Sunday, September 23, 2012

An Overview of Common Ways to Meditate

My tongue swirled slowly
around the soft pink flesh,
pausing only …
to taste its’ sweetness.
Can you guess what I’m talking about? I know what many of you might be thinking … and the answer is NO … I’m not talking about sex … I’m actually talking about eating a piece of watermelon!

About a dozen years ago, I attended a weekend seminar on Mindful Meditation. One of the many meditation exercises on mindfulness, was a mindful eating meditation.

A small group of us were sitting around a table talking, while we waited for the waiter to bring our breakfast. When it arrived, our facilitator led us in a short, group prayer. She then proceeded to instruct us that for the next 30 minutes, there was to be no conversation; we each were to pay attention to, and be mindful of, every bite we took. She asked us to pay particular attention to our sensory perceptions while we ate; when we were through eating, we were to write something which accurately described our experience; it was from this experience that “Ode to a Watermelon” was born.

An eating meditation is only one form of meditation. “There are many forms of meditation. Anything ranging from increasing and stimulating sexual pleasures to traveling through the memories of past lives on a spiritual journey. The Eastern Philosophies have been doing this for centuries, whereas the Western Culture has suppressed it.” (Thanks Brother Brett!)

Although there are numerous forms of meditation, they can be categorized into one of two primary forms:

1: Mind-focused meditations (mindful meditations)
2: No-Mind Meditations (mindless meditations)

The meditations Brett speaks of all fall under the category of Mind-Focused or Mindful Meditations. As Brett stated, “The Eastern Philosophies have been doing this for centuries whereas the Western Culture has suppressed it.”

Meditative practices are not only accepted, but encouraged, by most religions. The practice of meditation is firmly anchored in the Bible, which specifically directs its readers to meditate. I have been told that the Bible mentions meditate or meditation twenty times; thus far, I have found nineteen references; seventeen in the Old Testament and two in the New Testament. I am still looking for the twentieth.  :>)

God commands his people to meditate on his word day and night to instill obedience.  His delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law he meditates day and night.  Joshua 1:8, Psalms 1:2

Most Christian Meditative practices are Kataphatic. Kataphatic tradition seeks deeper realization of God through visions, feelings, imagery, words, and other sensate or symbolic forms of experience. All of these meditative practices fall under the category of mind-focused or mindful meditations.

However, there are some Contemporary Christian Meditative practices that are no-mind or mindless meditations. These meditative practices are predominately Apophatic. I say, predominately because most apophatics have a number of kataphatic experiences prior to becoming apophatic. All mind-focused meditations serve as a preparation tool for no-mind or mindless meditations ~ true meditations.

Apophatic tradition acts as a bridge between East-West teachings; followers of this tradition believe that opening and expanding one’s consciousness to the divine presence within ourselves will enable one to transcend the physical realm; followers believe that the Creator can be known, not intellectually, but with the heart. To achieve this transcendence from the physical to spiritual realm(s), this Christian tradition mimics the teachings of the East, by utilizing both a sacred word to express the intention to be in the Creator’s presence, and the progressive letting go of any/all identified psychological baggage.

Apophatic experiences can be psychologically and spiritually threatening; some people will continue to seek Kataphatic sensory experiences for years before they develop an Apophatic attraction to the mystery behind and beyond experience, but in stripping delusions about the Creator (God) from our minds, we prepare ourselves for the truth, and by eliminating all that is not the Creator (God), we begin to penetrate to the heart of the truth ~ where the Great Mystery is then revealed.

The real purpose of every mind-based meditation is to get to the point of transcendental mindlessness and union. It is helpful to think of mind-based meditations as pre-meditations for the real meditation, which is mindless. With this knowledge in mind, we will begin next week with Chakra (pre) Meditations. By utilizing these mind-based (pre) meditations one can safely start to practice these mental exercises until we each, collectively, reach a state of pure beingness in mindless meditation.

May we dedicate ourselves to the practice of pre-meditation, with an intensely honest willingness, so we may be prepared to receive our ticket to enlightenment and ascension.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

AMEN

Sunday, September 16, 2012

The Pro’s and Con’s of Meditation: Part 2 of 2

This week’s discourse is intentionally short.

As there are very real dangers to meditating, this week’s discourse will confine itself to the basic Con’s of Meditation.
The following information is spiritually factual, but to minimize confusion, no scriptures are offered.

Many scriptures in the bible allude to meditation; several state that we should practice meditation on daily basis. The key word, or point, is “practice.”

If we attempt to go too deeply into a meditation, too fast, we can open the door to temporary or permanent insanity. Repressed or unconscious memories (trauma) can bubble up from our subconscious, and rapidly flood our conscious. Rather than achieving a state of communion with the Creator (God), we can become psychologically tormented by our own, now distorted, unconscious memories.  When this happens, we experience psychological and emotional demons; the D(evil) of our own unconscious minds.

If we do not rush ourselves to dive into the depths of meditation, our unconscious memories will slowly rise up, and allow us to stretch our consciousness. As our consciousness is stretched, unconscious memories will begin to surface, one at a time to be processed. We will not be flooded by them; nor will we become so emotionally or mentally overwhelmed that we temporarily or permanently go insane.

If we are unable to process any and all visions or intuitive perceptions received, during meditation, we (or others, especially medical Doctors and those in the mental-health field), may mistake our visions and perceptions as hallucinations, and label us with a diagnosis of psychosis, delusions or schizophrenia.

May we take time to “practice” daily meditation, taking great care not to go too deep, too fast; may we be humble enough to confide in (share) and seek assistance from spiritually knowledgeable teachers/guides who can help us process visions and/or insights gained during our meditations.


AMEN

Sunday, September 9, 2012

The Pro’s and Con’s of Meditation: Part 1 of 2


Psychoanalysts "have this cute little god called Freud and a very well-paid priesthood and the faithful go weekly to worship on couches." (from "Glittering Images," a novel by Susan Howatcvh)
Those wishing to maintain balance in the physical realm only, go to psychoanalysts (therapists, counselors, etc.), but those wishing to maintain balance in the physical realm AND progress spiritually to the point of ascension into the kingdom of God/Heaven, MEDITATE!

His disciples said to him. “ … When will the new world come?” He said to them, “What you are looking forward to has come, but you don’t know it” Gospel of Thomas, Verse 51

The Pharisees asked him, ‘When will the kingdom of God come?’ He said: ‘You cannot tell by observation when the kingdom of God comes. There will be no saying, “Look, here it is!” or “there it is!”; for in fact the kingdom of God is within you.” Luke 17:20-21

Jesus’ disciples said unto him: “When will the kingdom come?” Jesus answered, “It will not come by waiting for it. People will not say, ‘Look! Here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’ But the kingdom of the Creator (Father) is spread out upon the earth and people do not see it.” Gospel of Thomas, Verse 113

And he said, “It has been granted to you to know the secrets of the kingdom of God …” Luke 8:10 “… it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven …” Matthew 13:11

Meditation is an ancient Spiritually-based modality, which utilizes Vibratory Spiritual Energy (Universal Life Energy, Prana, Chi, Ki, Holy Spirit, Spirit Within, etc.), and provides a pathway for opening perceptions to higher planes of consciousness (Christ Consciousness, Union with the Creator/God) . It is a Spiritual practice which helps one connect more fully with the Source of Life.

Meditation is a process and may/may not happen with only one “practice” session; it may take a considerable amount of time and sessions to regain health/wholeness/holiness.

The founders of the now infamous Alcoholic Anonymous Program, were aware that meditation was an important step which must be taken, if one wished to advance spiritually.

“Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message … and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” (the 11th and 12th steps of Alcoholics Anonymous; also found in other 12 Step Programs)

While it is true that Spiritual Awakenings can and do happen suddenly, they are the exception, rather than the rule. In most cases, a “true” Spiritual Awakening, one in which profound personality changes occur, takes time and conscious effort.

To make progress spiritually, is to learn through daily meditation, to transcend the physical SELF; that is to say, the SELFish ego, which consists of SELF-delusions, SELF-seeking attitudes and behaviors, SELF-pity, SELF-grandeur, SELF-will, and SELF-centeredness.

Issues concerning diet, physical/mental health, mindset, attitude, support system, repressed memories/emotions, and/or other environmental factors usually rise to the surface of one’s consciousness; this is all part of the process. Any/ALL identified issues need to be worked through, as they surface, before one’s soul is “fully” liberated.

“Meditate upon these things: give yourself wholly to them, so that your progress will be plain to all. Persevere in them, keep close watch on yourself and your teaching; by doing so you will further the salvation of yourself and your hearers. 1 Timothy 4:14-16

Matthew said: “Lord, I wish to see that place of life … where there is no wickedness but only pure light.” The Lord said, “Brother Matthew, you will not be able to see it as long as you bear flesh.” Matthew said: “Lord, even if I will not be able to see it, let me know it. The Lord said, “Those who have known themselves have seen it.” The Complete Gospels: Annotated Scholars Version 14:1-4

“The kingdom of heaven is within you and it is outside of you. If you will know yourselves, then you will be known, and you will realize that you are children of the living Creator (Father). But if you do not know yourselves, then you dwell in poverty and you are poverty.” Gospel of Thomas, Verse 3

May we take time to “practice” daily meditation; may we continue to be humble enough to confide in (share) and seek assistance from spiritually knowledgeable teachers who can help us process visions and/or insights gained during our meditations, and help us overcome any/all stumbling blocks along the way, so that we may transcend the SELFish ego of our physical SELFves, and progress spiritually to the point of ascension into the kingdom of God/Heaven.

“Listen to my words, Creator (O LORD), consider my meditation.” Psalms 5:1 “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight …” Psalms 19:14 “May my meditation please the Creator (LORD), as I show my joy in him!” Psalms 104:34


AMEN

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Manifesting Hope

A strong desire for something, coupled with an expectation of obtaining the object(s) of our desire, constitutes hope . Hope is the belief that our present day desires will, in fact, manifest as reality at some point in the future; it is a universal blessing.

While we look forward to the manifestation of something we are waiting (hoping) for, it serves us well to wait patiently and confidently. In Hebrew, the word for hope is confidence; it implies a confident expectation of the future.

As long as we maintain our hope, that our desire will, in fact, be attained, and we realize that it must be delayed for a certain period of time; we can wait patiently for the manifestation process to complete itself. As long as we sustain hope and patience, we can overcome obstacles and endure trials and pain, no matter their severity or intensity.

When we have a strong desire without a corresponding expectation of obtaining it, we tend to become impatient. Without hope, the darkness of desperation and anguish result.

”But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” Romans 8:25

The more that we believe that our hope has a high probabiltiy of being attained, the easier it will be for us to endure any tribulation that comes our way while we are patiently waiting for our hope to manifest itself. Prayer helps to strengthen our faith that our hopes will indeed eventually manifest; prayer raises the vibrational frequency of our hopes.

"In hope, rejoicing; in tribulation, enduring; in prayer, persevering."
Romans 12:12

The ability to bring energy/light into form is a great spiritual gift and challenge. By manifesting, we are in active alignment with our spiritual selves, the Divine Light (Jesus), and the Creator (God).

“To each person has been given the ability to manifest the Spirit for the common good. “
I Corinthians 12:7

Energy follows thought; therefore, what we think about is extremely important, not only for ourselves but for the universe at large. Thought creates feelings (emotions). Doubt weakens or completely nullifies our ability to manifest. Therefore, it is important for us to identify any/all possible reasons (fears and doubts) which might prevent us from manifesting what we desire.

Desire provides the fuel to power the thoughts we project. The more desire we have, and the more we believe that our desires will manifest, the more successful we will be.

“And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship the Creator (God), and report that the Creator (God) is in you of a truth.” 1 Corinthians 14:25

When we let go and trust that the universe will provide what we need, exactly when we need it, we begin to attract support. Visible and invisible support not only helps move our manifestation process forward, but also help us gain the courage we need, to take, and continue taking, the steps we need to take.

That which we wish to manifest already exists; every possible outcome, conceived of in our thoughts, is already accomplished. When we recognize and are grateful for this knowledge, and expect our manifestations to come into being (form) they will; gratitude greatly accelerates the manifestation process. It may take a little time before our desire to manifest appears; it requires patience to sit back and wait. Our ability to remain patient is in direct proportion to how happy we are.

Manifestations that align our desires with our own individual Soul’s purpose manifest quite easily. Likewise, manifestations that are in alignment with our own, individual Ego, face many obstacles and stumbling blocks along the way. If we keep hitting a brick wall, we may want to turn around and take another path. Manifestation works best when we manifest selflessly, for the greater good; correct alignment of our will brings more energy/light to ourselves and others.

We can only manifest things that are in alignment with our belief that we are worthy. In other words, we can only manifest what we believe we can have. Our ability to be willing and open to receive the gift of manifestation, greatly affects what we manifest; we will only rise to the level of our own resistance.

"It is for this very purpose that I have lifted you so high--that I may make manifest in you My power, and that My name may be proclaimed far and wide in all the earth."
Romans 9:17

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light.
Amen

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Edifying Communication


To communicate is a form of sharing. The spirit of our inter-relational existence, can be found in the ways in which we communicate; the world is both dependent on and affected by communication. The way we speak and the words we choose have a tremendous effect upon our spirit.

When we speak, we give life to our thoughts; whenever we speak our thoughts out loud, the vibrational level of our thoughts change. It’s better to say nothing at all, than to say something negative. Some commonly used negative words like: But, Try, If, Might, Would Have, Should Have, Could Have, Can't and Don't, negate our ability to successfully be our “Highest Selves,” and affect the Higher Selves of those we speak to.

The goal of effective communication, is to share our message while edifying/building others up, not tearing them apart. Unfortunately, most of us tend to think, and thereby communicate our own interests, in an effort to get others to see things our way, rather than what might be in the best interest of those with whom we are communicating.

If we wish to lift/raise others with the words we use when communicating, our words need to be pleasant and peaceful, even if we are not in agreement with our listener; it is important to remain respectful! Our words will serve us best if we do not come across as being too wise, too good and/or too great.

Anyone who has ever written newspaper copy knows the importance of communicating just the Who, What, When, Where and Why of their message.

To be an effective communicator and get our point across without misunderstanding and confusion, it is best if we do not communicate too much information, too fast, or if our words are not disorganized or too complex.

“I keep six honest serving-men
(They taught me all I knew);
Their names are What and Why and When
And How and Where and Who.”

(Rudyard Kipling, from "The Elephant's Child" in Just So Stories )

Words which edify:

• instruct by providing new information whichs helps remove ignorance,
• counsel those in trouble/danger to overcome their difficulties,
• comfort by imparting consolation, and/or
• foster truthful discussion.

Regardless of whether we are engaged in instruction, counseling, providing comfort or truthful discussion, words that come from the heart are usually useful and edifying.

Edifying words are:

• pleasant
• courteous
• gracious
• respectful
• loving
• truthful
• kind
• encouraging
• informative
• harmonious
• profitable for all involved parties

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”
Ephesians 4:29

Non-Edifying words are:

• foul/abusive
• abrasive
• harmful to the other person/people
• offensive
• degrading
• disrespectful
• demoralizing
• character assassinators
• accusatory/blaming
• fault-finding
• angry
• prideful
• arrogant
• false

“But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.” Colossians 3:8

It is best if all parts of ourselves work in balance and harmony. When the speech of our mind is in disagreement with the speech of our heart, the words that come out of our mouth are false; they run contrary to edification; they do not shine the light of truth on anyone’s mind.

Words that are not pleasant to others, are destructive to the spirit of both the “listener” and the “speaker.” Effective communication can improve our inter-relations by increasing intimacy, trust and support; likewise, non-effective communication can weaken bonds, create mistrust and breed contempt.

We cannot edify anyone when we are full of anger, contentious and/or quarrelsome!
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Romans 14:19

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light.
Amen

Sunday, August 12, 2012

The Power of Words

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The way we speak and the words we choose have a tremendous effect upon our spirit. 
Each word you speak has an energetic resonance that attracts its equivalent and creates a form that corresponds to its vibration. 
“The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.” Proverbs 13:3  
Most of us have a running internal dialogue with ourselves; our internal voices give us direction. Many psychologists believe that it takes up to seventeen positive statements to offset one negative statement. We reinforce our programming with our internal dialogue. We can use our words to curse our life; we can use our words to bless our life.

“From the fruit of a man's mouth he enjoys good, But the desire of the treacherous is violence.” Proverbs 13:2

Negative thoughts don’t need to become negative words. Whenever we speak our thoughts out loud, the vibrational level of our thoughts change. 

An interesting experimental study, much like Masaru Emoto’s work with water crystals, gives visual proof of the power and impact of our words. This particular study, by Doreen and Grant Virtue, found then whenever spiritual or loving positive words were spoken, pleasant, round shapes were produced on a graph, and rose above the middle base line. Likewise, whenever negative words were spoken, sharp, pointy, angular shapes were produced on a graph, and fell below the middle base line. This experimental study provides additional preliminary proof that someone who talks negatively, does indeed, have an energetically “sharp tongue.”

When we speak, we give life to our thoughts. Our words become self-fulfilling prophecies; we prophesize our future by the words we speak in the present. We are the co-creators of our own experiences; we receive what we speak. It’s better to say nothing at all, than to say something negative. 

“The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.” Proverbs 13:3
Here’s a short list of some commonly used negative words, which when used, negate our ability to successfully be our “highest selves.”

But: Negates any words that are stated before it.
Try: Presupposes failure. If we "try" to do something, we give our unconscious mind permission not to succeed. We will reap many benefits by removing the word "try" from our vocabulary.
If: Presupposes that we may not.
Might: It does nothing definite. It leaves options for your listener..
Would Have: draws attention to things that didn't actually happen.
Should Have: draws attention to things that didn't actually happen (and implies guilt.)
Could Have: draws attention to things that didn't actually happen but the person tries to take credit as if it did happen.
Can't/Don't: forces listeners to focus on the opposite of what we say. (cew 12:37

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light.
Amen

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Hypocrisy

“Hypocrisy”

Hypocrisy is NOT failing to practice what we preach; it IS pretending to have beliefs, opinions, virtues, feelings, etc. that we do NOT actually possess. Religious/spiritual hypocrisy is pretending to have moral or religious beliefs/principles, etc., that we do not adhere to.

“A hypocrite is one who acts contrary to what they say or what they believe.” (Jeremiah 42:20)

All forms of hypocrisy are deceptive. Oftentimes, hypocratic deception not only deceives those around us, it deceives us as well, and corrodes our well-being.

"Your health is bound to be affected if, day after day, you say the opposite of what you feel …"
(from Doctor Zhivago)

When a hypocrite's words and actions do not match, anothers faith can be destroyed. Religious/spiritual hypocrisy is one of the main reasons that people to turn away from religion/spiritual teachings. Every wisdom tradition teaches us that judgments we place upon others, resonate with us because they are, in some way, self-judgments.

Rather than seeing others as hypocrites, it will serve us well to look deep within ourselves before deciding to cast the first stone. When we see the faults of others and refuse to see our own faults, we are hypocrites.

"Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother’s eye." (Luke 6:42)

“Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things.” (Romans 2: 1)

One of the saddest things about religious/spiritual hypocrisy is that outwardly, we may appear faithful, but we are nothing more than actors, playing a part.

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchers, which outwardly appear beautiful, but inwardly are full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but inwardly ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity” (Matt. 23:27-28).

When our religious/spiritual practices are hit-or-miss, we remain in bondage; when we are play acting or faking it, we can not connect with or be healed by the Divine Light/Jesus. Our religious/spiritual practices needn’t be a full time job, but our thoughts, words and actions, do need to come about naturally from our heart, on a full time basis.

“His speech was smooth as butter, yet war was in his heart; his words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.” (Psalm 55:21)

“Ye hypocrites, well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying, This people honoreth me with their lips; But their heart is far from me. But in vain do they worship me, Teaching as their doctrines the precepts of men” (Matthew 15:7-9).

If we are unable to put into practice the moral or religious beliefs/principles, etc., that we profess to believe in, we are being hypocrites. There is simply no excuse to hypocritically adhere to a religion/spiritual teaching or tradition that we not believe in.

“A little less hypocrisy and a little more self-knowledge can only have good results in respect for our neighbor; for we are all too prone to transfer to our fellows the injustice and violence we inflict upon our own natures” (C.G. Jung, 1966). Two Essays on Analytical Psychology, Collected Works, Volume 7, Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press.)

Let us not be religious/spiritual hypocrites. The same Creator made all of us; we are all part of this ONE Creator – no matter what name we choose to call Him, so let us take the time to look at our own lives, before we judge others. Let us consciously strive to understand our own dark or hidden side; it is part of who we are. After we have shed light upon our own dark side, we can shine our light more brightly for others.

“Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness.” (John 2:9) “If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.” (1 John 1:6)

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. (James 3:17) “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.” (1 Peter 2:1)

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light.
Amen

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Taking a Stand


There are dimensions and levels beyond the 3D world we live in now.  While we are still living in this consciousness, we need light/love to balance out the dark/fear.  The concept of dark/light ... earthly/heavenly... are part of the dualistic thinking which is prevalent in this current consciousness.  For us to evolve/ascend into the higher dimensions of light, we must let go of duality. 

No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both Heaven and Earth.  Matthew 6:24

Ample opportunities are provided for each of us, on a daily basis, to choose whether we want to serve the Earthly Realm (dark, fear, hate, anger, lust, greed, sloth, resentment, pain, ignorance, jealousy, disdain, indifference,  etc.) or the Spiritual Realm (light, love, joy, compassion, gratitude, bliss, patience, empathy, humility, loyalty, honor, stewardship, courage, responsibility, etc.)

We can not give our ALL to more than 1 thing at a time.  This is a law of human nature. While we may very capable of multi-tasking (switching back and forth between 2 of more things, thoughts, emotions, tasks, etc.), we can only give our “full attention” to one thing at a time.  The Spiritual Realm requires our whole body, mind and soul.   When forced to make a choice, we tend to serve that which we desire most.

Regardless of what drama/temptation/situation presents itself to us, we can not sit on the fence, with divided thought/opinions; we must take a stand one way or the other.  For when we adopt attitudes like: makes no difference to me … I can take it or leave it … we are being indifferent.  When we are indifferent, we unconsciously “choose” the Earthly Realm by default, as indifference is of the Earthly Realm.  

It is spiritually dangerous to switch back and forth between being of service to the Spiritual Realm, and being of service to the Earthly Realm.  Whenever we give ourselves to the physical world, which is of the earthly Realm, we separate ourselves from the Creator (God) and the Divine Light (Jesus), which are of the Spiritual Realm.  When we separate ourselves from the Creator (God) and the Divine Light (Jesus), we are unable to trust that the Spiritual Realm will provide for us.  If the Spiritual Realm is not the object of our supreme trust, the Earthly Realm will be, by default.   

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your physical life (Earthly Realm), inquiring what you will eat or what you are to drink; nor about your body, inquiring about what you will wear.  Is not your soul (Spiritual Realm) more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 25  Therefore do not ever be concerned or say, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear? 31 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Spiritual Father already knows all your needs. 32  But first, be concerned about his kingdom and what has his approval. Then all these things will be provided for you.  33 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. 34  Matthew 6:25, 31-34 

These three fears (and others,) control those who serve the Earthly Realm.  Thoughtfulness for our souls (Spiritual Realm) is the best cure of thoughtfulness for the world (Earthly Realm).  The Spiritual Realm, from wence our life originated, knows what our needs are.  If we live up to our spiritual duties and responsibilities, with full trust in the Spiritual Realm, we will not lack for any thing we truly need.  Seek first the Spiritual Realm; it is the way to be provided for, in both Realms.

No obstacle is able to stand before an unwavering faith in the Spiritual Realm.  The mustard-seed is a very tiny seed, yet it becomes the greatest of all herbs.  With just the smallest amount of genuine faith, we can do many, seemingly impossible, things.  As our faith expands, so does our ability to successfully navigate more difficult things.   With enough faith, nothing is impossible.

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"  Matthew 14:31  "You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible." Matthew 17:20 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.  Mark 11:23

Therefore, let us not worry unduly, about our physical needs; instead, let us trust that the Spiritual Realm, which created our bodies and breathed the breath of life into us, will provide what is needed to sustain us.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

Now this does not mean that we can sit around all day and do nothing but pray, asking the Spiritual Realm for this or that; that would be a form of sloth; it would also be irresponsible in both Realms.
 
Biblical Scripture, as well as common sense, dictate that we prudently spend time in reflective thought, forethought and discernment, to help maintain, support, and preserve our own lives.  We need to utilize the divine faculties and gifts we were born with, and do the footwork, so to speak, but we do not need to allow ourselves to engage in perplexing and/or distressing thoughts and cares, which lead to despair and leave us incapable of making responsible decisions or taking appropriate actions.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

As our consciousness continues to evolve/ascend, which is what we are here to do, the concept of 3D duality will vanish from our minds.  Until then, each of us must take a stand one way or the other.  

Like all of you, I am a Spiritual Being having a HUMAN Experience; therefore, I, also come face to face with human dramas/temptations/situations which present themselves, on a daily basis.  Depending on how I consciously, or unconsciously, “choose” to navigate these regularly occurring human experiences, I “allow” myself to either stay strong on my spiritual path, or I “allow” myself to be lured off it.   

Which side of the fence are you on?

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light. Amen

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Straying off the Spiritual Path


Straying off the Spiritual Path

As stated last week, ample opportunities, are provided for each of us, on a daily basis, to choose whether we want to serve the Earthly Realm or the Spiritual Realm.  Regardless of what drama/temptation/situation presents itself to us, when we allow ourselves to display ANY Attitude/Behavior indicative of the Earthly Realm, we consciously or unconsciously separate ourselves from the Spiritual Realm.

Some Attitudes/behaviors indicative of the Spiritual Realm:
  • gentleness
  • calmness
  • a love of truth
  • meek
  • peaceful
  • teachable
  • merciful
  • sincere
  • tender-hearted
  • sensitive
  • honest
  • forgiving
  • patient
  • loving
  • open
  • steadfast
  • unwavering consistency
  • vigilant
  • faithful
  • trusting
  • modest
  • humble
  • courteous 


Some Attitudes/behaviors indicative of the Earthly Realm:
  • strife
  • contention
  • self-conceit
  • subtle and skilful argumentation
  • shrewdness
  • bigotry
  • bitterness
  • racist
  • angry
  • bullying
  • abrasive (in words or actions)
  • abusive (physically/mentally/emotionally and/or spiritually)
  • disrespectful
  • lustful dysfunctional gratification of the passions
  • envious
  • stubborn
  • selfish
  • quarrelsome
  • malicious
  • deceitful
  • cunning
  • secretive
  • crafty
  • proud
  • haughty
  • overbearing
  • condescending
  • arrogant

It is easy to lose our spiritual focus and our way.  As a matter of fact, it is so easy to do, that we often do not even realize that we are no longer on our spiritual path.  We may be off it for only but a moment or two, or we may stray so far off the spiritual path, that we can not see our way back.  

As you all know, I, like all of you, am a Spiritual Being having a HUMAN Experience; therefore, I, also come face to face with human dramas/temptations/situations which present themselves, on a daily basis.  Depending on how I consciously, or unconsciously, “choose” to navigate these regularly occurring human experiences, I “allow” myself to either stay strong on my spiritual path, or I “allow” myself to be lured off it. 

Case in Point:  This week, I unconsciously allowed myself to temporarily step out of the Spiritual Realm and enter into the Earthly realm.  I behaved in a selfish way; my behavior dishonored a beloved Sister’s Spirit, and temporarily dimmed the light of both of our spirits. 

For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic.  James 3:15

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit; Instead, humbly think of others as being more significant than yourselves.  Philippians 2:3 

Can we prevent earthly traits/inclinations, from luring us away from our spiritual path?   … If so, How?

It is written:  I shall make you have insight and instruct you in the way you should go.  I will give advice with my eyes upon you.  Psalms 32:8

How do we gain this insight? … Where do we get this instruction? 

Vigilance in our spiritual studies, prayers, meditations, and regular association with “like-minded” people provide opportunities for us to gain insight and direction, as we navigate the Earthly Realm.  
  
With continued vigilance, we learn to see what is in our own hearts; we see what the Creator/God and the Divine Light/Jesus sees.  We become conscious of the Earthly traits/inclinations which often lead us out of the Spiritual Realm.  The sooner we realize that we are not thinking/acting in a way that is indicative of the Spiritual Realm, the sooner we can correct our thoughts/actions and return to it

If we take the time to process “how” we were lured off the path and “what” we have learned from the experience, we will grow both personally and spiritually (which by the way, is the overall goal of the Church of Ultra Light Consciousness.). 

Self is not ever to be in the forefront; the only true correction for selfishness is true humility.  Humility does not mean that we are obliged to believe or do everything others say, right or wrong; we are not blind to the Earthly traits/inclinations of others; however, honor and esteem are due to each and all.

True humility is having the willingness to view our own importance (needs/desires/opinions/etc.) as being less important than someone else’s importance, in spite of their Earthly traits/inclinations.   When we treat each other with honor and respect in our everyday common conversations and actions … building each other up, both in the Earthly and the Spiritual Realms … not waiting until respect is shown on one side to return it again. … we lead the way, serving as a guide in showing the honor and esteem due to each and all (which incidentally, is one of the spiritual responsibilities of all Church of Ultra Light Consciousness Ministers.). 
Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.  Romans 12:10     

Submit to one another out of respect for Christ.   Ephesians 5:21 

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers and sisters, be compassionate and keep a humble attitude.    1 Peter 3:8  

This is a hard lesson, and very few persons learn it thoroughly.  The Creator/God and the Divine Light/Jesus are served with our spirit, not with our minds.  It is in our spiritual best interest to make a conscious effort to listen with our hearts so that we may agree in spiritual truth; when we fall short of that, it will serve us well if we agree to disagree, in spiritual love and affection.  

When we are able to apply this lesson, we willingly perform humble tasks, without resentment, which may be of benefit to others.  This does not harm relationships; instead, it makes every yoke lighter.  When we genuinely prefer someone else’s experience, light and knowledge to our own - contentment, peace, harmony, love, order and unity are preserved in our relationships.

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light. Amen