Support System Sunday

-->According to the Bible, it is our responsibility to console, support and protect others during hard times.

Gal. 6:2 tells us: Go on carrying the burdens of one another, and thus fulfill the law of the (Divine Light/) Christ. 

Each of us can contribute to the well-being and growth of those around us, and beyond.  How do we do accomplish this responsibility?  We do this by striving to be, at all times, a source of encouragement and spiritual refreshment to others.

So, then, let us pursue the things making for peace and the things that are upbuilding to one another. Rom. 14:19   Above all things, have intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.  Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.  In proportion as each one has received a gift, use it in ministering to one another as fine stewards of God’s undeserved kindness expressed in various ways.  1 Peter 4: 8-10

Let us always be ready and willing to assist others.  Let us share as much as we can, as circumstances allow.   Let us be cheerful givers.  

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 reminds us: But as to this, he that sows sparingly will also reap sparingly; and he that sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 

It is up to each us to do the work to connect with others; no one can do it for us.  Sometimes this responsibility to our brothers and sisters can feel overwhelming, especially when fulfilling this responsibility interferes with our own wants and/or needs.  When this happens, let us remember that we are never really alone; the Creator/God, the Divine Light/Jesus and other Spirits are with us.  

Let us take our problems to the Creator/God.  Just as it is up to each us to do the work to connect with others, it is up to each of us to make the connection with the Creator/God.  Sometimes we allow ourselves to get so disconnected and frazzled that we can not reconnect.  The Creator/God knows this and recommends having a support system; it is vital to our success.   Success in most endeavors is a team effort, not a solo performance.      

Proverbs 15:22 states: There is a frustrating of plans where there is no confidential talk, but in the multitude of counselors there is accomplishment. 

A support system is a network of people who interact and remain in informal communication for mutual assistance; members of the network provide practical, emotional and/or spiritual support which sustains other members in their survival and growth, on an as needed basis. 

Successful support systems typically consist of a minimum of 3 people.   There are 2 main, beneficial, reasons for this:

1.     No one is available 24/7; the more people in our support system, the better chance we have of receiving the assistance we perceive we need. We will not always be there to shield others from life’s challenges. 

2.     When we stay focused on the goal of teaching another to stand on his/her own two feet, we are given the opportunity to help empower them.   

To help us stay focused on this goal, we can ask ourselves the following questions:

1.     What can the person asking for help reasonably do on their own? 

2.     Are there things we (the support system) are doing for this person, that they could do for themselves?   If yes, work with the person until sure that they can handle the responsibility on their own. 

3.     How much can each of us reasonably assist this person?

4.     What are our own personal boundaries?

5.     What are our support system group boundaries?

6.     What are the consequences to individual group members, the group at large and to the other person if the boundaries are not respected? Outline potential consequences of actions: good and bad.  In a very covert way, accepting the consequences of our actions helps us learn to rely on support only when necessary.  A good support person will not support a brother or sister in staying stuck.

For each one will carry his own load. Galatians 6:5

At times, we all need support. Let us never hesitate to accept help when struggling to cope.  Keep in mind, however, that if we do not trust a person, they really have no place in our support system.  People in our support system are the people, who, over time, get to know us; the real us.  In an effort to receive assistance, we often find ourselves sharing dis-harmonious/dis-eased thoughts and/or gut-wrenching emotions.  We must be able to trust those with whom we open up to and share our real “earthly” selves with. 

If a support person offers suggestions or options to assist us, we may choose to ignore them … If 2 support people tell us the same thing, it is usually in our best interest to listen … If 3 or more support people tell us the same thing, it is in our best interest to quit whining and take action by following or trying any suggestions or options given. 

Not all options or suggestions given, will work.  This does not mean that we should not do the footwork and try to implement them though.  When we shoot them down automatically, we disrespect and thereby abuse one or more members of our support system.   Let us be willing to do whatever it takes to move forward. 

Let us always accept any support we receive, with appreciation.  Let us never be demanding when asking others to help us handle our problems. Let us be reasonable in how much of their time and attention we expect them to give us.  Let us remember that our brothers and/or sisters may be unable to meet our needs.    

When this happens, let us continue to take our problems to the Creator/God and have faith that the Creator/God will sustain us in whatever trials we may face.

Whether we are giving or receiving help, let us do so in the right spirit.

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

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Stewardship: Part 2 of 3

This is the 2nd of 3 Discourses on Stewardship.  Part 1 was a brief attempt to Inform the Public.  Part 2 discusses The Spiritual Aspects of Stewardship, and Part 3 will provide some action steps we can take to be better Earth Stewards.

Part 2: The Spiritual Aspects of Stewardship

The Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh was asked
what we need to do to save our world.
“What we most need to do,” he replied,
“is to hear within us the sound of the earth crying.”

Around the world, leaders of the great religious/spiritual traditions respect and care for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants.  These spiritual leaders have been taught that, despite diversity in teachings and traditions, it IS our spiritual duty to care for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants. 

The Scriptures very clearly state our human responsibility to the Creator/God for the care of Mother Earth and all her inhabitants.  Over and over throughout the bible, starting at the beginning of Genesis through the end of Revelation, mandates regarding our role and responsibility as Earth Stewards are clear.

Despite the clearness of these scriptures, Earth-based spirituality was banned by the early Christian Church in Rome.  As a result, many modern-day Christian and Jewish spiritual leaders have not heard or read this teaching; just as often, those that have heard or read it, have dismissed and/or forgotten the teaching.

“… the ox knows his duty, but humans have forgotten their Lord.” Isaiah 1:3

The Bible tells us that Mother Earth was created with humans in mind. We were created from the dust of the earth. 

”The first man is out of the earth and made of dust …” Corinthians 15:47

“And Jehovah God proceeded to form the man out of dust from the ground and to blow into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man came to be a living soul.”  Genesis 2:7

“In the sweat of your face you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken.  For dust you are and to dust you will return.” Genesis 3: 19  

“For he himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust.”  Psalm 103:14  

“All are going to one place.  They have all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust.”  Ecclesiastic 3:20

Being but a speck of dust, in the cosmos, at large, connects us to the earth. 

“God . . . did not create it (Mother Earth) simply for nothing [but] formed it even to be inhabited.”  Isaiah 45:18 

The Creator/God endowed Mother Earth with everything that her inhabitants needed, not just to exist, but to joyfully flourish.  Many micro-ecosystems enable life to flourish.  

 Early on in the bible, humans were given stewardship of Mother Earth and all her inhabitants.  To tend and keep the garden is one of the first mandates in the bible regarding the care of Mother Earth and her inhabitants.  

“And Jehovah God proceeded to take the man and settle him in the garden of E′den to cultivate it and to take care of it.” Genesis 2:15

We were also given dominion over creation and charged with stewardship of its bounty.

“Further, God blessed them and God said to them: “Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth.” Genesis 1:28

“For every species of wild beast as well as bird and creeping thing and sea creature is to be tamed and has been tamed by humankind.” James 3:7  

All who serve the Creator/God are Earth Stewards.  To tend and take care of Mother Earth and all her inhabitants is a great honor and privilege.  To be entrusted to tend and take care of Mother Earth and all her inhabitants is also a great responsibility. 

 As Earth Stewards for the Creator/God, we are allowed to utilize Mother Earth and her inhabitants.  We are not, however, given a license, or free reign to abuse, rape, ravage, pollute or ruin in any other manner, any part of her or her inhabitants. 

“We … do not destroy the harmony of nature … We care for and nurture our environment, trying to be all-forbearing like Mother Earth.  This gives us union with all existence, all the creatures which live in the world: wild animals, little crawling things, even men.” (San Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico)

As a whole, humans are not living up to the spiritual responsibility we were mandated to fulfill.  Rather than cultivating Mother Earth and taking care of her, and all her inhabitants, we abuse and desecrate our environment to such a degree, that sacred substance has all but disappeared. 

The way that we treat Mother Earth and her inhabitants, reflect our individual and collective values.  The second mandate given by the Creator/God, to humans, is to love our neighbors as ourselves. Ignoring and/or neglecting our spiritual responsibility to care for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants, directly contributes to the suffering of our human and non-human brothers and sisters. 

Around the world, more than 50% of all of the problems humans currently face can be directly and/or indirectly linked to environmental issues. Polluted drinking water, genetically modified seeds and food, toxic chemicals via agricultural herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, growth hormones, etc., are all major causes of death and disease. Barren soil and poor crops play a significant role in urbanization, poverty and hunger. The list goes on and on.

When we act as good Earth Stewards, we care about Mother Earth and all her inhabitants.  This includes, but is not limited to:  the trees, the fields, the plants, the air, the rivers and oceans, the hills and mountains, the wild animals, the livestock, the domestic animals, the birds, the fish, the reptiles, the insects, etc.  We recognize that each has an intrinsic value which does not include being a resource/raw material to be exploited for human consumption and/or commerce. 

Mother Earth and her inhabitants exist for all of us, as well as for future generations. We must not destroy it to meet our immediate wants.  We each have a spiritual duty to leave the world in a better state.  When our actions show respect for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants, we are exhibiting love for the Creator/God, which is the first mandate given to us. 

“Let all creation rejoice before the Lord.”  Psalm 96:13 

Let us fulfill the mandates to love the Creator/ God, to love our neighbors as ourselves, and to care for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants.

Let us Pray:

The manifestation of each of your children is beautiful and each contributes to your beauty. A clear lake, a green pine, a pink cloud, a snow-capped mountain top, a fragrant forest, a white crane, a golden deer... these miraculous manifestations of life are all your children and each one of them enhances and magnifies your beauty. Your children include millions of species, each with its own language. Since you are our Mother, you understand all these languages, including the languages of humans. You are a planet, Mother of all beings, not just of humans, therefore we feel very at ease every time we talk to you and offer you our prayer. We are all your children, and at the same time, we are you, for you are fully present in each one of us.

There are those of us lacking right thinking, who consider this place on which we live to be separate from the Pure Land. They advise us to reject this land and to aspire to be reborn in a faraway Pure Land. They do not know that if their minds are calm and pure, filled with love, if they have the capacity to transform compost into flowers, to use mud to grow lotuses, then they will see that their afflictions are in fact realizations and that this very land is already the Pure Land. They do not know that their way of perceiving has a lot to do with whether or not this is the Pure Land. Each physical manifestation on your body, such as a floating cloud or a falling leaf is sufficient for us to see the no-birth and no-death, no being and no non-being nature of reality. We then can appreciate and enjoy life fully, without being fearful or worrying about being or non-being, having or not having, increasing or decreasing, being the same or being different.  (Thich Nhat Hanh, Intimate Conversations with Mother Earth: The Earth is Not the Environment—the Earth is Us)

 

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

Please join us next week as we outline some action steps we can take to be better Earth Stewards.

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Religious Use of Crystals and Other Stones: Part 2 of 2

As we learned last week, most cultures have used crystals and/or other stones religiously/spiritually for a very long time. This week we will seek to answer the question:  Is crystal healing spiritually acceptable? 

 

The use of crystals and/or other stones in spiritual healing, is an ancient Spiritually-based modality which utilizes Vibratory Spiritual Energy (Universal Life Energy, Prana, Chi, Ki, Holy Spirit, etc.).

 In 1150, Saint Hildegard documented how the vibrational energy in crystals works; crystals store energy in their molecules and magnify/radiate electromagnetic energy which vibrates to one, or more, of seven specific light ray frequencies found in the universe.  Each of the seven different colors of light rays (blue, yellow, pink, white, green, red, and purple), vibrate at a different energy frequency in the universe.  

Angels, like crystals and/or other stones, also vibrate to the different color/light ray frequencies in the universe.   

Many people use crystals and/or other stones, to invoke help from the spirit world.  Throughout history, people have used crystals and/or other stones, to help them connect to the Spirit Realm; e.g., angels.  Most people use crystals and/or other stones that correspond to the energy frequencies of a specific angelic being and prayerfully invoke the assistance of this angelic being, to help heal another. 

"Crystals, like angels, are a thread that unites all cultures across the planet throughout time. If angels are the golden thread that pulls all religions together, then crystals are the silver one that, if we hold onto it tightly, will pull every person and culture on mother Earth together as God intended it to be. ... Each soul on this Earth has an ancient crystal knowledge buried within them that enables them to communicate with the elemental kingdom and re-connect themselves with the powerful rhythm of life that pulses around us in cosmic and divine alignment."  (Claire Robertson, The Angel Within.)

The Bible, the Torah, and the Qur’an warn us to be very careful though, as we might connect with dark, fallen angels, instead of holy angels of light. They are not alone in their warning to us.

“The Shadows are out there: They exist, in the invisible world that parallels our own, living creatures. . . . The terms ‘Imp’, ‘Evil Spirit’ and ‘Demon’ are fairly accurate. They are very strong. . . . The most intelligent variety . . . are capable (if someone is helpful enough to open a doorway for them) of entering our world. . . . They can enter your body . . . , even asserting a degree of control over you. Yes, this is exactly like the old stories of Demon possession.” (Anonymous promoter of witchcraft).

In an effort to reduce our light, the dark does it's best to slip through the smallest of pinholes.  Its’ goal is to distract and mislead us from developing a personal relationship with the Creator/God.

When using crystals and/or other stones for healing purposes, there is no need for us to be afraid of the dark; we simply need to be aware enough to notice it, if it shows up, and stop it from succeeding in its' mission. 

A small percentage of crystal healers are involved in what is known as the occult; the occult refers to what is hidden from the physical senses, and is usually viewed as being outside of the realm of traditional scientific observation. 

Some people, hoping to gain knowledge, especially about the future, have gazed into crystal balls, hoping to find divine answers to their questions.  This is a form of divination, and is often viewed as being spiritually dangerous, and something to be avoided.  

"Many legends and tales speak of its use. Its practice is found in Greece, Rome, and throughout Mesopotamia. The Druids of England utilized gazing, as did people in Scotland, France, Germany, and elsewhere throughout Europe. Egypt, India, Babylon, and Persia also had their crystal-gazing practitioners."  (Ted Andrews.  Crystal Balls & Crystal Bowls: Tools for Ancient Scrying & Modern Seership.)

In the bible, divination is not forbidden for those who were anointed by the Creator/God; e.g., the priests.  They were exempt and performed divination rituals inside the temple, during times of sacrifice and to divine the Creator’s/God’s will. 

As noted last week, Aaron’s breastplate contained the crystals known as the Urim (lights) and the Thummim (perfections), and were used to help him discern answers, from the Creator/God, for the people.  Exodus 28:30

In Tibetan Buddhism, “the motivation for performing divinations must always be pure - done solely to bring relief for the suffering of all beings and not for one's own personal gain or fame.”  Lama Dawa Rinpoche

In the Bible and Torah, those not of the priestly class, are cautioned to never try to learn about anything in the future, as this is a form of divination.

"Let no one be found among you who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to God."  Deuteronomy 18:10-12

The Qur’an also cautions us to avoid divination practices.

"O ye who believe! Intoxicants and gambling, (dedication of) stones, and (divination by) arrows, are an abomination; of Satan's handwork: eschew such (abomination), that ye may prosper."  Qur’an: Surah V. 90

The power of the Creator/God is far greater than the power of the Occult.  Developing and maintaining a direct connection with the Divine Light/Christ Consciousness, and a personal relationship with the Creator/God, is our greatest protection from the influences of the dark forces. 

“Subject yourselves, therefore, to God; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you ….”  James 4:7-8

Crystals and other stones are created by the Creator itself. There is nothing dark or evil about crystals and/or other stones, themselves. When they are used to bring glory to the Creator/God by helping and healing other people, they can, with the Creator's/God’s help, stimulate spiritual growth, bring about positive personal transformation and lead to a healthier state of being. 
  

Let us develop and/or maintain a direct connection with the Divine Light/Christ Consciousness.  Let us develop and/or maintain a personal relationship with the Creator/God, and if we are guided to use crystals and/or other stones, let us glorify the Creator/God by prayerfully invoking the assistance of the holy angels of light, on behalf of others, not ourselves.

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

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Religious Use of Crystals and Other Stones: Part 1 of 2

Throughout recorded history, in nearly every culture, stones have been used for religious purposes.

There is a long history of the use of crystals for spiritual purposes amongst indigenous peoples, including, but not limited to the Incans, the Mayans, and the Native Americans.  The 5,000+ year old sacred Hindu text, known as the Vedas, contains lengthy discussions regarding the power of crystals and their use.  The Islam religion strongly recommended it's adherents to wear different stones, especially during prayer, as a way to increase their faith, piety, and endurance.

 

Muslims believe that a black stone fell from heaven to Earth; they call this the Black Stone of Kaaba.

The Kaaba "is believed to be a replica of the house of God in the seventh heaven, where God’s throne is located." (Malcolm Clark, Islam For Dummies)

"Regarded by some as a meteorite, the black stone symbolizes God’s right hand, thus touching or pointing to it reenacts the covenant between God and man, that is, man’s acknowledgement of God’s lordship."  (Lloyd V. J. Ridgeon, Major World Religions: From Their Origins to the Present)

“the remains of what Muslims believe is the altar that Abraham built. Popular legends say that the black stone is a meteorite worshiped by pre-Muslims. Some believe that the ancient stone was brought from a nearby mountain by the archangel Gabriel and that it was originally white; its black color comes from it having absorbed people’s sins. In a rite called tawaf, which they perform three times during the hajj, they circumambulate the Kaaba counterclockwise seven times. ... Each time pilgrims pass the black stone they recite a prayer from the Qur’an. 'In the name of God, and God is supreme.' If they can, pilgrims approach the Kaaba and kiss it ... or they make a gesture of kissing the Ka’ba each time if they cannot reach it.” (Davidson and Gitlitz, Pilgrimage: From the Ganges to Graceland: An Encyclopedia, Volume 1)

The Bible alone has over 200 references to uses of crystals and stones. The Book of Exodus recorded the stones to be used for the breastplate of the high priest, Aaron.  The purpose of the breastplate was to help Aaron “spiritually discern answers to the people's questions that he asked God while praying in the tabernacle.”  (Whitney Hopler, Sacred Stones: The High Priest’s Breastplate Gems in the Bible and Torah) 

"They fashioned the breastplate -- the work of a skilled craftsman. They made it like the ephod: of gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely twisted linen. It was square -- a span long and a span wide -- and folded double. Then they mounted four rows of precious stones on it. The first row was ruby, chrysolite and beryl; the second row was turquoise, sapphire and emerald; the third row was jacinth, agate and amethyst; the fourth row was topaz, onyx and jasper. They were mounted in gold filigree settings. There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel, each engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes." Exodus 39:8-14

"Also put the Urim (lights) and the Thummim (perfections) in the breastplate, so they may be over Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the Lord. Thus Aaron will always bear the means of making decisions for the Israelites over his heart before the Lord." Exodus 28:30

“Urim and Thummim of the old desert religion of the present day Jews, are actually crystals. Through its light, they know what their God, YHWH, wants to say.” (Noel Sales Barcelona)

The book of Revelation recorded the stones that were to be found in the celestial New Jerusalem (Heaven). 
 
"It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. Revelation 21:11, 18-20

Jasper: Jasper is mentioned several times in the book of Revelation, has been identified as the 1st foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven). In the Greek and Latin texts it is the 6^th foundation stone. Regardless of which position it is in, it is, without a doubt, the yshphh spoken of in the Hebrew text. It represents one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel and have been associated with the tribe of Benjamin.

Sapphire/Lapis Luzuli: The term “Sapphire” (sapphiros) is mentioned many times in the Bible. Having said that, it is important to note that the sapphire we are familiar with is most likely not, the same sapphire. Historical descriptions of the biblical stone sound much more like lapis luzuli, than sapphire. It has been identified as the 2nd foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven). It represents one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel and have been associated with the tribe of Dan. In Buddhism, Buddha has been called the "Healing Master of Lapis Lazuli Radiance,” as he meditated on Lapis Lazuli.  Ancient Sumarians also valued Lapis.

"He who carries with him into battle an amulet of Lapis carries with him the presence of God".  (This was a popular saying amongst ancient Sumarian Priests.) 

Chalcedony/Carbuncle/Chodchod/Ruby: In the Old Testament, the terms Chalcedony, Carbuncle, Chodchod and Ruby are used interchangeably to describe a stone which sounds very much like the Oriental ruby or Spinel Ruby. Chalcedony has been identified as the 3th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It represents one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel and have been associated with the tribe of Juda.  

Emerald: Emerald has been identified as the 4th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It represents one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel and have been associated with the tribe of Levi.

 Sardonyx/Sard/Onyx:  Historical descriptions of the biblical stone Chrysolite have identified it as modern day Onyx.  It has been identified as the 5th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It represents one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel and have been associated with the tribe of Joseph. 
 
Carnelian: Carnelian has been identified as the 6th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It is one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. It has been associated with the tribe of Ruben. Many Muslim’s follow Muhammad’s lead and wear Carnelian, to guarantee Allah’s fulfillment of desires.

Chrysolite/Peridot: Historical descriptions of the biblical stone Chrysolite have identified it as modern day Peridot. It has been identified as the 7th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It is one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. It has been associated with the tribe of Zabulon.

Beryl: Beryl is generally identified as the 8th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It is one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. It has been associated with the tribe of Nephtali.

Topaz: In the Greek language, Topaz comes from the term chrusolithos, which literally means ” gold stone.” Although consensus has yet to be reached, it most likely refers to present day golden topaz. Topaz is the 9th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven);

Chrysoprase/Chrysoprasus/Agate: Chrysoprase/Chrysoprasus have been identified as the 10^th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven). Chrysoprasus was not well known among the ancients; it may very well be the same stone as we know as modern day Agate.  Agate is one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. It has been associated with the tribe of Aser.

Jacinth/Hyacinth: Jacinth/Hyacinth has been identified as the 10^th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven). This stone was most likely also called Ligurus, which is one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. It has been associated with the tribe of Gad.

Amethyst: Amethyst is the 12th foundation stone of the celestial New Jerusalem (heaven).  It is one of the ten stones, on the breastplate, which were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel. It has been associated with the tribe of Issachar.

PEARL: The King James Version of the Bible was the first time the term pearl was used; prior to that it was known as “Margarite.”  Pearls were considered among the most precious stones in the ancient world.  Both the Incas and the Aztecs held pearls in high esteem.

CRYSTAL: Crystal/Ice has been placed in the same category as gold, onyx, sapphire, glass, coral, topaz, etc. Job 28:17  Tibetan Monks viewed Quartz Crystals as powerful holy objects.  Taoists referred to Quartz Crystals as the "Gem of Enlightenment." 

As we have just learned, most cultures have used crystals and/or other stones religiously for a very long time. Many believe that it is spiritually wrong to work with crystals and/or other stones. Is crystal healing spiritually acceptable?  Please join us next week to learn the answer to this question, and more. 

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

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This Little Light of Mine …

This Little Light of Mine …

Was written around 1920 by musical composer and teacher, Harry Dixon Loes. Although many think of it as a Negro spiritual, it has never been found in any 19^th century jubilee or plantation collection.  In 1939, the song entered the folk tradition. In the 50’s and 60’s, it became the anthem for the Civil Rights movement.

No one seems to know for certain, the true history behind the lyrics.  It has been speculated by many/most to be based upon one or more of the following scriptures:

"You are the light of the world. A city cannot be hid when situated upon a mountain.  Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Likewise, Let your light shine before men, that they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens."  Matthew 5:14-16  

"After lighting a candle, a person puts it, not in a vault nor under a bushel, but upon a lampstand, that those stepping in may behold the light." Luke 11:33 

In the song, we shine our light so bright that all the world can see, every day, in every way; we are not hiding our light from the world under a bushel basket; we are not letting it dim or go out.

Sometimes though, without our even noticing it, our light begins to dim. When this happens, we often want to retreat from the world, and hide our light.  If we allow ourselves to get to this point, we often begin to feel that we are alone in the dark.

It is universally agreed upon that any/all of the following have the ability to dim our light.

• People who are negative/Criticize us
• Negative/critical self-talk
• Being over-tired
• Over committing ourselves to anything
• Agreeing to do things our heart isn’t in
• Acting like a martyr
• Overindulging in junk food, sex, drugs and/or alcohol, etc.
• Being false to our true spirit
• Being stuck in clutter, disorganization and/or confusion.

Keeping our light shining brightly requires personal dedication and commitment.  Once we become aware of our own inner light, we need to respect it and honor it, by keeping an eye on it and cherishing it; we need to put the welfare of our inner light above any/all other things.  If we do not do this, unwanted dimness has a way of creeping in.

Allowing for some individual variation, here are some things we can do if we find our light starting to dim. 

• Listen to Motivational music.
• Watch Motivational videos
• Read Motivational books, articles, etc.
• Spend time with Inspiring, positive people
• Engage in Positive self-talk
• Eat Healthy nutritious food
• Get enough Sleep
• Exercise regularly
• Get plenty of fresh air
• Engage in hobbies/activities that are fun
• Stimulate the Creative part of our brain
• Help someone with something … ANYTHING
• Make a difference
• Move forward on a goal
• Work toward making our Dreams … our Reality
• Live authentically

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence our LOVE automatically liberates others." Speech by Nelson Mandela, written by Marianne Williamson 

We can keep our own personal, little light lit and shining brightly, every day, every way.  We do have a choice. 

Let us choose to be a beacon of light for those who are stumbling or lost in the darkness.   Let Your Light Shine (youtube video)

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

The Lost Art of Discernment: Part 1 of 2

We can not have lasting Unity if we do not Develop Spiritually enough to break through our "egoic" illusions, which are often too painful for many to "see."  With few exceptions, we can not Develop Spiritually enough, if we do not "Consciously" strive to Personally Grow through/from our beliefs/perceptions/experiences/traumas/etc.​

As we Personally Grow, we "let go" of what is no longer beneficial to us .  As we "let go" of our beliefs/perceptions/experiences/traumas/etc., we begin to be grateful for our pain, as we recognize it is a great teacher.  (Of course, we usually do not like it, while we are going through it.).   With this recognition, we can begin to break through our "egoic" illusions and Develop Spiritually …or perhaps it would be more accurate to say Develop Religiously.

Whoa there … Wait a Minute … Hold On … Develop Religiously?  Why would we want to do that?  Afterall, religion is tragically and shamefully responsible for a lot of pain and suffering … Isn’t it?

The answer to that question is NO … It is Religions themselves (note the plurals here), that are tragically and shamefully responsible for a lot of pain and suffering in the world.  As we learned last week, mainstream religion assists the (D)evil by functioning as the wild beast. (FMI: please refer to last week’s post: “Where are YOU Marked?”)

“Religions are an organized collection of belief systems, cultural systems, and world views that relate humanity to spirituality and, sometimes, to moral values.”  (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion)

Religion itself (note the singular here), has nothing to do with religions (plural).  Religion is simply man's way of having a conscious relationship with the Creator/God, as opposed to the Creator/God having a relationship with us (which is Spirituality).

“Religion is man relating to God and doing so in his terms of reference.  Spirituality is God reaching out to man in love and man responding.”   Kenneth Meyers, Berea Teologiese Kollege

So how do we learn to develop and/or improve our conscious relationship with the Creator/God? 

The key to this answer can be found in the Sacred Holy foundational texts.  These foundational texts serve as conceptual reference bricks in our very own, personal Spiritual Foundation, and Religious Development.  
   

In order for a Sacred Holy foundational text to serve as a conceptual reference brick, it needs to be completely inspired by the Creator and free of dogma (a definite authoritative point of view put forth without adequate grounds).  

These books were not written by humans, and their own interpretations, but through the inspired wisdom of the Holy Spirit which guided their tongues when they spoke and their hands when they wrote.​​

​For it was not through any human whim that men prophesied of old;  men they were, but, impelled by the Holy Spirit, they spoke the words of God.  2 Peter 1:21

These Sacred Holy foundational texts TEACH the same conceptual  “WORD of the CREATOR/GOD,”and were given to us by the same Creator/God.  Unfortunately, we often get caught up in the meaning or translation of words.  If we step out of our own individual box of definitions, and look at the overall concepts these books teach;  if we stop looking at the individual trees, and look at the forest, we will find that the Sacred Holy foundational texts have stood the test of time; they have proved themselves to be the “WORD of the CREATOR/GOD.”

Which Sacred Holy foundational text we use is irrelevant. Throughout history, religions (plural) have drawn on each others texts for material. No text is more or less true than another.  What is important, is that we pick one that resonates with us; one that will assist us in building our own, personal Spiritual Foundation, and ultimately well lead us into conscious union with the Divine Light/Jesus and the Creator/God.   

Whereas we KNOW that the Holy Bible is but one of MANY Books that TEACH the same conceptual “WORD of the CREATOR/God, we have chosen to use the Holy Bible.
  
Regardless of which text we use personally, it is wise to seek out others who are familiar with the text we have chosen.  Do not be afraid to seek advice, ask questions or ask for clarification.   

​"It is excellent to seek advice about everything, but only from those with experience. It is dangerous to ask questions of the inexperienced, because they do not possess discrimination." Saint Peter of Damaskos

Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps.  Proverbs 14:15

 

This where Teachers come into play … Teachers strive to uphold the pure language of truth, without dogma … Teachers help us learn “how” to think critically, by presenting more than one side of an issue and encouraging us to evaluate and scrutinize any/all information presented, make up our own mind regarding what to accept as truth, or reject as false … Teachers show us, through devotion, how to create a bond of unity with the Creator/God, and each other, that is impossible to break.

“Real devotion is an unbroken receptivity to the truth. Real devotion is rooted in an awed and reverent gratitude, but one that is lucid, grounded, and intelligent.”  The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

To be such a teacher is a heavy Spiritual Responsibility.  The words teachers use, both spoken and written, guide people’s thinking.  It is all too easy, for teachers to succumb to their own, imperfect, “egoic” perceptions (beliefs and biases) and offer explanations based on these perceptions.

“Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment. For we all stumble many times.  If anyone does not stumble in word, this one is a perfect man, able to bridle also [his] whole body.” James 3: 1-2

When this happens, the teacher stops being a teacher, and becomes a propagandist.  Propagandists sift through, distort and twist facts, and ‘delude us with persuasive arguments.’  (Colossians 2:4), by only presenting facts that will support their view(s).   Once they have convinced us to support their slanted view, it is easy to then tell us “what” to think.

Can a teacher avoid becoming a propagandist?  Can we, individually, avoid being fooled by propaganda?  Thankfully the answer to these questions is YES.  We are not left on our own. The Creator/God  trains us by giving us wisdom, knowledge, and discernment. (Proverbs 2:6, Acts 1:8)  

This training can be provided in two ways. The first way is via the receipt of the spiritual gift of the holy spirit. (Acts 20:28;  Galatians 5:22, 23, 1 Corinthians 12:10). The second way is via discernment of one or more Sacred Holy foundational text.

These conceptual reference bricks  provide great wisdom and serve as guides for our thinking.  By keeping an open mind to receive new information,  and weighing such new information against the Sacred Holy foundational text(s) we have chosen, we let go of old knowledge that is no longer valid, and attract new experience and knowledge  As we attract new experience and knowledge, our truth changes accordingly. 

While truth itself does not change, our perception of what is true changes.  This is because truth can only be  perceived/understood within the context of experience and knowledge.  Throughout the centuries, “truths” of all sorts, have been accepted by the masses, only to be proved wrong later. What is true today, may not be true tomorrow.  As our truth changes, we adjust our “current” pattern of thinking.

EXAMPLE:  The Teaching of Purgatory:

The doctrine of Purgatory evolved as a clarification concerning the state of souls between death and the judgement  (… humans are responsible and accountable for their thoughts and actions, and that in different ways their thoughts and actions now will affect their future outcome. [The Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, 1997, p. 514]).  The doctrine of purgatory was openly rejected at the Reformation (early 16^th century ) and Protestants denied it as unscriptural. (Ibid. p. 777). 

Catholics, however, adopted the doctrine.  In the 1960’s, their own research (experience & knowledge) proved to them that the doctrine of purgatory is not, in fact, based on scripture.  As a result of this new-found truth, they humbly adjusted their pattern of thinking.

After reviewing what Catholic writers have said... the New Catholic Encyclopedia (1967, Vol. XI, p. 1034) acknowledges: “In the final analysis, the Catholic doctrine on purgatory is based on tradition, not Sacred Scripture.”  “The church has relied on tradition to support a middle ground between heaven and hell.” U.S. Catholic, March 1981, p. 7.

Let this example serve to remind us to not follow popular opinion …  Let us not be brainwashed by propaganda … Let us not be fools … Instead, let us come back next week and begin to learn the lost art of discernment.

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

Where Are YOU Marked?

The Creator/God told the Israelites

“You must apply these words of mine to your heart and soul and bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they serve as a frontlet band between your eyes.” Deuteronomy 11:18  

In the Bible, this was a Law that the Israelites were commanded to keep.   They were to remember it constantly, and allow it to influence all their thoughts and actions. They showed others, by their actions and personalities, to be worshipers  and consecrated spiritual servants of the Creator/God.  Those who had this law in their heart typically spoke of it often, both to help themselves, and to teach others.

And it must serve for you as a sign upon your hand and as a memorial between your eyes, in order that God’s law may prove to be in your mouth; because by a strong hand God brought you out of Egypt. Exodus 13:9

As time passed, the spirit of this law was lost; it was no longer spoken of, nor was the law in the hearts of the most people.  As a result, some began to make and wear phylacteries * on their forehead and/or on their LEFT hand.   These phylacteries were worn as a constant visual reminder of ones personal obligation to the Creator/God; they were always worn when reading the law, and during prayer. 

And it must serve as a sign upon your hand and as a frontlet band between your eyes, because by strength of hand God brought us out of Egypt.”  Exodus 13:16

There are several other scriptures, in the Bible, which speak of symbolic sacred marks/signs of dedication.  All of these marks symbolized dedication to the Creator/God  and served as reminders to continuously serve him.  (Exodus 28:36-38, 39:30,  Deuteronomy 6:6-8,  Isaiah 44:5 , 49:16, Revelation 7:2-5, 14:1)

Not to be outdone, the (D)evil implemented his own law; a law that very closely imitates the Creator’s/God’s Law. To wage war with the holy ones and accomplish his mission, he also uses a mark on the forehead or hand,. The demonic mark of the wild beast on the forehead or RIGHT hand symbolizes devotion, giving attention to, and/or active support to the wild beast.

This biblical wild beast has a name, and its name is actually a number: 666.  Some believe that 666 signifies some form of compulsory tattoo; the bible itself tells us that this is untrue.  Under Mosaic Law, Israelites were prohibited from tattooing humans. Leviticus 19:28  

Others believe that it signifies some type of implanted identification, like a microchip.  This also is untrue; however, as we will soon discover via the Obamacare Health Plan, it may, in fact, be utilized in the near future as a tool used by the wild beast to help accomplish the (D)evil’s mission.   

 

These interpretations are very different from what the Bible itself says about the mark of the wild beast.  The Creator/God, the very personification of love and the Source of spiritual light, has not kept his servants in the dark regarding this matter.

All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness.  2 Timothy 3:16

 And this is the message which we have heard from him and are announcing to you, that God is light and there is no darkness at all in union with him. 1 John 1:5

Names serve as a source of identification. The Apostle John says that  the number 666 is a man’s number, not a spirit person; this helps to confirm that the wild beast is from the earthly realm, not the spiritual realm.

In his eighth vision, John sees how the (D)evil maneuvers man-made, political systems (kingdoms) to claim universal jurisdiction over all people, and compels them to do his will.  

“And it puts under compulsion all persons, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free and the slaves, that they should give these a mark in their right hand or upon their forehead, and that nobody might be able to buy or sell except a person having the mark, the name of the wild beast or the number of its name. Here is where wisdom comes in: Let the one that has intelligence calculate the number of the wild beast, for it is a man’s number; and its number is six hundred and sixty-six.” Revelation 13:16-18 

It is generally agreed that the world’s political systems, under the guises of  big politics, mainstream religion and big business (including banks, as well as the insurance and health care industries), wield universal jurisdiction via supreme human rulership/wordly power.  Although full consensus has yet to be attained, it is also generally agreed upon that the world’s political systems, assist the (D)evil by functioning as the wild beast.

In an effort to create maximum human suffering, universal jurisdiction extends to cover all aspects of our everyday lives. Universal jurisdiction includes, but is not limited to:

• endorsement of abusive indulgences
• consumerism and materialism
• violent persecutions and prohibitions
• food supply
• employment and finances
• health care
• environment
• ability to buy and/or sell
• education
• acts of oppression
• promoting divisions and maintaining duality 

It (universal jurisdiction) is a spiritual ploy used to draw people away from worshiping the Creator/God, and to subject people to the will and control of this man-made political system.  It’s number one ally is fear.  Making  people support and slave for the wild  beast, is a cruel use of power.  

Those having the mark of the wild beast, whether on the RIGHT hand or on the forehead, publicly identify themselves as one who supports the beastlike political systems of the world, and therefore are as slaves to it.  Oftentimes, when we bear the mark of the wild beast, we look to it (the political system) to protect and save us (from the wild beast itself).  Remember it’s number one ally is fear. 

It is prudent to ask ourselves, will it really save us?  The Apostle John tells us that those receiving the mark of the beast on their forehead or on their RIGHT hand are in line for destruction. Whenever we worship the wild beast, we are in direct opposition to the Creator/God, for the wild beast receives its authority from the (D)evil.

Accepting the mark of the wild beast on our RIGHT hand or upon our forehead is akin to allowing the wild beast to affect our thinking and control our actions.

We are both legally and spiritually obligated to subject ourselves willingly to government authority, other public officials and authority figures (1 Peter 2:13-18, Romans 13:1, 5-7) however, when authorities command us to act contrary to God’s law, we “obey God as ruler rather than men.” Acts 5:29

Throughout history, those who have refused to accept the mark of the wild beast, have faced many problems.  It takes great determination to remain clean and pure, and trust that the Creator/God will protect and save us from the wild beast.  

The world is a difficult place for those who do not have the mark of the wild beast; it takes great faith and self-discipline to endure.  

Despite any hardships we may encounter in carrying out our everyday activities, we should not allow ourselves to be pressured into letting the wild beast rule our lives by affecting our thinking and/or controlling our actions. Those who gain victory over the wild beast glorify the Creator/God. Understanding what the wild beast is, helps us so that we neither follow it with admiration, worship it, or support it.

May One/ALL choose to worship the Creator/God, and refuse to receive the mark of the wild beast.  May we use our lives and assets in support of the Creator’s/God’s government/kingdom, serving its interest, not the interests of an earthly government/kingdom.  Psalm 34:1-3, Romans 14:7-8

Let our hearts be filled with the word of the Creator/God. Lay up these words in your hearts, as in a store-house, to be used upon all occasions. Let our eyes be fixed upon the word of  the Creator/God: Bind them for a sign upon your hand, which is always in view, and as frontlets between your eyes, which you cannot avoid the sight of. Let our tongues be employed about the word of the Creator/God, remind them of their duty, to love and serve the Divine Light/Jesus.  ~ via Anonymous

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

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

* Phylacteries

It was customary to use phylacteries long before Moses entered Egypt.  It is unknown whether Moses adopted this custom or not.  It is biblically logical to assume, that if he did, he would have explained to the people the difference between phylacteries and amulets. Some modern day Israelites still wear phylacteries; those that do, generally allege this precept as a justification for their continued use.

So, what exactly are phylacteries?  Phylacteries were generally made to be worn on the forehead or the LEFT hand, and served as constant visual reminders of ones personal obligation to the Creator/God.  It is important to remember that the  overall purpose of phylacteries were to enable the wearer to eventually receive the words into their heart and soul, and visibly display their servanthood to the Creator/God, by their own words and actions.

“… apply these words of mine to your heart and soul and bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they serve as a frontlet band between your eyes.” Deuteronomy 11:18  

Phylacteries worn on the forehead (the frontlets) consisted of  a single piece of skin or leather which rested on the forehead, between the eyes, and tied at the back of the head.  One side of the skin/leather, consisted of four individual compartments.  Each compartment held a rolled piece of papyrus or parchment.  One of four, specific Mosaic text were transcribed on each rolled piece of papyrus/parchment.  

Those which were designed for the hand, consisted of one piece of rolled papyrus/parchment,  This papyrus/parchment was divided up into four column.  One of four, specific Mosaic texts were transcribed onto each column,  The  papyrus/parchment was then rolled and tied much like a bracelet, on the inside of the LEFT wrist, nearest the heart.   

The first compartment/column consisted of Exodus 13:2-10

 “Sanctify to me every male firstborn that opens each womb among the sons of Israel, among men and beasts. It is mine.”

And Moses went on to say to the people: “Let there be a remembering  of this day on which you went out of Egypt, from the house of slaves, because by strength of hand God brought you out from here.  So nothing leavened may be eaten. Today you are going out in the month of A′bib. And it must occur that when God will have brought you into the land of the Ca′naan·ites and the Hit′tites and the Am′or·ites and the Hi′vites and the Jeb′u·sites, which he swore to your forefathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, then you must render this service in this month. Seven days you are to eat unfermented cakes,and on the seventh day is a festival to God. Unfermented cakes are to be eaten for the seven days; and nothing leavened is to be seen with you, and no sourdough is to be seen with you within all your boundaries. And you must tell your son on that day, saying, ‘It is because of that which God has done to me when I came out of Egypt.’And it must serve for you as a sign upon your hand and as a memorial between your eyes, in order that God’s law may prove to be in your mouth;  because by a strong hand God brought you out of Egypt. And you must keep this statute at its appointed time from year to year.

The second compartment/column consisted of Exodus 13:11-16  

And it must occur that when God brings you into the land of the Ca′naan·ites, just as he has sworn to you and to your forefathers, and when he does give it to you,  then you must devote everyone that opens the womb to God, and every firstling, the young of a beast, which will come to be yours. The males belong to God. And every firstling ass you are to redeem with a sheep, and if you will not redeem it, then you must break its neck. And every firstborn of man among your sons you are to redeem.

And it must occur that in case your son should inquire of you later on, saying, ‘What does this mean?’ then you must say to him, ‘By strength of hand God brought us out of Egypt, from the house of slaves. And it came about that Phar′aoh showed obstinacy toward sending us away, and God proceeded to kill every firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of man to the firstborn of beast. That is why I am sacrificing to God all the males that open the womb, and every firstborn of my sons I redeem.’ And it must serve as a sign upon your hand and as a frontlet band between your eyes, because by strength of hand God brought us out of Egypt.

The third compartment/column consisted of  Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Listen, O Israel: Jehovah our God is one Jehovah. And you must love Jehovah your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your vital force. And these words that I am commanding you today must prove to be on your heart; and you must inculcate them in your son and speak of them when you sit in your house and when you walk on the road and when you lie down and when you get up. And you must tie them as a sign upon your hand, and they must serve as a frontlet band between your eyes; and you must write them upon the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

The fourth and final compartment/column consisted of Deuteronomy 11:13-21

And it must occur that if you will without fail obey my commandments that I am commanding you today so as to love Jehovah your God and to serve him with all your heart and all your soul, I also shall certainly give rain for your land at its appointed time, autumn rain and spring rain, and you will indeed gather your grain and your sweet wine and your oil.  And I shall certainly give vegetation in your field for your domestic animals, and you will indeed eat and be satisfied. Watch out for yourselves for fear your heart may be enticed, and you do turn aside and worship other gods and bow down to them, and God’s anger does blaze against you, and he does shut up the heavens so that no rain will occur and the ground will not give its produce and you have to perish speedily from off the good land that God is giving you.

And you must apply these words of mine to your heart and your soul and bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they must serve as a frontlet band between your eyes.  You must also teach them to your sons, so as to speak of them when you sit in your house and when you walk on the road and when you lie down and when you get up. And you must write them upon the doorposts of your house and on your gates, in order that your days and the days of your sons may be many on the soil that God swore to your forefathers to give to them, as the days of the heavens over the earth.