Stewardship: Part 1 of 3

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

Part 1: Here on Planet Earth, Our Best Defense is Being Informed! 

At the time of this writing, many/most have come to realize that separation between Church and State is a one-sided farce.  It is one-sided because Churches are not permitted to engage in any political activity, yet the Government, via the IRS, sets the standards which dictate to churches what they can and can not do.  If the IRS does not think a church is a church, it is not.  

So, what actually constitutes a church?  It is not a building; it is not a Pastor, Minister, Rabbi, etc.  The answer to this question lies in the wording.  According to the IRS, a church is basically a congregation (group of people) who worship God together, possess a shared ideology, administer Sacraments, and share some type of Sacred Text.  Any group of people that does not meet the IRS standards may apply for an exception.  To ensure control the IRS periodically changes its requirements.

Having said that, our same government, under the guise of multiple agencies/departments, support the current exploitation, mismanagement, carelessness and greed perpetrated against us and our world.  The results have been and continue to be devastating.

The greedy overuse of our earth’s natural resources leaves little for future generations.  The list of endangered/extinct plants continues to grow; monoculture further puts our plants (and our food and medicine supply) at risk. 

 “As many as 100,000 of the estimated total 300,000 species may be gone or on the way to extinction by the middle of the [21st] century.”  Dr. Peter H. Raven, XVI International Botanical Congress.

Monoculture increases a crops susceptibility to a single disease or pest.  Currently more than half of the global energy intake comes from only three major crops: rice, wheat, and maize.  The loss of diversity in our food crops already

“… has been substantial.  The chief contemporary cause of the loss of genetic diversity has been the spread of modern, commercial agriculture. The largely unintended consequence of the introduction of new varieties of crops has been the replacement—and loss—of traditional, highly variable farmer varieties.”    Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

The most famous example of this is the 1840’s Great Potato Famine; the potato crops in Ireland were wiped out by potato blight (a fungus), which led to the death of 750,000 people.

 In 1949, there were almost 10,000 varieties of wheat, which were utilized on a regular basis, in China; today there are less than 1,000.  In the United States, in just 100 years, almost 6,000 varieties of apple trees, 95 percent of the varieties of cabbage, and 81 percent of the varieties of tomatoes seem to have up and disappeared.

Our present worldwide ecological crisis is the greatest man-made disaster this planet has ever faced.  Our drinking water is unsafe; our soils are barren; the food we eat and the air we breathe are slowly killing us.

To mention just a few of the problems:

• ·        Deforestation is affecting the absorption of carbon dioxide by the earth. 

• ·        Pollution of our Air, Land, and Water.  Pollution (along with overfishing) is greatly decreasing our fish populations.  Many textile manufacturers use dyes, softeners, and other chemicals which pose health consequences.

• ·        Toxic pesticides, herbicides, and growth regulators are not safe for humans; they can end up in the air, and in our food and water supply, and have been linked to asthma and cancer.   At the turn of the century, 7 of the top 15 pesticides sprayed on cotton were identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as "possible," "likely," "probable," or "known" human carcinogens.

• ·        Genetically Modified Food (GMO’s) has been linked to the development of cancerous tumors, infertility and birth defects.   GMO Seeds have been linked to the destruction of the world's bee population; bees not only pollinate crops, they perform other vital ecological roles, as well.

We, as a species are starting to “AWAKEN.”  Yesterday, May 25, activists around the world united to March Against Monsanto.  According to Tami Canal, protests were held in 436 cities in 52 countries ... "If I had gotten 3,000 people to join me, I would have considered that a success," she said Saturday. Instead, she said two million responded to her message ... She called the turnout "incredible," and credited social media for being a vehicle for furthering opportunities for activism. Despite the size of the gatherings, Canal said she was grateful that the marches were uniformly peaceful and no arrests have been reported.

Photo: Occupy Monsanto

www.facebook.com/OccupyMonsanto

Our global consciousness is rising.  More and more people are coming together peacefully, as One.  Here on Planet Earth, Our Best Defense is Being Informed.  So what does all of this have to do with churches?  To find out, please join us next week for Part 2: The Spiritual Aspects of Stewardship.

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

Please leave comments to this post on our Facebook Page.  Thank You!

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.

Please leave comments to this post on our Facebook Page.  Thank You!

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.

Please leave any comments to this Discourse on our Facebook Page.

The Tetragrammaton

The Creator’s/God’s name appears almost 7,000 times in the original Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament). It appears 8 times, just in the 10 Commandments.

One of the most fundamental and essential features of the biblical revelation is the fact that God is not without a name:  he has a personal name, by which he can, and is to be, invoked.”  (The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology.  Vol. 2. p. 649)

According to Biblical Scripture, the Creator’s/God’s name was used by Adam and Eve, and they knew how to pronounce it.



I have produced a man with the aid of 

 Genesis 4:1






By the time Moses was born, the scriptures imply that no one remembered the Creator’s/God’s Name.  In the original Hebrew Scriptures, the Creator’s/God’s name was given to Moses on Mount Sinai, as being  .   

 (Exodus 3:14).   These 4 letters make up what is called the Tetragrammaton. 

Christians later changed the Tetragrammaton to 

(YHWH) 

And God proceeded to speak all these words, saying:“I am 

 

your God, who have brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slaves. You must not have any other gods against my face.  Exodus 20:1-3

Then Moses said to God, "If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' what shall I say to them?" God said to Moses, "I AM that I AM".  And he said, "Say this to the people of Israel, YHWH has sent me to you.'" God also said to Moses, "Say this to the people of Israel, 'I Am, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you': this is my name for ever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations. When Moses first spoke with God, God said, 'I used to appear to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as El Shaddai  (El: One of God’s earliest names; Syrian tablets with this name have been traced back to 2300 BC; “I AM”), but I did not make myself known to them by My Name YHWH.  Exodus 3:13-15, 6:3.

The Torah conveyed the proper name of the Creator/God distinctly as YHWH to the Israelites; however, in ancient Judaism, the Tetragrammaton, was considered to be so sacred that it was not permitted to be pronounced aloud, even in prayer, without first receiving special permission. Whenever they saw YHWH in the Torah, they replaced it with the descriptive title:  "Sovereign Lord” or “The Lord" (Adonai or Adho-nai). In more recent history, this belief system has been challenged, and the prohibition of guarding the use of the Creator’s/God’s name has become much more relaxed.

Most modern day translations render the Tetragrammaton  as either YHWH or JHVH.   

The truth is, no one knows for sure how the Creator’s/God’s name is/was originally pronounced.  Although much confusion remains as to the correct English pronunciation, most modern day Bible translators render the pronunciation of  the Creator’s/God’s name as "Yahweh” or “Jehovah.” 

The Church of Yahweh renders the following paraphrased hypothesis:

Originally, Hebrew did not have vowels. Eventually the Hebrews felt it was wise to insert little dots (called vowel points) around the letters to remind the reader of the exact pronunciation. When they came to YHWH in the text, they added the vowel points for Adonai ("Lord") to remind the reader that the Divine Name was not to be pronounced. In the Middle Ages, around 1500, translators misunderstood that the vowel points were for "Adonai", not "Yahweh".  Thus, they combined the letters of YHWH with the vowels of Adonai. The result was "Jehovah" … the etymological fact is that "Jehovah" is a mistranslation based upon a historical misunderstanding.  In our modern Bibles, then, whenever YHWH is found, we usually "translate" it as LORD or Jehovah. Both are wrong, though Jehovah is certainly preferable to LORD.

Jehovah’s Witnesses support this hypothesis. 

When it came to God’s name, instead of putting the proper vowel signs around it, in most cases they put other vowel sounds to remind the reader that he should say ‘Adho-nai’.  From this came the spelling Iehouah, and, eventually, Jehovah became the accepted pronunciation of the divine name in English.  (The Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania.  The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever. 1984. p. 8)

Does it really matter whether we pronounce the Creator’s/God’s name as Yahweh or Jehovah?  Not at all; if it, the pronunciation, really mattered, the Creator/God certainly would have seen to it that it was preserved by at least one prophet!  The important thing is to know that the Bible does indeed, tell us that the Creator/God has a personal name and we should not only be aware of it, but also use it and share it with others.

Those knowing your name will trust in you … Psalm 9:10

Let your name be sanctified.  Matthew 6:9

I have made your name known to them and will make it known, in order that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in union with them.  John 17:26

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

Please leave any comments to this discourse on our Facebook Page.

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 2 of 2

The formatting is acting up again; this week we seem to have some color ... lol

In a nutshell, it could be said that discernment is the “mindful consideration” of a subject. It is the conscious act of going beyond our individual, pre-conceived views, judgements and perceptions. 

Discernment is cyclical and consists of an external and an internal component. 

The external component of discernment pertains to actively researching a topic, to gain understanding. It is the practice of comparing and analyzing what we already believe we know, with information we read, see or hear.  

The internal component deals with comprehension and personal integration of our research, via meditation and personal reflection.  It is an interior search, it is the process of determining the Creator’s/God's will for us, and the ability to carry it out. 

(Discernment is) “Knowing what to do, how to proceed, and how to respond when the issue is not visible to us.”   Peggy Moerbe

King Solomon emphasized the importance of practicing discernment.  

My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up my own commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment; if, moreover, you call out for understanding itself and you give forth your voice for discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of God, and you will find the very knowledge of God.  When wisdom enters into your heart and knowledge itself becomes pleasant to your very soul, thinking ability itself will keep guard over you, discernment itself will safeguard you, to deliver you from the bad way, from the man speaking perverse things, from those leaving the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness. Proverbs 2:1-5, 10-13

Discernment helps us:

·        determine the value and quality of our individual views, judgements and perceptions

·        perceive subtleties (grasp and comprehend that which is not obvious)

·        discard any old or new information that is misleading or irrelevant

·        recognize truths that resonate within our hearts

·        practice humility

·        self correct

·        set our priorities straight

·        exercise good judgement

·        gain wisdom by making wise decisions, especially during stressful/trying times

·        cultivate a close relationship with the Creator/God

Discernment requires time and personal effort. As mentioned earlier, discernment is cyclical; there are many steps to take to complete a discernment cycle.  The process is the same, regardless of how many times we have gone through the cycle.  

Here is the process:

·        Abandon the notion that we always know what is best.  

·        Pray to the Creator/God for an open, receptive mind and heart: Because truth is constantly changing, it is important to have an open mind so we can let go of old knowledge that is no longer valid.

·        Ask the Creator/God for the help of the Holy Spirit.

·        Actively dig for information, as if searching for a buried treasure. 

·        Isolate and focus on the main points presented in our research; this will help us understand the development of the subject at hand.

·        Ask the Creator/God to help us understand/comprehend information found in our research.

·       Analyze new information: Put information received to the test; see if it is truthful.  How does this new information apply to us, individually?  Do the results of our research resonate as truth within our hearts?  If  not, do not automatically assume that it is false; we may simply not be ready to receive it yet.  Instead, continue researching and meditating on the subject at hand; in time, the truth will be revealed. 

“Beloved ones, do not believe every inspired expression, but test the inspired expressions.”  1 John 4:1

·        Pay attention to intuition; it does not lie.  Intuition is the spark of light within each of  us that provides us with an innate knowing/sense of awareness that comes to us without explanation or proof.

·        While digging for answers, wait for the Creator/God to respond.   

·        Meditate upon how new found information relates to the Creator’s/God’s purpose.

One who is trying to make spiritual progress should attempt to … see things objectively … without being influenced by  emotions or passions. Discerning whether something is the Creator’s/God’s will, or the (D)evil’s will, requires calm, rational reflection.  The Creator’s/God’s will brings us to peaceful, joyful decisions. The (D)evil’s will leads us to make quick, emotional, conflicted decisions. Paraphrase, St. Ignatius of Loyola 

·        Meditate upon how to integrate and apply new ideas into our lives

·        Practice honest self-evaluation: Do we need to make personal adjustments in our thinking/beliefs? 

·        Abandon our personal views/judgements/perceptions when it becomes obvious that we are wrong.

·        Integrate our new found truth(s) into our hearts.   

When we consistently practice discernment, integrate our new found truths into our hearts, and apply new ideas into our lives, we grow spiritually. Over time, we take on a new personality, and the current cycle of discernment is complete. Each completed cycle brings us closer to the truth. 

If we make the conscious effort to fill our minds and hearts with the truth, we will gain wisdom, insight, and discernment.  A humble person who puts forth this kind of effort will indeed be able to get to know the Creator/God.
 
Let us gives serious attention to what is really deep inside of ourselves. Let us use our minds to acquire accurate knowledge of the Creator/God. Let us meditate on these things and seek to apply them. By doing so,

You will know the truth, and truth will set you free. John 8:32

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