as she danced to the music. "And do I dream again? For now I find the Phantom of the Opera is there inside my mind."

Meister belted, "Sing once again with me, our strange duet. My power over you grows strong again. And though you turn from me to glance behind, the Phantom of the Opera is there inside your mind."

Belle slightly yelped as he pulled her close to him. Though he easily towered over her, he touched her gently like she was made of glass.

"Those who have seen your face draw back in fear. I am the mask you wear."

"It's me they hear."

"My spirit and your voice in one combined," they sang in unison, slow dancing to the song. "The Phantom of the Opera is there inside my mind."

The crowd joined in, "The Phantom of the Opera. The Phantom of the Opera."

Belle was mesmerized until Meister whispered in her ear, "Time to shine, doll."

Slightly embarrassed by the nickname, Belle began singing the high notes of Christine's part. Her singing must've impressed the musical intruder.

"Sing, my angel of music."

Belle sang higher.

"Sing, angel, sing for me."

She went higher.

"Sing, my angel! Sing for me!"

Belle reached deep into her chords and did the highest note she could. Her voice echoed throughout the theater, breaking Music Meister's hypnosis on the audience. Before Belle could react, thunderous applause and cheers and whistles roared.

"Thank you! Thank you!" Music Meister bowed.

Belle bowed as well, since she might as well go along with the act. Roses even found their way onto the stage. Hopefully she'd be able to play it off as a surprise guest or a fan.

"How'd you resist?" Music Meister whispered. "I've never had anyone do that."

"I lost almost half of my hearing in a car accident," Belle explained. "I can still hear things pretty well, but nothing too soft or hard."

Music Meister hummed. But for some reason, he couldn't be mad at this woman. Instead, he found her and her voice fascinating. He'd have to come to this theater more often.

"May I know your name?"

Belle swore he sounded Cajun in his speaking voice, but today was already weird enough. "Belle. Belle Holiday."

"Your real name, chere."

Just as I suspected. "Why? You gonna tell the cops?"

Music Meister chuckled slightly. "No. I want to remember you...and maybe come see you again."

Belle leaned in towards his ear and whispered, "Christine. Christine Bennett."

"Well then, Miss Holiday," Music Meister tipped his hat. "I'll be seeing you again very soon." He then disappeared.

A small smile curled Belle's lips. Even if she was still pissed that her show was interrupted, she couldn't deny she had fun. Not to mention she found Music Meister's gap tooth cute.

Maybe I will.

@floof-ghostie @calciumcryptid @jasontoddssuper @honeysgalaxy

[babbushka]

Magician!Kylo?!? This could be set any time, but I picture it in the Victorian era where occultism is high! Tall, dark, very dark, handsome, definitely mysterious and can hypnotize you with a touch or a glance! Fog, firelight, darkness, decadence, horse drawn carriage sex lol. Lots of possibilities! I hope you love this idea as much as I would love to be his on stage assistant! Thank you for all your wonderful writing!!!

(1.4k, mentions of mild gore in the magic act)

Oil lamps flicker and flare along the damp street lamps, as boots and heels scuff cobblestone. Horses whinny in the rain, chuff and neigh as their masters urge them down the streets, down down down towards the theater, the only bright attraction in this dull corner of London.

The line moves quickly as thunder cracks, as lightning illuminates the inky black alleys, as working class people on their night off shuffle into the theater. Sixpence was an easy price to pay, and nearly all could afford it – and nearly all did, and nearly all showed up, waited with bated breath for admission, waited to see him.

Kylo Ren the Incredible, the Magical, the Great.

The crowd murmurs in their seats, just beyond the red velvet drapes. They are thick and lined with fringe of gold, that had been your choice, your request. Nothing spoke of an enchanting beginning to an extraordinary evening, than velvet drapes. It is a full house, this evening showing sold out, and quiet excitement thrills you as you twist and stretch in your outfit.

Kylo is at your throat, as he always tends to be. His white gloves grasping at your breast, as he sucks a mark just below your ear, hums into your pulse. You grin, he’s excited about this show, has a new act, has a new means to dazzle and amaze – and tonight is its debut.

“The show begins soon,” You warn, doing nothing to dissuade him from ravishing you, “Darling you must go to your mark.”

“In a moment, I’ll go in a moment.” He murmurs, making you laugh enough that you must stifle the sound of it, for the music is dying down. When the music ends, the show begins, and truly, Kylo must get to his mark.

Yet he still buries his face into your tits, takes a deep breath of the sweet powdered perfume you laid there, makes you smile. The scar which splits his face shines in the low lamp-light, before he is nothing more than a puff of smoke, making you roll your eyes once again. You’re immune to his charms, you know all his tricks. Or do you?

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Kylo’s voice surrounds the theater, and the crowd goes deathly still as they try to pinpoint how who what where why – “I welcome you, to our show.”

The curtains open to an empty stage, although it only remains empty for a moment, only for an instant, before sparks fly from the floor and when the fireworks have settled there he is, there is your Kylo. The crowd gasps, and you can see from just beyond the wings of the stage, that Kylo quirks a grin.

For an hour he dazzles them, card tricks and illusions that get them enchanted, get them entranced. Kylo pulls coins from the ears of small children in the audience and makes them laugh, gives the coins to the children whom Kylo knows have never held one of such worth before. He pulls doves from his top hat, materializes eggs and ribbons from thin air, and you sit in the wings and enjoy the way that the crowd oos and ahhs, for surely such feats are impossible. 

But then, then it is time for this new trick, then it is time for you.

He introduces you to the stage, and the crowd sits up a little straighter in their seats, watches as your fishnet clad legs stalk across to where Kylo stands at center stage. You push out a great big box on wheels, and the crowd gasps, because what could possibly be inside?

“Marvelous, isn’t she? My beautiful wife.” Kylo says, so softly that almost no one can hear it, says it just for you. He turns to the audience then as you set up the act, as you open the box and reveal that there is nothing inside. “You know my good people, sometimes I think she’s so incredible, I wish I could have two of her.”

You smile, before climbing into the box, waving to the audience before Kylo closes the box onto you, so that only your head and legs are exposed.

“In fact, tonight I think I just might get my wish.” Kylo says, as he spins the box around to show the audience that there are no strings to this trick.

Your heart pounds, you hope it works, you hope the illusion is a success.

The audience gasps when Kylo pulls out a great big saw – cartoonish almost, in its size and shape. The saw’s teeth are razor sharp, or so they appear. The audience doesn’t know, they are on the edge of their seats.

Kylo opens the door of the boxes so your body is visible through the little glass windows, and somewhere out in the theater, a child asks if you’re going to be alright. He then closes the doors, and begins to saw through you, begins to hack into your body.

You scream, deliciously and loud, as the crack snap pop of your flesh and bone make the audience cover their eyes, their ears, their mouths. Kylo grins like a maniac, like some unhinged monster, as he saws into you, all the way through to the very bottom.

“Do you think we got her?” Kylo asks the audience as he removes the saw, “I’m not so sure.”

He inserts more blades through the center of the box, by now the crowd is shouting, hollering, demanding to know what he thinks he’s doing. You try not to laugh at their rage on your behalf.

He pushes apart the two halves of the box, wheels them each around so that the audience can see you are fully cut in half, contained in each section. 

Your legs kick on one end of the stage, your body writhes on the other. There are shocked gasps, children standing up to get a better look only for their parents to yank them back down into their seat again, as Kylo spins the two halves of your body independently. 

“Kylo!” You shout, mock-angry and not in any pain at all, “Kylo put me back together this instance!”

“But darling I was just having a little fun.” Kylo playfully responds, stunning the audience.

How are you not dead? They saw the blades stick into your body, they heard the crunch of your bones. How are you still berating him, how are you still alive?

“My foot itches.” You complain, and one of your legs kicks dramatically, making them laugh, reminding them that this is nothing more than some incredible trick.

“As you wish my dear, I shall stitch your body together before all these good people, so that they may bear witness to our greatness.” Kylo rounds up the two boxes once more, fits them together.

He waves his hands over them, and all the latches and clasps pop and snap together. He pulls out all the blades, the saws and swords. You give a loud moan or two for good measure, the relief of your limbs attached once more flooding through you. 

And then, the box is opened, and out you climb, and the audience has their jaws dropped.

You bend and twist your body around, showing them all that there’s not a mark on you – well, not one caused by swords at least, lest they look too close to your throat. And when you’re in Kylo’s arms once more, when you strike your pose as the music crescendos to an end, the crowd roars with applause.

It is the most remarkable thing they have ever seen, the most incredible, the most confounding, the most astounding thing – and they do not know how to process it other than with raucous applause.

The spotlight shines on you and your man, your Kylo, as you take your bows, as he thanks the audience for their attendance, as they ask for more more more beyond the spill of light. They call your names and throw roses at your feet, a simple thanks for transporting them to a world so much more fascinating than their own.

When the last of the crowd has gone, when all that remains is fog and the eerie crank of music, when there’s murmurs on the streets of how did they do that? Kylo grins against your mouth, licks across your teeth, holds you close in silent gratitude, in an embrace tighter than your corset.

And as the red velvet drapes close, you cast a gaze to the empty seats, the echoes of their cheers lofting in the rafters. Kylo snaps his wrist and the lamps blow out and you can’t help but roll your eyes fondly at this man, this man you so adore, with all his occultist tendencies, with all his supernatural powers.

Or were they supernatural at all? You don’t know.

After all, a magician never reveals his secrets.

[nolimitsongrace]

October 23: The Applause of God

The Applause of GodOctober 23, 2020

Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. — 1 Corinthians 4:5

Located in the very heart of Moscow, Russia, just minutes away from the Kremlin, is the world-famous Bolshoi Theater. It hosts some of the finest opera and ballet productions in the entire world, and world-class singers and dancers regularly grace its stage. My wife loves opera, and I occasionally take her to the opera as a gift.

I am always in awe of the wonderful, God-given talents of these performers. However, one aspect about these operas that has always impressed to me is the response of the audience when they hear a singer who gives an outstanding performance. When the performance concludes, the enthusiastic crowd rises to their feet and boisterously thunders, “Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!”

*[If you started reading this from your email, begin reading here.]

As they shout their approval, they also clap their hands together in unison to give a mighty applause that seems to go on forever!

When the evening’s performance finally draws to a close, the singers return to the stage for one last bow to the audience. As they walk past the curtain, the crowd rises to its feet and begins to riotously cheer and applaud once again, and from all over the front of the auditorium, patrons vigorously fling huge bouquets of flowers at the feet of the artists. Within a few moments, piles of flowers are scattered across the front of the huge stage. As the applause and adulation begin to wind down, beautifully dressed ushers walk onstage to personally deliver magnificent bouquets that were bought for the singers by devoted fans who wanted to show their appreciation through an extravagant gift.

At the end of the night when the curtain falls for the last time, the singers return to their dressing rooms to change out of their costumes and have their cosmetics removed, and the audience files out of the theater to go home.

Ultimately, this experience persists only as a memory in the minds of those in attendance. The rounds of applause, praise, approval, and adulation were wonderful while they lasted, but they never last long and are soon forgotten. However, there is an applause that will last for all of eternity — and that is the applause that comes from God Himself.

A day is coming in your future when you will be called on stage before God to give account for your life. Sitting in the audience, He will watch as the activities of your life are reviewed. In First Corinthians 4:5, the apostle Paul wrote about that moment, saying, “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” This verse clearly reveals that the secrets and motivations of your heart will be made known as you stand before God on that day.

Notice the last phrase of First Corinthians 4:5, which says, “…And then shall every man have praise of God.” This word “praise” is translated from the Greek word epainos, which actually means applause. However, it isn’t singers, ballet dancers, or entertainers who are being applauded in this verse — it is believers who have lived holy, consecrated, dedicated, obedient lives.

Paul used the word epainos to evoke a very strong image. By using this word, he let us know that a day is coming when we will give account for our lives. On that day, if we have lived right before God and the motives behind our service were pure, we will receive praise from the Lord Himself. It will be as if He rises to His feet to give a round of applause and a standing ovation! In fact, Paul’s imagery is so strong that the verse could be loosely interpreted, “…And at that time every man will have the applause of God.”

Think of God rising to His feet to give a standing ovation! Can you imagine the thunderous sound of His hands clapping as it reverberates and echoes throughout all of Heaven! That is precisely the picture the apostle Paul paints for that day when faithful believers stand before Him! The magnitude and nature of that divine applause will far surpass anything given by a human audience!

The truth is that much of your hard work and preparation unto the Lord is done in secret behind closed doors. When you accomplish something for Him, people are often unaware of your actions or perhaps simply forget to show their appreciation. However, according to Paul’s teaching in First Corinthian 4:5, a day will come when God Himself will personally rise and thank you for everything you have done in the name of Jesus for the advancement of the Gospel.

There is a massive, silent army of believers today whose work for the Gospel goes unrecognized in the public eye. Yet they are the engines that drive the Church and empower the advancement of the Gospel. Although they remain unseen, unrecognized, and often neglected, the fruit of their work is eternal, and Jesus sees it all. And a day will come when they receive the great applause from the King of kings Himself as He personally thanks them for their service.

The applause of men is a reward that is very short-lived and soon forgotten, but the applause of God lasts for all eternity. If you do what Jesus has called you to do and you do it with a right heart, you, too, will receive His eternal reward. As you stand before Him on that glorious day, any hardships you may have endured will dissipate before your eyes, and you will have the eternal gratification of knowing that you pleased the Lord. And as Jesus gives you His version of a standing ovation, I guarantee you that it will be the ultimate reward!

MY PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, You see everything. You are not unjust. You know how I have worked for You and how I have shown my love for You by caring for other believers. When I am tempted to be discouraged and to think that no one appreciates me, remind me that You know exactly what I am doing and why I am doing it. I know that You take note of what I do for Your Kingdom, and Your approval is what I desire. Holy Spirit, You are my Helper. I receive Your wisdom, counsel, and might to do my work for Jesus in the most excellent, professional manner possible. Thank You for Your power that enables me to serve the Lord in such a manner that one day He’ll rise to give a round of applause for what I’ve done and how I’ve done it.

I pray this in Jesus’ name!

MY CONFESSION FOR TODAY

I confess that I work as unto the Lord, whether or not men see my labor. Although it is nice to be thanked, I don’t work for the applause of men. Rather, I am laboring to please the Lord, and my priority in life is to serve Him in a manner that is honoring of Him. I devote 100 percent of my energy and efforts to glorify Jesus in all I do. With the help of the Holy Spirit, I purpose to satisfy His heart with my service and my heart motives behind my service. On that day when I am called to give an account for my works, I will stand boldly and unashamedly before Jesus because I will know I’ve given my best here in this life.

I declare this by faith in Jesus’ name!

QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO CONSIDER

Do you have times when you feel that no one acknowledges the hard work you are doing for the Lord? In moments like these, are you tempted to feel unappreciated?

Can you think of other believers who are giving every ounce of their energies to serve the Lord but are rarely thanked for their service? Have you ever gone out of your way to express your gratitude to them for what they do?

Wouldn’t it be a good idea to take a few minutes today to list the people you should thank for their service to the Lord? It would take you only a few minutes to make this list, but if you thank these people, it will mean so much to them. Wouldn’t it mean a lot to you if someone went out of his or her way to say thank you to you today?

[sarcasticmesswriting]

Opening Night Is Never A Bad Night For...

Finally finished it. It’s like 3600 Words and I’m not sure what happened. Normally I would also post it on Ao3 (and I will) but I’m having problems with the formatting. (like a part is fine and then it just changes in every form). 

ANYWAY here, have some Frost Hawk, Avenger, Theater AU thing

Excited conversations filled the theater minutes before the play was set to start. The Avengers were The Play to go see this season. It had been revealed a mere month before Opening Night with absolutely no information about what it was about or who was going to be in it. The only thing revealed was that it was the fourth part in a series of play no one had even known was connected. Everyone had been talking about it and tonight was Opening Night, seats filled with news reporters and critics and just people who loved theater. The atmosphere was great and people smiled and talked to strangers, because everything was comfortable. There was a man though, strolling through the masses and sneering at anyone looking at him. Next to all the visitors having dressed up for the evening, the man looked like he wasn't in the right place. His sneakers were dirty and scuffed, his jeans two size too big and ripped in various places and his hoodie just as bad. He had a ticket, so no one could say anything, but it was clear more than a few wanted to throw him out immediately. A chime was audible and talking turned to hushed whispers, before completely falling silent as the lights dimmed and the room was bathed in darkness. Nothing happened for a minute. “Get on with it”, someone said, back in the back rows, loud enough to be heard by most of the audience but not loud enough to be completely disruptive. It was the man from the lobby. He earned another round of looks, even though they couldn't really see him, but just in that moment spotlights turned on, illuminating the stage enough to see two people, bathed in light blue. One was tall and broad, but shadows obscured them, no indication who or what it was. The other was smaller, hunched over with a hood obscuring his face. The air around them sparkled with simulated galaxies. “The Tesseract has awakened.” The voice echoed through the room and a few people shivered. “It is on a neutral world, a human world.” “They wield its power, but our ally knows it's working, so that they never will learn.” A loud snort from the rude man, this time louder breaking the atmosphere for just a second. “He's ready to lead, and our force, our Chitauri will follow”, the taller one said after a moment of silence. “The world will be his and the universe yours.” “And the humans, what can they do, but burn.” The words were a growl and there was a flash of blue light, before everything went dark again. Applause filled the room as a single spotlight came on, making Steve Rogers appear, a highly sought out actor who had floored many with his performance as Captain America. His scene was to beat up a punching bag while Nick Fury, playing the Director, was approaching him. It was to build the plot, to give a few laughs. “Boring”, the rude man said loudly. This time someone else told him to shut up. There were a couple more scenes with Tony Stark who earned so much applause and shouting that he had to take a minute, before he could continue the play, Natasha Romanov and Phil Coulson. They talked about the Tesseract and the Avengers Initiative and judging from the applause the audience seemed to love it. Except for the one man, shouting insults every now and then. He was told to shut up repeatedly and even the security gave him the last warning. A blue cube, the Tesseract, was glowing on one side of the stage, a flutter of unimportant scientists around it and the Director and Erik Selvig as The Doctor approaching it. “The energy is going through the roof in completely random spikes”, Selvig said and they stopped in the middle of the stage. “I don't recall you being authorized for any tests, Doctor.” “That's just it”, Selvig gestured with wide eyes. “I wasn't even in the room.” The low background music bathed the room subconsciously in dread. No one knew what would happen. “We should evacuate”, Selvig said, but Fury scowled. “Pull the plug and...” “We've tried.” Selvig shook his head and gestured towards the cube. “The tesseract is an energy source. If we turn off the power, she turns it back.” As if she had heard, there was a pulse of blue light and a rumbling sound. Everyone swayed as if the ground was moving. The rude man snorted and rolled his eyes when the person next to him looked over. It was a meek man who wouldn't dare speak up. He blue light didn't stop flashing, faster and faster as the people on stage shouted and scrambled in chaos, until the light didn't disappear again and the music swelled until. Suddenly there was a man stepping forward as if coming through the cube. The music fell silent and it took two second as the green and black clad man moved for the whole audience to realize that it was the actor Loki Laufeyson who had played The Trickster in a previous play where his character had supposedly died. Thunderous applause and cheers drowned out anything else. Loki smirked, holding a stick, a scepter of some sort, and looked as if everyone else was beneath him. It wasn't so much different to how he looked off stage, but here there was a bit more crazy on his face. “Sir, please put down the spear”, Fury said as it finally got quiet enough for him to get heard. Loki's smirk got meaner. “I am the Trickster of Asgard and I am burdened by glorious purpose.” “Like the animal or did you mean to say popcorn? Either way, it's pretty stupid.” Everyone seemed to freeze and hold their breath as Loki blinked and then slowly turned towards the audience. “Excuse me?” In the silent room the quiet words carried towards every corner. “I mean, come on. You're supposed to come out of some alien portal? And you decide that's the first sentence you say? It's ridiculous.” The rude man scoffed and the people around him shifted away, as if they wanted everyone to know they weren't associated with him. Loki stepped forward until he stood on the edge of the stage. “Show yourself, ant”, he commanded and one of the spotlights shifted, illuminating the crowd who helpfully pointed in the direction of the rude man until the light was on top of him. “It's Clint, not ant”, the rude man said and gave a two finger salute, sprawled in his seat. “Well, Clint”, Loki said, his tone exactly the same as it had been for ant. “I order you to kneel before me, as it is your natural state to be ruled.” Clint started to laugh and it took a minute of Loki glowering at him for Clint to get himself back under control. “That's even worse.” During the short exchange Selvig had approached from behind and looked like he was about to reach for Loki's scepter. Without looking Loki turned slightly and grabbed Selvig's wrist and put the scepter's point onto Selvig's chest, right over his heart. Blue light flooded the room. “You pitiful human”, Loki drawled. “You're mine now.” “Yes, sir”, Selvig said, his voice empty of any emotions, his body going slack. “Oh fuck that”, Clint exclaimed. “Now you're supposed to have fucking mind control? Seriously?” “How about you come up here and find out for yourself?” Loki was smirking as the blue light waned and he turned to one of the extras to put the scepter onto their chest too. “Keep the Director nicely occupied.” “Oh, why, I'd love to.” Clint stood up and pushed himself past the other audience members sitting in the same row who glared at him, disgruntled, but stayed silent. He jogged down the alley between the seats to the stage, while Loki mind controlled a couple more who then grabbed some stuff and kept Fury and his agents in check. The spotlight followed Clint and he just climbed onto the stage, ignoring the stairs at the side. Without hesitating he went up to Loki who smirked as he saw that Clint was smaller than him. “Little human”, Loki said, bringing the scepter up to underneath Clint's chin to tilt his head up further. Clint's look was challenging and he didn't step away. “You look even more arrogant from up close.” He said it at a normal volume, but he was close enough that Loki's mic picked it up and broadcast it through the room. “You said handsome wrong”, Loki said, eyes roaming over Clint's body. “I almost feel sorry for turning you into my slave. Almost.” He lowered the scepter to Clint's chest and blue light once again flooded the room. Just like Selvig Clint's body posture changed completely and his face turned emotionless. “Sir.” Loki smiled, satisfied, and then turned with a flick of his coat, moving off to the side towards the stage exit. As soon as Loki wasn't looking at Clint anymore, Clint rolled his shoulders and sketched an extravagant bow for the audience, before winking at them and following Loki. With the audience whispering and not really knowing what to think, the lights turned off completely, indicating the end of the scene. ~*~ “The Trickster took the Doctor, several of my agents and the Tesseract. Who knows what he has planed with all that.” Fury looked at the rest of the main cast gathered around him.  “Let's find him.” ~*~ “We need the Iridium”, Selvig said and Loki scowled. “Clint”, he ordered and Clint nodded seriously. “Anything for you, sir”, Clint said, looking up at Loki through his eyelashes and licked his lips. Loki stared at Clint's mouth, not noticing how close they stood together. The moment stretched until Selvig cleared his throat and Loki straightened up. “Get it done.” He avoided looking at Clint after that. ~*~ “I have every camera out looking for him and his so called army”, Tony said and knocked on the table with his knuckles. “It's only a matter of time.” “This is a serious matter, Iron Man”, Steve glowered, his arms crossed over his broad chest. “Do I not look serious?” He pulled a grimace and Steve looked even angrier. “Guys”, Natasha interrupted. “Focus.” She pointed at Bruce. “We have a visual”, he announced and everyone straightened up. ~*~ The stage was separated into two halves with the right and left illuminated and a black space in the middle. On the right people were running around in panic while Loki stood on a raised surface with a haughty expression. “Kneel before me. Is this not your natural state? You crave subjugation. I said, kneel”, he shouted and everyone hunkered down, afraid. The sound of a plane was audible as Natasha, Tony, Steve and Phil arrived. A fight ensued. On the other half people were relaxed and in fancy clothes and having fun. A lone figure stepped to the railing of the walkway a couple of feet in the air along the stage. Blond hair combed back neatly, tight black pants and sleeveless jacket showing off muscled arms. Purple accents streaked along the seams and a purple mask hid the upper half of his face. Hawkeye, a minor character that had appeared for about a minute in the play about the Thunder God and the Trickster. A few applauded politely as the sounds of the fight quietened and the sounds of the party beneath Hawkeye grew louder. He stretched his neck from side to side and then hopped onto the railing in a crouch balancing effortlessly. “I don't need this”, he said and pulled off the mask to fling it over his shoulder, revealing himself as Clint. A shocked commotion rolled through the audience and talking erupted for ten seconds, before Clint stood up on the railing like it was normal ground. “Let's get this show on the road”, he said and smirked, before just flipping off and onto the main stage beneath. Now the people at the party were the ones running around scared as Clint grabbed a person and pulled them to the vault in the back. ~*~ “Can't do anything without me, huh?” Clint smirked at Loki who he had freed from a cage on the Helicarrier. His bow leaned against his shoulder. Loki brushed off dust and threw Clint a dirty glance. “I was about to break out myself.” “Mhm.” Clint stepped closer and grabbed the lapel of Loki's jacket with two fingers without looking into Loki's eyes. “They didn't hurt you, right?” “They wanted information, but had not resorted to torture yet.” “Good”, Clint said, his expression promising murder. “They wouldn't like what I'd do to them.” “For me?”, Loki asked hesitatingly, blinking in surprise. “Anything for you”, Clint said firmly, this time without the robotic edge to it. They were interrupted by another of Loki's men announcing that the Avengers were coming and they had to go. ~*~ “Now he has the Tesseract AND the scepter and we have no idea where he is going to be.” Fury scowled at the group of supposed superheroes in front of him. “He wants to make a statement. Stuttgart was just previews.” Tony rubbed his chin and Steve had his arms crossed with a glower. Natasha straightened up. “I know where he is going to go.” ~*~ One single spotlight lit up on the far right and Loki stood in it. He didn't have his scepter with him, but was wearing his green and gold outfit. His expression was not one of crazy mania or unhinged thoughts as it was before. It was one of contemplation. He made a few steps towards the middle of the stage, before a voice stopped him and he turned around. “Sir”, Clint joined him, wearing no mic again, so he got as close to Loki as he could without touching. Clint was still wearing his black and purple fighting gear with a quiver and bow strapped to his back. They looked into each other's eyes for a good thirty seconds without saying anything. “There has to be another way”, Clint said with the tone of someone who had already said it a couple times. Loki just sighed and started to turn as if to walk away. “We're doing it anyway.” Swiftly Clint grabbed the lapels of Loki's jacket pulled Loki closer, pressing himself to Loki's front, before kissing him. There were surprised gasps from those that hadn't seen this development coming and cheering from those that had. When Clint leaned back, Loki looked absolutely taken off guard. “Be careful”, Clint whispered, his hands flattening the jacket and then moving to the sides of Loki's face. “Please.” His voice echoed through the room and a couple of the audience members looked uncomfortable, as if they were encroaching on a private moment. Loki's featured softened and he pulled Clint in for another sweet kiss. “I will. Please do the same.” “Anything for you, sir.” Clint's smile was warm. The light went out and they disappeared. ~*~ The end battle was big with people all over the place, fights between two or three isolated and highlighted, audio switching from fight to fight, grunts and quips and exclamations. Clint was mainly up on the balcony, fighting with Natasha or shooting arrows all over the place, while Loki was downstairs whirling around with his scepter and fighting Steve or Tony or even Thor. “Watch out”, Clint shouted, jumping onto the railing and running full sprint on it until he was next to Loki. He drew an arrow and shot it at Tony in less than a second, but he wasn't fast enough. Tony hit Loki, sending him flying back and sliding over the ground, just before Tony was hit by the arrow in his shoulder and pulled back by Steve. Without hesitation Clint flipped off the railing again, much faster, much more reckless and everyone held their breath until Clint landed on his feet though he went down on his knees next to Loki immediately. Everyone raised their weapons, ready to attack Loki and end this, but Loki lifted his hand and there was a flash of green and they all froze mid motion. Except for Clint and Loki. Clint curled one arm around Loki's back and pulled him up into a half sitting position and Loki just slumped into Clint. “You were the one insisting on the plan and now you're not even following it.” Clint tried to keep his voice calm, but there was still a tremor in it. His free hand hovered over the red spreading over Loki's chest. Loki grabbed Clint's wrist, took a shuddered breath and looked up to look into Clint's eyes. “You're still going to do it. I'm ordering you to.” “Fuck you.” Clint's hand went up to Loki's neck, fingers digging into the skin a little. “After all the preparation and the killing and the lies, you're not going to leave me alone now.” “If this has to happen to achieve our goal...” “It's not worth it” Clint interrupted, leaning forward to rest his forehead against Loki's. Loki's eyes closed for a second. “You're not thinking rationally.” “You're fucking dying. Forgive me if I'm not keeping my emotions in check.” Clint sneered for a second, before he sagged a little. “Please. Use your magic. There must be something you can do.” Letting go of Clint's wrist Loki grabbed Clint's collar and pulled him down into a messy, desperate kiss, both clinging to the other. “I love you”, Loki whispered, just before there was a blinding light and everyone started to move again, though they stopped in confusion. Clint was still kneeling on the ground, but Loki's body was gone. The only sign of his death was the red stain on the ground and the tears rolling down Clint's cheeks. “It's ready”, Selvig shouted from the balcony and broke the moment. With a fierce expression Clint stood up. “Do it.” “What?” - “No!” - “Someone stop him!” Selvig flipped the switch and the sound of the machine using the Tesseract filled the air, humming with energy. “How dare you?”, a voice boomed through the hall, a figure stepping onto the stage from behind some crates, the silhouette recognized from the start of the play. Clint took his bow off his back and drew an arrow to point right at the man. “You have terrorized planets and now you took the man I love who didn't even know it. We're putting an end to it.” With those words Clint let loose the arrow, letting it fly directly through Thanos' eye, killing him. He fell to the ground with a thump and lay there, anticlimactically. “So, he is one of the good guys?”, Tony asked and all, but Clint glared at him. “What?” ~*~ The applause was deafening from the second the play was over. Everyone was rushing to their feet, even the critics, clapping and hollering. One by one the actresses and actors came out and bowed, basking in the cheers that exploding for each one. Although, when Clint and Loki came out together, there was another raise and Clint's laughter as he bowed was inaudible even to Loki and Natasha who were both directly next to him. Clint loved these moments. When they had finished basking in the praise and had praised the audio department and the behind the scenes crew, Clint felt like it was the perfect opportunity. He stepped forward out of the line they had built and raised his hands flatly into the air to quiet the hall. “What are you doing?”, Loki said, his voice sounding like a hiss in the noise, but Clint just winked at him, at which Loki pulled a face. Clint's expression never promised anything good. “After this absolutely amazing Opening Night”, Clint started. “An amazing performance by everyone, including the man that told me to, and I quote, shut the fuck up, dipshit earlier.” Chuckles, but there was still confusion. “There is still something I really want to do here, in front of everybody.” Clint paused for dramatic effect, not managing to suppress a grin. “Loki”, he continued, turning towards him. “We have known each other for a very long time now.” Loki's eyes narrowed. “Are you doing what I think you're doing?” With a flourish Clint pulled out the tiny purple velvet box and went down on one knee under the screaming of a hundred people. “I hate you so much.” “Loki Laufeyson, will you make me the happiest person in this room by agreeing to become my husband?” “You already fucking know the answer.” Loki grabbed Clint's arm and pulled him into a big hug, before kissing him senseless. Tony whistled sharply, but that and everything else fell into the background as Clint and Loki just grinned at each other and hugged in between exchanging more kisses. ~*~ Every single newspaper and online blog was full with articles about that night.

[nolimitsongrace]

October 23: The Applause of God

The Applause of GodOctober 23, 2019

Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. — 1 Corinthians 4:5

Located in the very heart of Moscow, Russia, just minutes away from the Kremlin, is the world-famous Bolshoi Theater. It hosts some of the finest opera and ballet productions in the entire world, and world-class singers and dancers regularly grace its stage. My wife loves opera, and I occasionally take her to the opera as a gift.

I am always in awe of the wonderful, God-given talents of these performers. However, one aspect about these operas that has always impressed to me is the response of the audience when they hear a singer who gives an outstanding performance. When the performance concludes, the enthusiastic crowd rises to their feet and boisterously thunders, “Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!”

As they shout their approval, they also clap their hands together in unison to give a mighty applause that seems to go on forever!

*[If you started reading this from your email, begin reading here.]

When the evening’s performance finally draws to a close, the singers return to the stage for one last bow to the audience. As they walk past the curtain, the crowd rises to its feet and begins to riotously cheer and applaud once again, and from all over the front of the auditorium, patrons vigorously fling huge bouquets of flowers at the feet of the artists. Within a few moments, piles of flowers are scattered across the front of the huge stage. As the applause and adulation begin to wind down, beautifully dressed ushers walk onstage to personally deliver magnificent bouquets that were bought for the singers by devoted fans who wanted to show their appreciation through an extravagant gift.

At the end of the night when the curtain falls for the last time, the singers return to their dressing rooms to change out of their costumes and have their cosmetics removed, and the audience files out of the theater to go home.

Ultimately, this experience persists only as a memory in the minds of those in attendance. The rounds of applause, praise, approval, and adulation were wonderful while they lasted, but they never last long and are soon forgotten. However, there is an applause that will last for all of eternity — and that is the applause that comes from God Himself.

A day is coming in your future when you will be called on stage before God to give account for your life. Sitting in the audience, He will watch as the activities of your life are reviewed. In First Corinthians 4:5, the apostle Paul wrote about that moment, saying, “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” This verse clearly reveals that the secrets and motivations of your heart will be made known as you stand before God on that day.

Notice the last phrase of First Corinthians 4:5, which says, “…And then shall every man have praise of God.” This word “praise” is translated from the Greek word epainos, which actually means applause. However, it isn’t singers, ballet dancers, or entertainers who are being applauded in this verse — it is believers who have lived holy, consecrated, dedicated, obedient lives.

Paul used the word epainos to evoke a very strong image. By using this word, he let us know that a day is coming when we will give account for our lives. On that day, if we have lived right before God and the motives behind our service were pure, we will receive praise from the Lord Himself. It will be as if He rises to His feet to give a round of applause and a standing ovation! In fact, Paul’s imagery is so strong that the verse could be loosely interpreted, “…And at that time every man will have the applause of God.”

Think of God rising to His feet to give a standing ovation! Can you imagine the thunderous sound of His hands clapping as it reverberates and echoes throughout all of Heaven! That is precisely the picture the apostle Paul paints for that day when faithful believers stand before Him! The magnitude and nature of that divine applause will far surpass anything given by a human audience!

The truth is that much of your hard work and preparation unto the Lord is done in secret behind closed doors. When you accomplish something for Him, people are often unaware of your actions or perhaps simply forget to show their appreciation. However, according to Paul’s teaching in First Corinthian 4:5, a day will come when God Himself will personally rise and thank you for everything you have done in the name of Jesus for the advancement of the Gospel.

There is a massive, silent army of believers today whose work for the Gospel goes unrecognized in the public eye. Yet they are the engines that drive the Church and empower the advancement of the Gospel. Although they remain unseen, unrecognized, and often neglected, the fruit of their work is eternal, and Jesus sees it all. And a day will come when they receive the great applause from the King of kings Himself as He personally thanks them for their service.

The applause of men is a reward that is very short-lived and soon forgotten, but the applause of God lasts for all eternity. If you do what Jesus has called you to do and you do it with a right heart, you, too, will receive His eternal reward. As you stand before Him on that glorious day, any hardships you may have endured will dissipate before your eyes, and you will have the eternal gratification of knowing that you pleased the Lord. And as Jesus gives you His version of a standing ovation, I guarantee you that it will be the ultimate reward!

MY PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, You see everything. You are not unjust. You know how I have worked for You and how I have shown my love for You by caring for other believers. When I am tempted to be discouraged and to think that no one appreciates me, remind me that You know exactly what I am doing and why I am doing it. I know that You take note of what I do for Your Kingdom, and Your approval is what I desire. Holy Spirit, You are my Helper. I receive Your wisdom, counsel, and might to do my work for Jesus in the most excellent, professional manner possible. Thank You for Your power that enables me to serve the Lord in such a manner that one day He’ll rise to give a round of applause for what I’ve done and how I’ve done it.

I pray this in Jesus’ name!

MY CONFESSION FOR TODAY

I confess that I work as unto the Lord, whether or not men see my labor. Although it is nice to be thanked, I don’t work for the applause of men. Rather, I am laboring to please the Lord, and my priority in life is to serve Him in a manner that is honoring of Him. I devote 100 percent of my energy and efforts to glorify Jesus in all I do. With the help of the Holy Spirit, I purpose to satisfy His heart with my service and my heart motives behind my service. On that day when I am called to give an account for my works, I will stand boldly and unashamedly before Jesus because I will know I’ve given my best here in this life.

I declare this by faith in Jesus’ name!

QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO CONSIDER

Do you have times when you feel that no one acknowledges the hard work you are doing for the Lord? In moments like these, are you tempted to feel unappreciated?

Can you think of other believers who are giving every ounce of their energies to serve the Lord but are rarely thanked for their service? Have you ever gone out of your way to express your gratitude to them for what they do?

Wouldn’t it be a good idea to take a few minutes today to list the people you should thank for their service to the Lord? It would take you only a few minutes to make this list, but if you thank these people, it will mean so much to them. Wouldn’t it mean a lot to you if someone went out of his or her way to say thank you to you today?