Changes

WILL: Your friend Anne is a very [[spiritual]] [[person]]. I do not know though at this time whether she is ready to come into the [[group]]. The advances that she had made in her own [[spiritual growth]] have been many and she was most [[touched]] by the letter that she was given. As to whether she would be allowed into the [[group]] at the present time is really something that the group must [[decide]] upon. It should be taken to the group and let them decide whether a new member should be allowed into the group now. I really cannot give you a definite answer except to ask your fellows and let them decide. It should be made clear that she have a firm [[understanding]] of the [[Urantia Book]] and what it says, so that she not ask questions that would sidetrack the [[discussion]] or get bogged down in her questions. She must do her own searching and she must do her own catching up. She must be willing to do that. Is there someone else?

WILL: Your friend Anne is a very [[spiritual]] [[person]]. I do not know though at this time whether she is ready to come into the [[group]]. The advances that she had made in her own [[spiritual growth]] have been many and she was most [[touched]] by the letter that she was given. As to whether she would be allowed into the [[group]] at the present time is really something that the group must [[decide]] upon. It should be taken to the group and let them decide whether a new member should be allowed into the group now. I really cannot give you a definite answer except to ask your fellows and let them decide. It should be made clear that she have a firm [[understanding]] of the [[Urantia Book]] and what it says, so that she not ask questions that would sidetrack the [[discussion]] or get bogged down in her questions. She must do her own searching and she must do her own catching up. She must be willing to do that. Is there someone else?

VINCENT: Hello Will. My [[parents]] are living in Saudi Arabia and are [[Urantia Book]] [[readers]]. They have asked me to [[inquire]] about the [[Koran]], its source and any comment you might have on it and I am also interested in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Mormon Book of Mormon]. There are a lot of religious [[books]] out there that purport to be [[inspired]] and I would like to know if you can tell us a little bit about those two books.

VINCENT: Hello Will. My [[parents]] are living in Saudi Arabia and are [[Urantia Book]] [[readers]]. They have asked me to [[inquire]] about the [[Koran]], its source and any comment you might have on it and I am also interested in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Mormon Book of Mormon]. There are a lot of religious [[books]] out there that purport to be [[inspired]] and I would like to know if you can tell us a little bit about those two books.

WILL: The books that you speak of are [[inspired]], but they do not contain the [[truth]] about our spiritual world. There are many things in those books that come from [[spiritual]] [[sources]], but there is much that has been [[polluted]] by [[human]] [[thinking]] and, in [[reading]] them, it is best to remember that any time we get into a [[discussion]] of books that are of a [[religious]] source, it is best not to say anything that would be of a [[damaging]] nature to them because they are of great [[inspiration]] to the people who believe in them. So for those who have found inspiration by reading those [[books]], let it be and try not to dissuade them from their [[belief]]. For what they have found has given them substance. It has helped them in their daily lives. The books have helped them walk through their lives. You will get no [[argument]] from me and I would really rather not make any further comment on these [[books]]. As to your [[parents]], it is unfortunate that they are so far away for we know that you miss them. Perhaps there will come a time when you can [[share]] with them what is going on here. Until that day, they are [[surrounded]] by [[the Father]]'s [[love]] and have all the spiritual help that they could possibly need. Our Father loves them as well, just as He loves you. Is there someone else?

WILL: The books that you speak of are [[inspired]], but they do not contain the [[truth]] about our spiritual world. There are many things in those books that come from [[spiritual]] [[sources]], but there is much that has been [[polluted]] by [[human]] [[thinking]] and, in [[reading]] them, it is best to remember that any time we get into a [[discussion]] of books that are of a [[religious]] source, it is best not to say anything that would be of a [[damaging]] nature to them because they are of great [[inspiration]] to the people who believe in them. So for those who have found inspiration by reading those [[books]], let it be and try not to dissuade them from their [[belief]]. For what they have found has given them substance. It has helped them in their daily lives. The books have helped them walk through their lives. You will get no [[argument]] from me and I would really rather not make any further comment on these [[books]]. As to your [[parents]], it is unfortunate that they are so far away for we know that you miss them. Perhaps there will come a time when you can [[share]] with them what is going on here. Until that day, they are [[surrounded]] by [[the Father]]'s [[love]] and have all the spiritual help that they could possibly need. Our Father loves them as well, just as He loves you. Is there someone else?

[[The Father]] [[loves]] you all. His love is [[pure]], always true. It [[flows]] out from His [[home]] in [[paradise]]. It is the [[tide]] that never turns, the [[Wind|breeze]] that always blows strong, the [[sky]] that never changes. We invite you to join in [[the Father]]'s life and the growing [[love]] of this [[family]] gathered here tonight. It is the Father's will that it be so and He looks down from Heaven with love in His [[heart]]. I bid you good night. God [[bless]] you all. I am your teacher and I love you. [[Shalom]].

[[The Father]] [[loves]] you all. His love is [[pure]], always true. It [[flows]] out from His [[home]] in [[paradise]]. It is the [[tide]] that never turns, the [[Wind|breeze]] that always blows strong, the [[sky]] that never changes. We invite you to join in [[the Father]]'s life and the growing [[love]] of this [[family]] gathered here tonight. It is the Father's will that it be so and He looks down from Heaven with love in His [[heart]]. I bid you good night. God [[bless]] you all. I am your teacher and I love you. [[Shalom]].

==Session 3==

==Session 3==

*02/03/92 Monday p.m., message from Will, upon Soldette's request for a response to [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1992-02-01-Ham_To_General_Council the Brotherhood meeting in Los Angeles]:

*02/03/92 Monday p.m., message from Will, upon Soldette's request for a response to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1992-02-01-Ham_To_General_Council the Brotherhood meeting in Los Angeles]:

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

===='''''[[Teaching Mission]]'''''====

===='''''[[Teaching Mission]]'''''====

The type of [[communication]] which we now enjoy is [[adaptable]] to existing [[technologies]] which you daily employ in your [[work]] and [[play]]. There is no reason that the [[written]] [[word]] should be the only [[method]] of [[communication]]. At the moment, you and I are utilizing written communication because it gives us a [[degree]] of privacy that is otherwise virtually unattainable in a [[public]] setting. [[Respect]] for [[literacy]] and [[writing]] is so [[profound]] in your [[society]] that most people suffer severe [[hesitation]] before they would disturb you in this setting. [[Oral]] [[communication]], however, is quite flexible. Roland utilizes videotape to record [[transmissions]]. I recommend it to you as an application for questions such as Desmond's. Please obtain the [[necessary]] materials, and I will arrange a one-way [[communication]] from myself and his teacher Ramsey, to be recorded by you and delivered to Desmond. It is your first try at this novel approach, but I think you are up to it. Desmond will be grateful for anything you produce, and I know that you have legitimate concerns for the [[accuracy]] of the [[material]].

The type of [[communication]] which we now enjoy is [[adaptable]] to existing [[technologies]] which you daily employ in your [[work]] and [[play]]. There is no reason that the [[written]] [[word]] should be the only [[method]] of [[communication]]. At the moment, you and I are utilizing written communication because it gives us a [[degree]] of privacy that is otherwise virtually unattainable in a [[public]] setting. [[Respect]] for [[literacy]] and [[writing]] is so [[profound]] in your [[society]] that most people suffer severe [[hesitation]] before they would disturb you in this setting. [[Oral]] [[communication]], however, is quite flexible. Roland utilizes videotape to record [[transmissions]]. I recommend it to you as an application for questions such as Desmond's. Please obtain the [[necessary]] materials, and I will arrange a one-way [[communication]] from myself and his teacher Ramsey, to be recorded by you and delivered to Desmond. It is your first try at this novel approach, but I think you are up to it. Desmond will be grateful for anything you produce, and I know that you have legitimate concerns for the [[accuracy]] of the [[material]].

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications Telephone communication] is a snap, too. The only [[difficulty]] is in achieving the [[degree]] of [[privacy]] necessary for composure, and [[assurances]] should be provided that the [[integrity]] of the recorded material is not violated or [[exploited]]. In that case, communications with the transgressing party would be suspended. Not ended. Tell this to Desmond.

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications Telephone communication] is a snap, too. The only [[difficulty]] is in achieving the [[degree]] of [[privacy]] necessary for composure, and [[assurances]] should be provided that the [[integrity]] of the recorded material is not violated or [[exploited]]. In that case, communications with the transgressing party would be suspended. Not ended. Tell this to Desmond.

Desmond's [[group]] will come to fruit, in the area originally intended, with the people originally intended. We cannot force or maneuver people against their will. It is forbidden even to maneuver people who have [[expressed]] disinterest by their overt [[acts]], in the service of [[the Kingdom]]. Only those who have consciously [[embraced]] [[the Father]]'s will, and those whose [[acts]] have shown them to be amenable to [[alternative]] views of [[reality]], may be utilized overtly or [[covertly]] to facilitate [[developments]]. With the [[hostile]], and the dullards, we can do nothing, and these abound. For Desmond, however, since he so enjoys the fellowship of the Tallahassee group, we recommend frequent [[visits]] to the Sunday night meetings, as the time is available to him. He is already aware of the [[attractions]] of the Tallahassee family, and will benefit greatly from your [[welcome]], if so offered. You people are [[favored]] in Heaven, and you may show him a good [[service]], and thereby [[influence]] the development of another group with your excellent example of loving fraternity.

Desmond's [[group]] will come to fruit, in the area originally intended, with the people originally intended. We cannot force or maneuver people against their will. It is forbidden even to maneuver people who have [[expressed]] disinterest by their overt [[acts]], in the service of [[the Kingdom]]. Only those who have consciously [[embraced]] [[the Father]]'s will, and those whose [[acts]] have shown them to be amenable to [[alternative]] views of [[reality]], may be utilized overtly or [[covertly]] to facilitate [[developments]]. With the [[hostile]], and the dullards, we can do nothing, and these abound. For Desmond, however, since he so enjoys the fellowship of the Tallahassee group, we recommend frequent [[visits]] to the Sunday night meetings, as the time is available to him. He is already aware of the [[attractions]] of the Tallahassee family, and will benefit greatly from your [[welcome]], if so offered. You people are [[favored]] in Heaven, and you may show him a good [[service]], and thereby [[influence]] the development of another group with your excellent example of loving fraternity.

===='''''[[Teaching Mission]]'''''====

===='''''[[Teaching Mission]]'''''====

The events of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1991-02-01-Ham_To_General_Council the Brotherhood meeting] almost fell to the level of a [[waste]] of time. The [[minds]] of the [[participants]] barely rose above the level of [[material]] [[expectation]]. I see more [[reverence]] displayed at any deer hunter's tree stand than displayed in Los Angeles. You people feel and express [[disappointment]] because your [[expectations]] were not fulfilled, but I say to you that the failing is among your people. The least intimation that we offer causes the [[minds]] of the people to [[abandon]] all personal [[responsibility]] for their own [[values]]. They immediately demand bread; they demand works; they demand [[visions]]. It is as if I were back among the [[tribes]], who slaughtered and burnt in the name of the [[fear]] god, and called the smoke [[holy]].

The events of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1991-02-01-Ham_To_General_Council the Brotherhood meeting] almost fell to the level of a [[waste]] of time. The [[minds]] of the [[participants]] barely rose above the level of [[material]] [[expectation]]. I see more [[reverence]] displayed at any deer hunter's tree stand than displayed in Los Angeles. You people feel and express [[disappointment]] because your [[expectations]] were not fulfilled, but I say to you that the failing is among your people. The least intimation that we offer causes the [[minds]] of the people to [[abandon]] all personal [[responsibility]] for their own [[values]]. They immediately demand bread; they demand works; they demand [[visions]]. It is as if I were back among the [[tribes]], who slaughtered and burnt in the name of the [[fear]] god, and called the smoke [[holy]].

Little do you [[realize]] how tenuous these [[connections]] are. Our commitment is strong, powerful, true, and unfailing. But we will not play the [[music]] that the people [[desire]] to hear. They will turn aside from [[the Kingdom]], as they have before. From within and without, whether the camps of [[Israel]] or the camp of [[Urantia Book]] [[readers]], many are present only for meat and fire and companionship. And when the word of [[the Father]] rings out, they will disappear by ones and twos, back to the night sands. It is [[difficult]] even for the [[steadfast]] to stand firm. You, Ron and Cathy, and the Utah visitors, know now how [[the Father]] felt, watching the people melt away from the least flicker of His flame. It is discouraging. We, above, have [[difficulty]] even maintaining [[communication]] with our devoted [[human]] [[partners]] under these circumstances.

Little do you [[realize]] how tenuous these [[connections]] are. Our commitment is strong, powerful, true, and unfailing. But we will not play the [[music]] that the people [[desire]] to hear. They will turn aside from [[the Kingdom]], as they have before. From within and without, whether the camps of [[Israel]] or the camp of [[Urantia Book]] [[readers]], many are present only for meat and fire and companionship. And when the word of [[the Father]] rings out, they will disappear by ones and twos, back to the night sands. It is [[difficult]] even for the [[steadfast]] to stand firm. You, Ron and Cathy, and the Utah visitors, know now how [[the Father]] felt, watching the people melt away from the least flicker of His flame. It is discouraging. We, above, have [[difficulty]] even maintaining [[communication]] with our devoted [[human]] [[partners]] under these circumstances.

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

===='''''[[Persecution]]'''''====

===='''''[[Persecution]]'''''====

MACHIVENTA MELCHIZEDEK: Well it is that you have all gathered [[together]] tonight to [[discuss]] [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1992-02-01-Ham_To_General_Council these events], although for myself and many other [[entities]], we have heard enough of the events and [[personalities]] involved in [[the Brotherhood]]. You do not [[realize]] how little they add to your [[experience]].

MACHIVENTA MELCHIZEDEK: Well it is that you have all gathered [[together]] tonight to [[discuss]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1992-02-01-Ham_To_General_Council these events], although for myself and many other [[entities]], we have heard enough of the events and [[personalities]] involved in [[the Brotherhood]]. You do not [[realize]] how little they add to your [[experience]].

I am the [[Melchizedek]]. My name is [[Machiventa]] and I serve [[Michael]], creator of this [[universe]] and all that is within it.

I am the [[Melchizedek]]. My name is [[Machiventa]] and I serve [[Michael]], creator of this [[universe]] and all that is within it.

You will show more love for your [[brothers and sisters]] by dealing with them [[honestly]] than you will show by [[demonstrating]] insincere [[compassion]] or unjustifiable concern or an unnatural [[degree]] of personal interest in their lives. Those things are unnecessary and will arouse the [[suspicion]] of those who you wish to ultimately [[embrace]]. Just be [[honest]] and forthright with the people. They are certainly that [[intelligent]]. You do not need to couch your [[ideas]] in [[cliched]] phrases. You do not need to sugarcoat [[the Father]]'s message. To some it shall [[taste]] bitter, to others sweet and light. The [[message]] is the same. It matters more the [[posture]] of the person who is receiving it. The Father's [[medicine]] is good for all. Therefore we lay this charge upon you. In order to love your [[brother]], speak [[honestly]]. Portray your highest [[understanding]], even better, exhibit through your [[actions]] your understanding of [[the Father]]'s love and His daily concern for your brothers and sisters who are your [[companions]] in this life.

You will show more love for your [[brothers and sisters]] by dealing with them [[honestly]] than you will show by [[demonstrating]] insincere [[compassion]] or unjustifiable concern or an unnatural [[degree]] of personal interest in their lives. Those things are unnecessary and will arouse the [[suspicion]] of those who you wish to ultimately [[embrace]]. Just be [[honest]] and forthright with the people. They are certainly that [[intelligent]]. You do not need to couch your [[ideas]] in [[cliched]] phrases. You do not need to sugarcoat [[the Father]]'s message. To some it shall [[taste]] bitter, to others sweet and light. The [[message]] is the same. It matters more the [[posture]] of the person who is receiving it. The Father's [[medicine]] is good for all. Therefore we lay this charge upon you. In order to love your [[brother]], speak [[honestly]]. Portray your highest [[understanding]], even better, exhibit through your [[actions]] your understanding of [[the Father]]'s love and His daily concern for your brothers and sisters who are your [[companions]] in this life.

I commend you all for your [[progress]] in the 1,2,3 exercise. This very progress has allowed a further development of our charge to you. We would like you to speak more boldly. We would like you to speak more candidly. We would like you to take more chances. You all know by now that there is little or nothing to fear. Who among the people can deny the truth? Still, it is of concern in untested relationships and in long-standing relationships that new and profound developments such as those we have incorporated might be threatening to one or more of the parties involved. Yet all who know you, each of you, are capable of absorbing increasing steps towards perfection. Every day is an occasion to be about the Father's business and His main business is perfection. There is always a better way-that is the salesmen's rhetoric of your society. Your job is to demonstrate that better way. Your job is to challenge the people, show them, lead them. They will follow along after you shortly. You need not be overly concerned for the immediate product of your example and teaching; the people will follow along. They are afraid to walk out upon the untracked grass. Your footsteps will be the footsteps that will bend over the blades of that grass, and others will follow until it becomes a trail and then a rut of another kind. The Father will then blaze a new trail through you or such as you. But the people will follow along. You will see. So I encourage you to challenge them. Challenge them to move towards perfection. Challenge them to embrace the better life. There is no occasion from turning aside from the better way. Hardly an argument can be raised against it.

I commend you all for your [[progress]] in the [[1,2,3 exercise]]. This very [[progress]] has allowed a further [[development]] of our charge to you. We would like you to speak more [[boldly]]. We would like you to speak more [[candidly]]. We would like you to take more [[chances]]. You all know by now that there is little or nothing to [[fear]]. Who among the people can deny the [[truth]]? Still, it is of concern in untested [[relationships]] and in long-standing relationships that new and [[profound]] [[developments]] such as those we have incorporated might be threatening to one or more of the parties involved. Yet all who know you, each of you, are capable of [[absorbing]] increasing steps towards [[perfection]]. Every day is an occasion to be about [[the Father]]'s business and His main business is [[perfection]]. There is always a better way-that is the salesmen's [[rhetoric]] of your [[society]]. Your job is to [[demonstrate]] that better way. Your job is to challenge the people, show them, lead them. They will follow along after you shortly. You need not be overly concerned for the [[immediate]] product of your example and teaching; the people will follow along. They are [[afraid]] to walk out upon the untracked grass. Your footsteps will be the footsteps that will bend over the blades of that grass, and others will follow until it becomes a trail and then a rut of another kind. [[The Father]] will then [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trailblazing blaze] a new trail through you or such as you. But the people will follow along. You will see. So I [[encourage]] you to [[challenge]] them. Challenge them to move towards [[perfection]]. Challenge them to [[embrace]] the better life. There is no occasion from turning aside from the better way. Hardly an [[argument]] can be raised against it.

There has been much discussion and much thought tonight on the topic of how the Father proposes to accomplish all of this. You people are coming close.

There has been much [[discussion]] and much thought tonight on the [[topic]] of how [[the Father]] proposes to accomplish all of this. You people are coming close.

I will reveal something to you. You will use the tools that you already have. You will sharpen and polish them until they are more effective than they were ever intended to be. For the Father's hand will be along side yours on the handle. When you set your hand to the Father's work, you are never alone. He works within you. He works without you; the Father's grasp is firm. We believe that He can make no mistake. Certainly we have never seen evidence of one. The Father sees, He knows the necessities that are required for each of you to do His work. You have but to embrace that work. The Father will see that you have the tools.

I will [[reveal]] something to you. You will use the [[tools]] that you already have. You will sharpen and polish them until they are more [[effective]] than they were ever intended to be. For [[the Father]]'s hand will be along side yours on the handle. When you set your hand to the Father's [[work]], you are never [[alone]]. He works within you. He works without you; the Father's grasp is firm. We [[believe]] that He can make no mistake. Certainly we have never seen [[evidence]] of one. [[The Father]] sees, He knows the [[necessities]] that are required for each of you to do His work. You have but to [[embrace]] that work. [[The Father]] will see that you have the [[tools]].

Each of you right now is developing the abilities, and when you lay down your hand, you will find the necessities within your grasp. Do not trouble yourselves overly over how things will be accomplished. The Father's plan is unstoppable. Certain people may turn aside from the path, but the Father's plan will never end. He has work for you all, beyond paradise. You will not be spending eternity eating grapes. He has the most difficult tasks imaginable waiting for you. He keeps a large book and for each of you there will be a task, waiting for just the right person.

Each of you right now is developing the [[abilities]], and when you lay down your hand, you will find the [[necessities]] within your grasp. Do not trouble yourselves overly over how things will be accomplished. [[The Father]]'s plan is unstoppable. Certain people may turn aside from the [[path]], but the Father's plan will never end. He has work for you all, beyond [[paradise]]. You will not be spending [[eternity]] eating grapes. He has the most [[difficult]] tasks imaginable waiting for you. He keeps a large [[book]] and for each of you there will be a task, waiting for just the right [[person]].

If you [[think]] you have a [[difficult]] life on this planet then I say to you that you are [[blessed]]. We have discussed tonight many features of the worlds of [[Light and Life]]; the type of world from which I came. The people on the worlds of [[Light and Life]] make rapid [[progress]]. They know [[the Father]]. They do His work. Many [[embrace]] Him while they are yet alive in the [[material]] life. Yet those people lack an important [[quality]]. They are not [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toughness toughened]. They are not tested. They have not [[suffered]]--oh, they have their [[difficulties]] and they have their [[choices]] to make, but I [[assure]] you that their choices are much more palatable than the choices which you are offered. When [[the Father]] has a [[difficult]] task-one that requires someone who is true and capable of working [[alone]] amid [[doubts]] and [[negative]] [[influences]] and [[isolation]]-He picks people like you because you know. You know what [[faith]] is. Before any of this, there was the faith in [[the Father]]. That faith cannot be [[trained]] into a person. It must be [[earned]]. Therefore we have said many times, you people are favored in heaven, that the people of your planet and planets similar to yours, have earned a rugged [[constitution]] that cannot be [[achieved]] any other way than through a [[difficult]] contrary [[material]] life [[experience]]. Certainly none fall through cracks in [[the Father]]'s [[plan]].

If you think you have a difficult life on this planet then I say to you that you are blessed. We have discussed tonight many features of the worlds of Light and Life; the type of world from which I came. The people on the worlds of Light and Life make rapid progress. They know the Father. They do His work. Many embrace Him while they are yet alive in the material life. Yet those people lack an important quality. They are not toughened. They are not tested. They have not suffered--oh, they have their difficulties and they have their choices to make, but I assure you that their choices are much more palatable than the choices which you are offered. When the Father has a difficult task-one that requires someone who is true and capable of working alone amid doubts and negative influences and isolation-He picks people like you because you know. You know what faith is. Before any of this, there was the faith in the Father. That faith cannot be trained into a person. It must be earned. Therefore we have said many times, you people are favored in heaven, that the people of your planet and planets similar to yours, have earned a rugged constitution that cannot be achieved any other way than through a difficult contrary material life experience. Certainly none fall through cracks in the Father's plan.

[[The Father]]'s [[defenses]] are deep. All [[potential]] events are [[compensated]] for. The Father will ask that each of you live long and productive and occasionally [[difficult]] lives. One day you will see the benefit of this [[experience]]. For myself, I envy you. You have [[opportunities]] to display your [[understanding]] that never existed on my [[planet]] in my lifetime. We [[read]] about the challenges that you face daily as if it were a long-lost [[history]], much the same way as you look back upon the [[mythological]] times, the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_history ancient eastern societies], or the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_greece ancient Greeks], the times of [[heroes]]. Those are the days in which you live today. Notwithstanding your extravagant [[material]] [[progress]], you are still living in the time of [[heroes]]. So when I hear you say, "Ah, this is getting too [[difficult]]," I say to myself, "What an [[opportunity]]."

The Father's defenses are deep. All potential events are compensated for. The Father will ask that each of you live long and productive and occasionally difficult lives. One day you will see the benefit of this experience. For myself, I envy you. You have opportunities to display your understanding that never existed on my planet in my lifetime. We read about the challenges that you face daily as if it were a long-lost history, much the same way as you look back upon the mythological times, the ancient eastern societies, or the ancient Greeks, the times of heroes. Those are the days in which you live today. Notwithstanding your extravagant material progress, you are still living in the time of heroes. So when I hear you say, "Ah, this is getting too difficult," I say to myself, "What an opportunity."

There is no other place to gain such [[experience]] as the experience gained on your [[planet]], or those like it. So I may with [[confidence]] say that you are [[blessed]], to have [[trained]] in a difficult [[school]]. I assure you, you are [[prepared]] for anything after this experience. When people such as you walk by, we take off our hats. We [[respect]] you. We [[envy]] you. The [[spiritual]] [[beings]] assigned to ministry on your planet are frequently confounded by your [[activities]], your [[perceptions]]. They do not [[understand]] how it is you do some of the things that you do. They set a high goal and you fall well short. Next they set an easy mark and you so exceed it as if to catch them [[asleep]]. They never get the hang of your [[capabilities]]. People from a [[planet]] like mine are much easier to estimate. We provide few [[surprises]] for them. Those surprises which we have sprung on them were more in the [[nature]] of [[timing]] surprises. But you people astound them. It is why it is a [[difficult]] assignment for the [[celestials]] and why they compete for a posting in an assignment such as this. It requires all the [[skill]] available to them. Only experienced ministers are considered and, even then, many must request [[guidance]]. They fail to estimate the difficult conditions under which you labor, and none of them have lived [[animal]] lives. Few of them have ever lived material lives. When they have a question, they go and ask someone. When you have a question, who should you ask? Your [[Adjuster]], yet you typically cannot [[communicate]] with the Adjuster, so you must tough it out. They do not [[understand]] that. They don't understand how you can have such a [[resource]] available to you and not purposely [[access]] that source. So even those things which you accomplish in furtherance of the [[Adjuster]]'s leading are basically of your own [[volition]] and [[understanding]], and that is when you catch the ministers unaware. They do not understand you. They can never understand you, and in the [[moment]] you understand them, you will be ready for the next, and that is the day upon which you pass them by on the [[journey]] to [[Paradise]] itself. Therefore they remove their hats when you pass by.

There is no other place to gain such experience as the experience gained on your planet, or those like it. So I may with confidence say that you are blessed, to have trained in a difficult school. I assure you, you are prepared for anything after this experience. When people such as you walk by, we take off our hats. We respect you. We envy you. The spiritual beings assigned to ministry on your planet are frequently confounded by your activities, your perceptions. They do not understand how it is you do some of the things that you do. They set a high goal and you fall well short. Next they set an easy mark and you so exceed it as if to catch them asleep. They never get the hang of your capabilities. People from a planet like mine are much easier to estimate. We provide few surprises for them. Those surprises which we have sprung on them were more in the nature of timing surprises. But you people astound them. It is why it is a difficult assignment for the celestials and why they compete for a posting in an assignment such as this. It requires all the skill available to them. Only experienced ministers are considered and, even then, many must request guidance. They fail to estimate the difficult conditions under which you labor, and none of them have lived animal lives. Few of them have ever lived material lives. When they have a question, they go and ask someone. When you have a question, who should you ask? Your Adjuster, yet you typically cannot communicate with the Adjuster, so you must tough it out. They do not understand that. They don't understand how you can have such a resource available to you and not purposely access that source. So even those things which you accomplish in furtherance of the Adjuster's leading are basically of your own volition and understanding, and that is when you catch the ministers unaware. They do not understand you. They can never understand you, and in the moment you understand them, you will be ready for the next, and that is the day upon which you pass them by on the journey to Paradise itself. Therefore they remove their hats when you pass by.

Pretty good pep talk, eh? I don't want to hear any [[complaining]] about how [[difficult]] things are. I should be safe for a few days. I [[understand]] just enough of your situation to [[empathize]] with it. Even I understand the trials and excruciations of your daily lives, particularly when so much of your time is taken up in non-spiritual concerns. My job, of course, is not to sympathize with your situation, but to [[inspire]] you, to provoke you, to challenge you. Spend less time grappling with the challenges of the [[material]] life and more time grappling with the challenges of your [[spiritual development]]. You will be [[happier]] for it. Try to set aside the [[negative]] [[experiences]] of your [[past]] life. Roll them up in a ball and spit them into the [[dirt]]. Whenever you have a negative thought; dig a hole in the dirt; spit in the hole, cover it over. One by one, you will begin removing the negative and [[painful]] [[thoughts]] from your [[memory]].

Pretty good pep talk, eh? I don't want to hear any complaining about how difficult things are. I should be safe for a few days. I understand just enough of your situation to empathize with it. Even I understand the trials and excruciations of your daily lives, particularly when so much of your time is taken up in non-spiritual concerns. My job, of course, is not to sympathize with your situation, but to inspire you, to provoke you, to challenge you. Spend less time grappling with the challenges of the material life and more time grappling with the challenges of your spiritual development. You will be happier for it. Try to set aside the negative experiences of your past life. Roll them up in a ball and spit them into the dirt. Whenever you have a negative thought; dig a hole in the dirt; spit in the hole, cover it over. One by one, you will begin removing the negative and painful thoughts from your memory.

I do not have much else to say tonight. I just enjoyed sitting among the [[group]]. I [[love]] you all. I am proud of you. Each person is valuable to me-more so to [[the Father]] in heaven. The [[Melchizedek]] will be back soon. His [[message]] is [[secret]].

At a moment like this, I can look into your [[hearts]] and see what was not long ago only a [[spark]], is now an ember. One day a torch and a beacon. I am [[proud]] of you. I [[love]] each of you. I am [[happy]] for your [[companionship]]. I spend time each day with each of you. From time to time, you will hear my [[word]]. I envy you. You are [[lucky]].

 

At a moment like this, I can look into your hearts and see what was not long ago only a spark, is now an ember. One day a torch and a beacon. I am proud of you. I love each of you. I am happy for your companionship. I spend time each day with each of you. From time to time, you will hear my word. I envy you. You are lucky.

 

Shalom.

TOM: I would like to ask a question.

TOM: I would like to ask a question.

WILL: You may. State your question.

WILL: You may. State your question.

TOM: Since we are transcribing these meetings, wouldn't it be a good idea to advise us of Eric's spiritual name to protect his identity? [Editor's note: We have used "Eric" throughout these transcripts even though it wasn't until this meeting that his spiritual name was divulged to the group.]

TOM: Since we are [[transcribing]] these meetings, wouldn't it be a [[good]] [[idea]] to advise us of Eric's [[spiritual]] [[name]] to protect his [[identity]]? [Editor's note: We have used "Eric" throughout these transcripts even though it wasn't until this meeting that his spiritual name was divulged to the [[group]].]

 

MACHIVENTA MELCHIZEDEK: I wish to congratulate each of you in the progress that you have made in advancing the work of the kingdom on earth. I am Machiventa Melchizedek, servant of Michael of Nebadon, and I greet you in the Father's name. His name is Eric and he should be known henceforth as such. I say so.

MACHIVENTA MELCHIZEDEK: I wish to congratulate each of you in the [[progress]] that you have made in advancing the work of [[the kingdom]] on [[earth]]. I am [[Machiventa]] [[Melchizedek]], servant of [[Michael]] of [[Nebadon]], and I greet you in [[the Father]]'s name. His name is Eric and he should be known henceforth as such. I say so.

Each of you has your feet set upon the Father's path. You will not be dislodged. The Father sees the direction each of you travels. He welcomes you. He wishes you godspeed. He beckons you. The Father waits for you to join Him. He desires your company and wishes to hear of your experiences-those very experiences which have allowed Him to increase His power and understanding of His own personality, His power and beneficence. You may not be dislodged from the path. I say so. Your date with destiny is secure. Therefore I will greet you now and again. I welcome your companionship and the service which you provide to us all, and your concern and cooperation for each other and those yet unmet. The peace of the Universal Father I leave upon you. Amen.

Each of you has your feet set upon the Father's [[path]]. You will not be dislodged. [[The Father]] sees the direction each of you travels. He [[welcomes]] you. He wishes you godspeed. He beckons you. The Father waits for you to join Him. He [[desires]] your company and wishes to hear of your [[experiences]]-those very experiences which have allowed Him to increase His [[power]] and understanding of His own [[personality]], His power and [[beneficence]]. You may not be dislodged from the path. I say so. Your date with [[destiny]] is secure. Therefore I will greet you now and again. I welcome your [[companionship]] and the [[service]] which you provide to us all, and your concern and [[cooperation]] for each other and those yet unmet. The peace of the [[Universal Father]] I leave upon you. [[Amen]].

==Session 9==

==Session 9==

*02/19/92 Wednesday a.m., message from Melchizedek in response to Hal's question on Mason offenses:

*02/19/92 Wednesday a.m., message from Melchizedek in response to Hal's question on Mason offenses:

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

Good morning, my friend. I have a comment on the request posed by your colleague, Hal.

Good morning, my friend. I have a comment on the request posed by your colleague, Hal.

I am the Melchizedek, vicegerent Planetary Prince, serving in this post in the place of Michael of Nebadon, the perfect one. These are my words:

I am the [[Melchizedek]], vicegerent [[Planetary Prince]], serving in this post in the place of [[Michael]] of [[Nebadon]], the perfect one. These are my [[words]]:

The allegations against the Masonic Lodge administrative management are true, although the offensive activities in which they are engaged are not the goals or expressed purpose of their organization. So long as children are limited to the legal rights of chattels, they will continue to be exploited by the predatory elements of your society. The children are not subject to you in value. They deserve all the rights and liberties granted to adults, except for access to intoxicants and drugs; in fact they deserve additional protection. The failure of your society to properly value the future generations ensures that this despicable experience will be repeated.

The allegations against the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masonic_Lodge Masonic Lodge] administrative [[management]] are true, although the [[offensive]] [[activities]] in which they are engaged are not the goals or expressed [[purpose]] of their [[organization]]. So long as children are limited to the legal rights of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chattel chattels], they will continue to be [[exploited]] by the predatory elements of your [[society]]. The children are not subject to you in [[value]]. They deserve all the rights and [[liberties]] granted to adults, except for access to intoxicants and [[drugs]]; in fact they deserve additional [[protection]]. The failure of your [[society]] to properly value the [[future]] [[generations]] ensures that this despicable [[experience]] will be repeated.

The perversion of power is widespread through your culture, with most people assuming that power grants a license to harm. This is an evolution of the olden concept of divine right. Such an assumption has no basis in celestial approval. If anything, the reverse is true. The depredations of the rich and politically influential upon the disarmed and defenseless of society is a stink in the nostrils of the Father. No penalty that incorporates the element of rehabilitation is too severe. Wealth and power bring not license but additional responsibilities upon the holder. Any societal sanction which advances this change in attitude is acceptable. Remember that the proper societal goal is not retribution, or even conformity of behavior, but is the pursuit of ever-higher expressions of service to the fellow material creatures who share the life experience. For this reason, it is better to treat the exposure of these heinous activities as a statement of present history, than to propose a course of punitive response. The response is a justice-based determination, and is in the realm of society.

The [[perversion]] of [[power]] is widespread through your [[culture]], with most people assuming that power grants a [[license]] to harm. This is an [[evolution]] of the olden concept of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divine_right_of_kings divine right]. Such an [[assumption]] has no basis in [[celestial]] approval. If anything, the reverse is true. The depredations of the [[rich]] and politically [[influential]] upon the disarmed and defenseless of [[society]] is a stink in the nostrils of [[the Father]]. No penalty that incorporates the element of [[rehabilitation]] is too severe. [[Wealth]] and [[power]] bring not license but additional [[responsibilities]] upon the holder. Any societal sanction which advances this [[change]] in [[attitude]] is acceptable. Remember that the proper societal goal is not [[retribution]], or even [[conformity]] of [[behavior]], but is the pursuit of ever-higher [[expressions]] of [[service]] to the fellow material [[creatures]] who [[share]] the life experience. For this reason, it is better to treat the exposure of these heinous [[activities]] as a statement of present history, than to propose a course of punitive response. The response is a [[justice]]-based determination, and is in the realm of [[society]].

Advocacy of the higher ideal of service should be expressed as a personal sentiment, and is more effective as a conclusory observation, to be presented in person as circumstances allow. The evocative challenge to service is the teaching; the exposure of the offense is the palette for the lesson. The student mind must be prepared to accept the lesson, else the teaching is lost, therefore the application of the conclusion must be reserved to the personal discretion of the teacher, to be applied when the mind is open. All proper instruction is conducted on this model. Even the most reprehensible sin can be turned to the Father's work. Do not forget this. That is the true duty of the God-knowing mortal.

Advocacy of the higher [[ideal]] of [[service]] should be expressed as a personal sentiment, and is more effective as a conclusory observation, to be presented in [[person]] as circumstances allow. The evocative [[challenge]] to [[service]] is the [[teaching]]; the exposure of the [[offense]] is the palette for the lesson. The student [[mind]] must be prepared to [[accept]] the lesson, else the teaching is lost, therefore the application of the conclusion must be reserved to the [[personal]] [[discretion]] of the [[teacher]], to be applied when the [[mind]] is open. All proper instruction is conducted on this model. Even the most reprehensible [[sin]] can be turned to [[the Father]]'s work. Do not forget this. That is the true [[duty]] of the God-knowing [[mortal]].

-- Machiventa Melchizedek I have additional words for you today, Eric. I approve of your concern for your group's sensitivities, not wanting to cause discord through the revelation of your cosmic name. Yet you do not see the entire picture. As Soledet pointed out, the concern for privacy is genuine, and this step contributes to the preservation of that privacy, which is dear to many involved. I also wished to affirm that we recognize your transit to the Third Circle. You exhibit balance - - not complete, for there is progress yet to be made, and you know this well -- and a modest acknowledgment is appropriate. -- Excuse me, I was called away for a moment. --

We are pleased with your [[adoption]] of [[progressively]] higher instruction, and I thank you for facilitating my remarks, both in and out of the meeting setting. Your [[communication]], limited lately, is in accord with our instruction to devote yourself to [[work]] and [[school]]. We are pleased to see your productivity. Your work contacts are the arena in which our [[influence]] over material life changes will be brought about. Therefore, [[persist]].

We are pleased with your adoption of progressively higher instruction, and I thank you for facilitating my remarks, both in and out of the meeting setting. Your communication, limited lately, is in accord with our instruction to devote yourself to work and school. We are pleased to see your productivity. Your work contacts are the arena in which our influence over material life changes will be brought about. Therefore, persist.

I commend you, and send my greetings to Soledet and Jade, the flawless [[jewel]] -- now that is a name. Press on, all of you. I am watching from above and will always [[love]] and protect you, for you are dear to me. -- Machiventa Melchizedek Will-149

==Session 10==

==Session 10==

*FEBRUARY 23, 1992

*FEBRUARY 23, 1992

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

WILL: The love of God surrounds us. The love of God enfolds us. The majesty of God upholds us all. There is no God like our God. He has given us life. He has given us love and shown us the path to His side, from which position we shall set forth unto new worlds not yet known to any person. Good evening my friends, I am your teacher. I am Will.

I have enjoyed your [[conversation]] this evening and good [[questions]] have been raised. I will attempt to deal with those which I [[believe]] I [[understand]]. If there are any questions discussed earlier tonight which I overlook, please call them to my [[attention]]. First, on the [[topic]] of whether or not I was rebuked by the [[Melchizedek]] on the [[method]] of Eric's [[spiritual]] [[name]]: It is not for me to [[reveal]] such a personal thing as another's [[cosmic]] [[name]]. If Eric chooses not to release or not to publish his name, from my view, it is his [[private]] business. I am quite fond and proud of my [[name]] as I am sure you will all be proud and fond of your names when you ultimately know them, but I will say in his stead that it is something that sometimes takes a little getting used to and since we now have-those of us who are survivors-a luxury of time as you [[understand]] it, the passage of a little time makes little [[difference]]. It is something that will [[work]] itself out, by and by. However, as to the question of rebuke, I eagerly await the next occasion upon which the [[Melchizedek]] shall correct my [[actions]] or my [[opinions]] or my [[point of view]]. I have never found him to be wrong nor any other [[Melchizedek]] reviewing my work closely. Actually that sounds like a qualification. I have never [[perceived]] [[error]] in any of the spiritual ministers. I know that historically some have gone astray and I [[understand]] generally that on [[other planets]], in other [[the System|systems]] and by logical extension in the other [[Local Universe|universes]], some have gone astray. I have never [[witnessed]] it myself. So in my view, the margin for [[error]] is small and, if the [[Melchizedek]] wishes to step in and override my [[exercise]] of restraint, I have nothing to say about that. He is always up to things that I do not completely [[understand]] anyway and this is largely his project. Besides, he has personal [[experience]] in dealing with [[humans]] under instruction from this very planet. It is one of the reasons he was chosen to represent [[Michael]] as [[Planetary Prince]]. He has a way of [[speaking]] that is very forceful and, upon review, I can see that you might feel that his [[words]] were strong enough to imply that I had erred in some way. I do not think that that is true, myself.

I think we recently said that there are [[differences]] of [[opinion]] even among the instruction team. If we were all alike, there would be no point in assembling a team. We each bring different [[perspectives]], different degrees of restraint, different degrees of [[advocacy]] and [[activity]]. Eric would say, "That is what makes horse races." I rather like his name, though. He was reluctant to [[reveal]] his name because there is a [[historical]] [[connection]]. He considers it a suspect connection that goes back fifteen years or so to time when he and Soledet and another used a board called the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouija Ouija board] and his name was clearly spelled out, repeatedly. Soledet's cosmic name also was spelled out clearly, but the record of that [[event]] has been misplaced. It will not hurt to wait awhile for the next step, and he was somewhat unnerved by the [[personal]] [[message]] that was delivered by the Melchizedek along with the revelation of his cosmic name-actually the confirmation of his cosmic name-and not knowing how to extricate the pieces of [[factual]] [[information]], he just refrained from raising the entire topic. Still, the [[Melchizedek]] came through loud and clear. I certainly [[understood]] his remarks.

 

I think we recently said that there are differences of opinion even among the instruction team. If we were all alike, there would be no point in assembling a team. We each bring different perspectives, different degrees of restraint, different degrees of advocacy and activity. Eric would say, "That is what makes horse races." I rather like his name, though. He was reluctant to reveal his name because there is a historical connection. He considers it a suspect connection that goes back fifteen years or so to time when he and Soledet and another used a board called the Ouija board and his name was clearly spelled out, repeatedly. Soledet's cosmic name also was spelled out clearly, but the record of that event has been misplaced. It will not hurt to wait awhile for the next step, and he was somewhat unnerved by the personal message that was delivered by the Melchizedek along with the revelation of his cosmic name-actually the confirmation of his cosmic name-and not knowing how to extricate the pieces of factual information, he just refrained from raising the entire topic. Still, the Melchizedek came through loud and clear. I certainly understood his remarks.

On the [[topic]] of [[hierarchy]]: hierarchies exist throughout the [[celestial]] [[administration]] of creature [[progress]]. Hierarchies are [[natural]] among your people no matter the [[culture]]. The question seems to be whether [[hierarchies]] exist in the [[interface]] between the [[morontia]] and the [[material]]. I perceive that hierarchies are inescapable, for there is no such thing as total [[equality]] between people. It is not for us to question the [[skills]] and [[talents]] which are bestowed by [[the Father]] upon the [[individual]] will creatures. Great differences in abilities exist between people closely related-from the same [[genetic]] lines. It is somehow a part of [[the Father]]'s [[plan]]. With such variation among the participants, it is inescapable that [[hierarchy]] shall [[develop]]. The question is, shall we make the [[transition]] from the [[material]] life to the [[morontia life]] with or without the utilization of [[hierarchies]]. [[The Father]] in heaven knows all. We believe this. I have never seen any indication to the contrary. While we ourselves do not ascribe to the [[theory]] of [[providence]] and are instructed not to teach the theory of providence, [[the Father]] knows what [[tools]] are required. He will provide the [[necessaries]]. It is for us on this side and for you on that side to put them into [[action]]. Whatever is needed to effect [[the Father]]'s plan will be provided, and freely. It is true that there was a disparity between the [[necessities]] provided to the [[disciples]] of [[Jesus]] and the sworn [[apostles]] of Jesus. Yet there is no way for me to distinguish for you the [[transit]] between those two points except as the [[embrace]] of [[faith]]. No answer which I provide to you will be [[intellectually]] or [[emotionally]] satisfying. Only the [[embrace]] of [[faith]] in the Father will be [[satisfactory]]. When you embrace the Father's [[love]] and [[the Father]]'s service, all will be made clear, and this distinction between steps on the ladder will become moot.

 

On the topic of hierarchy: hierarchies exist throughout the celestial administration of creature progress. Hierarchies are natural among your people no matter the culture. The question seems to be whether hierarchies exist in the interface between the morontia and the material. I perceive that hierarchies are inescapable, for there is no such thing as total equality between people. It is not for us to question the skills and talents which are bestowed by the Father upon the individual will creatures. Great differences in abilities exist between people closely related-from the same genetic lines. It is somehow a part of the Father's plan. With such variation among the participants, it is inescapable that hierarchy shall develop. The question is, shall we make the transition from the material life to the morontia life with or without the utilization of hierarchies. The Father in heaven knows all. We believe this. I have never seen any indication to the contrary. While we ourselves do not ascribe to the theory of providence and are instructed not to teach the theory of providence, the Father knows what tools are required. He will provide the necessaries. It is for us on this side and for you on that side to put them into action. Whatever is needed to effect the Father's plan will be provided, and freely. It is true that there was a disparity between the necessities provided to the disciples of Jesus and the sworn apostles of Jesus. Yet there is no way for me to distinguish for you the transit between those two points except as the embrace of faith. No answer which I provide to you will be intellectually or emotionally satisfying. Only the embrace of faith in the Father will be satisfactory. When you embrace the Father's love and the Father's service, all will be made clear, and this distinction between steps on the ladder will become moot.

The [[Sarasota TeaM|Sarasota group]] is as [[enthusiastic]] as this [[group]] is [[private]]. We are in the beginning of this [[movement]] and we must allow for variation among the [[people]] involved. They will do some things that will appear [[foolish]]. Many people have [[immediately]] questioned the validity of their [[contact]] because they attempted to circumvent the necessary [[process]] of communication [[development]] by employing a [[professional]] [[medium]]. It does not really hurt anything. Their contact is genuine and their teacher is not yet assigned. Their contact with Ramsey is genuine and the dialogue which took place on that evening is genuine. The people's hearts are good and, like anything, it is not how you start that counts, it is how you finish. This type of [[communication]] has its ups and downs. It is easy for the truest thought to be distorted unwittingly by the [[person]] who delivers the [[message]]. The only solution for it is to compile such a mass of material that the [[message]] comes through between the lines. Your [[hopes]] for [[heaven]] cannot depend upon the turn of a phrase, any more than they can depend upon a yes or no answer. We are not in the [[business]] of fostering such reliance. The person who shall relay the [[message]] initially in the [[Sarasota TeaM|Sarasota group]] needs [[practice]]. Some people are more suited for this type of [[communication]] than others. We think that is a [[point]] that is obvious. [[Fear]] is an incredible impediment to this type of [[communication]] but their communication so far, such as it is, is genuine enough. It certainly qualifies as valid. Things will work out more smoothly when they [[receive]] their assignment from their teacher. Roland is [[feeling]] [[conflict]]ing thoughts between [[embracing]] and fearing his teacher, Ramsey. I think that is the [[majority]] of [[topics]] raised. Were there further questions?

 

The Sarasota group is as enthusiastic as this group is private. We are in the beginning of this movement and we must allow for variation among the people involved. They will do some things that will appear foolish. Many people have immediately questioned the validity of their contact because they attempted to circumvent the necessary process of communication development by employing a professional medium. It does not really hurt anything. Their contact is genuine and their teacher is not yet assigned. Their contact with Ramsey is genuine and the dialogue which took place on that evening is genuine. The people's hearts are good and, like anything, it is not how you start that counts, it is how you finish. This type of communication has its ups and downs. It is easy for the truest thought to be distorted unwittingly by the person who delivers the message. The only solution for it is to compile such a mass of material that the message comes through between the lines. Your hopes for heaven cannot depend upon the turn of a phrase, any more than they can depend upon a yes or no answer. We are not in the business of fostering such reliance. The person who shall relay the message initially in the Sarasota group needs practice. Some people are more suited for this type of communication than others. We think that is a point that is obvious. Fear is an incredible impediment to this type of communication but their communication so far, such as it is, is genuine enough. It certainly qualifies as valid. Things will work out more smoothly when they receive their assignment from their teacher. Roland is feeling conflicting thoughts between embracing and fearing his teacher, Ramsey. I think that is the majority of topics raised. Were there further questions?

 

Secondly, I wanted to ask you about who mediums talk to generally. I think you heard us talk about this earlier and I am interested in what other spiritual stuff is flying around here that we don't know about. Could you comment on those two topics?

VINCENT: I have a couple of questions. I know it is bad to ask multiple questions but first of all, you call [Desmond], Roland. Now, that may have been an oversight but I also [[wondered]] when Ramsey was here, Ramsey called him [by his given name]. Why aren't you using, why isn't Ramsey using his [[spiritual]] [[name]] or did you make a mistake, because I thought Roland was someone else and I have heard a [[different]] [[name]] for [Desmond's] spiritual name.

WILL: Weeks ago, we attempted to use [Desmond's] cosmic name and Eric was reluctant for fear of making error. Therefore, his earthly name came through. This week we see the opposite side of that problem. This week Eric insisted on using [Desmond's] earthly name and when I tried to push the cosmic name upon his subconsciousness, he got it wrong. The business of names is tricky. For example, I have some difficulty remembering earthly names and must search Eric's memory baThroughout history, many humans have entertained contact with spiritual ministers on an individual basis. Ordinarily these individuals have been recipients of a ministry designed to develop their personal spiritual progress and their zeal to share the good news. They have often proselytized the messages that they honestly received. This is considered one of inevitable consequences of such celestial contact with humans. There is no particular harm done, but the rule has always been that when such messages are perverted through over-much ego aggrandizement or through exploitation for money or fame or other more subtle exercises of power over one's fellow creatures, communication is broken off. These valid contacts are virtually innumerable. But I understand by your question that you are referring to questionable contacts because of your use of the term "mediums". I will say that mediums speak a language-vocabulary-which is evocative of many people's progress aspirations. They sing the song that people would like to hear. Many are sensitive to energy transfers that ordinary mortals do not feel, cannot measure, and would be frightened by. The mediums themselves know little of these powers-only that they are there and that they may be utilized and that they may be turned to some positive good. It is possible for each of you to tap into the race intellect-the body of knowledge which is accumulated through human experience. But such mediums are extraordinary. In most cases, they are simply talking to themselves. Each of you knows that in your daydreams, you have conversations with yourself. Such conversations can become quite sophisticated and deal with only dimly remembered matters that could not be held readily accessible on the conscious mind and astonishing material may be drawn forth for, as your scientists have correctly discerned, you use but a minor fraction of your brain potential for memory and conscious thought. There is more detail available as to whether mediums deal with their mid-mind or deep mind, but the summation is, they speak with themselves. I hope that answers.

WILL: Weeks ago, we attempted to use [Desmond's] cosmic [[name]] and Eric was reluctant for [[fear]] of making [[error]]. Therefore, his earthly name came through. This week we see the [[opposite]] side of that [[problem]]. This week Eric insisted on using [Desmond's] earthly name and when I tried to push the cosmic name upon his [[subconsciousness]], he got it wrong. The business of [[names]] is tricky. For example, I have some difficulty remembering earthly names and must search Eric's [[memory]] throughout [[history]], many humans have entertained contact with spiritual ministers on an [[individual]] basis. Ordinarily these [[individuals]] have been recipients of a ministry designed to develop their personal [[spiritual progress]] and their zeal to [[share]] the good news. They have often proselytized the [[messages]] that they honestly received. This is considered one of inevitable [[consequences]] of such [[celestial]] [[contact]] with [[humans]]. There is no particular harm done, but the rule has always been that when such [[messages]] are [[perverted]] through over-much [[ego]] [[aggrandizement]] or through [[exploitation]] for [[money]] or [[fame]] or other more subtle exercises of [[power]] over one's fellow creatures, [[communication]] is broken off. These valid contacts are virtually innumerable. But I [[understand]] by your [[question]] that you are referring to questionable contacts because of your use of the term "[[mediums]]". I will say that mediums speak a [[language]]-vocabulary-which is evocative of many people's progress [[aspirations]]. They sing the [[song]] that people would like to hear. Many are [[sensitive]] to [[energy]] transfers that ordinary [[mortals]] do not feel, cannot measure, and would be [[frightened]] by. The mediums themselves know little of these [[powers]]-only that they are there and that they may be utilized and that they may be turned to some [[positive]] [[good]]. It is possible for each of you to tap into the race [[intellect]]-the body of [[knowledge]] which is accumulated through human [[experience]]. But such mediums are extraordinary. In most cases, they are simply talking to themselves. Each of you knows that in your daydreams, you have [[conversations]] with yourself. Such conversations can become quite sophisticated and deal with only dimly remembered matters that could not be held readily [[accessible]] on the conscious [[mind]] and astonishing [[material]] may be drawn forth for, as your [[scientists]] have correctly discerned, you use but a minor [[fraction]] of your [[brain]] [[potential]] for [[memory]] and [[conscious]] [[thought]]. There is more detail available as to whether mediums deal with their mid-mind or deep mind, but the summation is, they speak with themselves. I [[hope]] that answers.

I am trying to impress [Desmond's] cosmic name, but it is a problem. We will come back to it.

I am trying to impress [Desmond's] cosmic name, but it is a [[problem]]. We will come back to it.

*[Break]

*[Break]

Again, I greet you. This useful break was precipitated by an interruption in communication. Our friend is rightly concerned for the accuracy of the material. This type of communication is fraught with the opportunity for mistake, and he reacts strongly to a mistake.

Again, I greet you. This useful break was [[precipitated]] by an [[interruption]] in [[communication]]. Our friend is rightly concerned for the [[accuracy]] of the [[material]]. This type of communication is fraught with the [[opportunity]] for mistake, and he reacts strongly to a mistake.

Numerous among you have had an opportunity to see for yourselves the spiritual progress of people who are searching for the Father's love.

Numerous among you have had an [[opportunity]] to see for yourselves the [[spiritual progress]] of people who are searching for [[the Father]]'s [[love]].

I have a task which we would like for you to perform. We wish for you to be keenly aware, to observe and note the activities and posture of people who meet by ones and twos and in larger groups, attempting to develop their love for the Father in heaven and His son, Michael. It will be useful for you in your ministry, which is yet some distance away, to understand the activities that people are presently engaged in, in this genuine search for the Father. For this reason, we have asked Vincent to initiate a survey of the ministers who preach openly in the churches in your area. It is a large task. Any of you are welcome to assist him in this project. But each of you has contact with one or more groups who are seeking to deepen contact with the Father in heaven. Go visit them, see what they think. Be keenly aware whether they are deepening their personal relationship with the Father or developing the programmatic pursuit of intellectual or spiritual enlightenment.

I have a task which we would like for you to [[perform]]. We [[wish]] for you to be keenly [[aware]], to [[observe]] and note the [[activities]] and [[posture]] of people who meet by ones and twos and in larger [[groups]], attempting to [[develop]] their [[love]] for [[the Father]] in heaven and His son, [[Michael]]. It will be useful for you in your ministry, which is yet some distance away, to understand the [[activities]] that people are presently [[engaged]] in, in this genuine search for [[the Father]]. For this reason, we have asked Vincent to initiate a survey of the ministers who [[preach]] openly in the [[churches]] in your area. It is a large task. Any of you are [[welcome]] to assist him in this project. But each of you has contact with one or more groups who are seeking to deepen [[contact]] with [[the Father]] in heaven. Go [[visit]] them, see what they think. Be keenly [[aware]] whether they are deepening their personal [[relationship]] with [[the Father]] or developing the programmatic pursuit of [[intellectual]] or [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]].

The Melchizedek's task which Vincent and Eric performed was a fairly solid example of the way the Father works. The minister from the church was thinking largely in terms of projects, organization, programs. He was in some jeopardy of losing the thought of the personal service connection. We wish for each of you to develop the ability to distinguish between those groups which seek a personal relationship with the Father and those which seek a distant relationship and an arm's length relationship-an arm's-length relationship. Certain groups which are active in your community provide a useful and valid social service in the name of the Father, yet have little or nothing to do with the revelation or reception of the Father's personal ministry: His love, which is to be poured out on each of the people. The personal ministry of the Heavenly Father is the key concept which we have attempted to share with you over these past few months. We think that you have all made great progress absorbing these teachings.

The [[Melchizedek]]'s task which Vincent and Eric [[performed]] was a fairly solid example of the way [[the Father]] works. The minister from the [[church]] was thinking largely in terms of [[projects]], [[organization]], programs. He was in some [[jeopardy]] of losing the [[thought]] of the [[personal]] [[service]] connection. We wish for each of you to develop the [[ability]] to distinguish between those [[groups]] which seek a [[personal]] [[relationship]] with [[the Father]] and those which seek a distant [[relationship]] and an arm's length relationship-an arm's-length relationship. Certain [[groups]] which are active in your [[community]] provide a useful and valid [[social]] [[service]] in the name of the Father, yet have little or nothing to do with the [[revelation]] or [[reception]] of [[the Father]]'s personal ministry: His [[love]], which is to be poured out on each of the people. The [[personal]] ministry of the Heavenly Father is the key [[concept]] which we have attempted to [[share]] with you over these past few months. We [[think]] that you have all made great [[progress]] absorbing these teachings.

Many of you think that your [[stillness]] [[practice]] is unproductive, yet I say to you that this sincere [[worship]] of the [[Heavenly Father]] rockets straight to [[Paradise]], with no intervening [[interpretation]]. This [[sincere]] [[act]] of [[love]] and [[respect]] falls directly upon [[the Father]]'s ears. The Father will [[change]] your world, one person by one [[person]]. In order to do this, it is [[necessary]] for people, one person by one person, to [[embrace]] the [[love]] of [[the Father]], therefore we ask that you go out and, as [[opportunities]] present themselves, expose yourselves to these [[groups]], whether they are small or large. Try to gauge their [[concept]] of [[the Father]]'s activity in their lives.

Many of you think that your stillness practice is unproductive, yet I say to you that this sincere worship of the Heavenly Father rockets straight to Paradise, with no intervening interpretation. This sincere act of love and respect falls directly upon the Father's ears. The Father will change your world, one person by one person. In order to do this, it is necessary for people, one person by one person, to embrace the love of the Father, therefore we ask that you go out and, as opportunities present themselves, expose yourselves to these groups, whether they are small or large. Try to gauge their concept of the Father's activity in their lives.

You do not have a [[duty]] to [[represent]] your own [[thoughts]] on this subject to such groups but, if you should feel an undeniable urge to represent your highest [[understanding]] of [[the Father]]'s ministry-- if you should feel the [[activity]] of your [[Adjuster]] leading you onward-we [[encourage]] you, follow suit. While you might now think such an [[experience]] is terrifying, I [[assure]] you that it is not. It is [[sublime]]-to feel the [[Adjuster]] angling up, and you willing and consciously [[cooperating]] with His [[leading]]. It is a fast race we run up the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9TGj2jrJk8 staircase to heaven]. It is the [[work]] that you were all born to do and by now you well know there are an [[infinite]] [[number]] of forks leading to [[the Father]]'s road. If you should [[elect]] to pass one by, shortly another will be presented to you. You are not being tested. We are only placing [[opportunities]] in your path. It will change your view of your [[community]] to see the numbers of people who are concerned with [[spiritual development]]. You are not [[alone]]. Y[[our Father]] works with each of those people just as He is with us tonight.

Are there further questions tonight? If not, I will [[encourage]] you to [[communicate]] with those groups under [[development]] in your area, to [[communicate]] freely with all [[Urantia Book]] readers. In those groups under [[spiritual]] [[guidance]] such as this, you will find it instructive, and the [[degree]] of variety which is available. The [[Melchizedek]] has taken the minimum steps to [[influence]] the [[development]] of the new group now forming. We are all quite excited about these developments. Soon we will be adding groups monthly to our roster.

You do not have a duty to represent your own thoughts on this subject to such groups but, if you should feel an undeniable urge to represent your highest understanding of the Father's ministry-- if you should feel the activity of your Adjuster leading you onward-we encourage you, follow suit. While you might now think such an experience is terrifying, I assure you that it is not. It is sublime-to feel the Adjuster angling up, and you willing and consciously cooperating with His leading. It is a fast race we run up the staircase to heaven. It is the work that you were all born to do and by now you well know there are an infinite number of forks leading to the Father's road. If you should elect to pass one by, shortly another will be presented to you. You are not being tested. We are only placing opportunities in your path. It will change your view of your community to see the numbers of people who are concerned with spiritual development. You are not alone. Your Father works with each of those people just as He is with us tonight.

I wish to [[express]] my approval of you gathered here tonight. If you look back over the past several months, you will see great [[developments]] in your [[personal]] lives. As you look on your daily lives, I think you will notice that you are beginning to care for your brothers and sisters. It is a [[good]] [[development]]. I do not mean the increase of caring which is limited to those people in this group, but also those people that you meet in daily [[intercourse]]. I think that each of you can see that you are growing more fond of your [[companions]] in this [[material]] life; you are feeling some [[sincere]] concern for them. That is a good development. We are [[happy]] to see it. It is [[spontaneous]] in you. It is a sure sign of the [[purity]] of our [[effort]] and another [[confirmation]] of [[the Father]]'s ministry.

[[The Father]] holds you all in the palm of His hand. It is my [[joyous]] task to [[observe]] the daily [[events]] in your lives and to see the heartfelt [[response]] to our [[humble]] ministry, [[expressed]] here tonight. Therefore, I bid you a [[happy]] and productive week and will talk with you again soon. I am your [[teacher]] Will and I love you.

Are there further questions tonight? If not, I will encourage you to communicate with those groups under development in your area, to communicate freely with all Urantia Book readers. In those groups under spiritual guidance such as this, you will find it instructive, and the degree of variety which is available. The Melchizedek has taken the minimum steps to influence the development of the new group now forming. We are all quite excited about these developments. Soon we will be adding groups monthly to our roster.

[[Shalom]].

==Session 11==

==Session 11==

*02/25/92 Tuesday a.m. message from Will:

*02/25/92 Tuesday a.m. message from Will:

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

Good morning, my friend. I am your companion and teacher, Will.

Good morning, my [[friend]]. I am your [[companion]] and [[teacher]], Will.

I was touched by your reaction, yesterday, to the thought of me comforting you. Of course I comfort you! How foolish it is that your people pretend to carry their burdens alone. No wonder they feel isolated and resentful. Yet I was glad to see that you could feel a morontia touch. It is not like the touch of a material being, for it soothes a different, and somewhat unfamiliar, you. You, like all your study group, are growing in morontia power, and gaining an existence in that new transition realm. I can touch that part of you. It is very like your material body, but is built from the product of growing spiritual awareness.

I was [[touched]] by your [[reaction]], yesterday, to the thought of me [[comforting]] you. Of course I comfort you! How [[foolish]] it is that your people pretend to carry their burdens [[alone]]. No [[wonder]] they feel [[isolated]] and resentful. Yet I was glad to see that you could feel a [[morontia]] [[touch]]. It is not like the touch of a [[material]] [[being]], for it soothes a different, and somewhat unfamiliar, you. You, like all your [[study]] [[group]], are growing in [[morontia]] [[power]], and gaining an [[existence]] in that new [[transition]] realm. I can [[touch]] that part of you. It is very like your [[material]] [[body]], but is built from the product of growing [[spiritual]] [[awareness]].

I will [[respond]] to the question of the [[missionary]] trip to Mexico: This is a [[good]] thing, a [[worthy]] effort, but it is not asked. It is not [[necessary]] for any of you to go anywhere or do anything in order to do [[the Father]]'s work. The very notion is counterproductive -- that [[the Father]]'s [[work]] must be done in some special place. [[Opportunities]] abound within arm's reach daily, yet you do not [[perceive]] them. While specifically disapproving the concept of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_isolationism isolationism], as [[expressed]] in the popular bumper-sticker philosophy of ''Fix America First'', we will say that you need to [[concentrate]] your [[resources]] rather than scatter them. By this, we do not deny that valuable lessons and [[insights]] and the ever-growing [[simple]] joys of [[service]] are to be gained through such [[missionary]] [[acts]]. These things are equally true no matter where they are [[learned]]. The lesson is no less true for the locality in which it was learned. But I say to you again that it is unnecessary for you to go to any place to be about [[the Father]]'s work. This very day, you will be insensitive to your fellows who need what you already have and are able to dispense freely. This is akin to [[the Master]]'s easiest [[prediction]]: that Peter would deny him three times, before even the cock crowed. It is like saying the [[sun]] shall set this evening.

I will respond to the question of the missionary trip to Mexico: This is a good thing, a worthy effort, but it is not asked. It is not necessary for any of you to go anywhere or do anything in order to do the Father's work. The very notion is counterproductive -- that the Father's work must be done in some special place. Opportunities abound within arm's reach daily, yet you do not perceive them. While specifically disapproving the concept of isolationism, as expressed in the popular bumper-sticker philosophy of Fix America First, we will say that you need to concentrate your resources rather than scatter them. By this, we do not deny that valuable lessons and insights and the ever-growing simple joys of service are to be gained through such missionary acts. These things are equally true no matter where they are learned. The lesson is no less true for the locality in which it was learned. But I say to you again that it is unnecessary for you to go to any place to be about the Father's work. This very day, you will be insensitive to your fellows who need what you already have and are able to dispense freely. This is akin to the Master's easiest prediction: that Peter would deny him three times, before even the cock crowed. It is like saying the sun shall set this evening.

We neither approve nor disapprove the [[activity]] proposed; we simply find it unnecessary. If you [[desire]] to utilize your [[vacation]] time in this [[manner]], that is your [[choice]], but whether you stay, or go, or go to some other place, we can guarantee that you will encounter occasions to advance [[the Kingdom]]. Beyond that, there is nothing to say.

==Session 12==

==Session 14==

*February 27, 1992

*February 27, 1992

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

WILL: In response to Vincent's request for a personal message upon the event of his birthday, I have these words to say:

WILL: In [[response]] to Vincent's request for a [[personal]] [[message]] upon the event of his birthday, I have these [[words]] to say:

 

Vincent, you slacker. You still doubt that our daily communications are authentic. You think that I will transmit some secret password that will validate the truth of our one- and two- way conversations. How could such a password, if recognizable by you, not be within your personal knowledge and therefore yet another occasion for doubt?

Vincent, you slacker. You still [[doubt]] that our daily [[communications]] are [[authentic]]. You [[think]] that I will transmit some [[secret]] password that will validate the [[truth]] of our one- and two- way conversations. How could such a password, if recognizable by you, not be within your [[personal]] [[knowledge]] and therefore yet another occasion for doubt?

Alternatively, you seek an experience which will confirm the spiritual authenticity of these teachings and your role in them. I say to you that such experiences are only to be gained as a result of acts performed in the service of the kingdom. Your retort is, "Then what is my part in the plan?" And I say, yet again, that the plan is in the state of becoming. The entire universe is in the state of becoming. The Father, Himself, is in the state of becoming. So are you.

Alternatively, you seek an [[experience]] which will [[confirm]] the spiritual [[authenticity]] of these teachings and your role in them. I say to you that such [[experiences]] are only to be gained as a result of [[acts]] performed in the [[service]] of [[the kingdom]]. Your retort is, "Then what is my part in the [[plan]]?" And I say, yet again, that the plan is in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Becoming_%28philosophy%29 state of becoming]. The entire [[universe]] is in the state of becoming. [[The Father]], Himself, is in the state of becoming. So are you.

Not two days ago you spoke words with your visitor that have the power to shake worlds from their slumber, that "It is the process, not the result, that is the minister's spiritual goal." Then you leaned back in your chair and thought, "Yeah, but I wish I knew what the plan was..."

Not two days ago you [[spoke]] [[words]] with your [[visitor]] that have the power to shake worlds from their slumber, that "It is the [[process]], not the result, that is the minister's spiritual goal." Then you leaned back in your chair and [[thought]], "Yeah, but I wish I knew what the [[plan]] was..."

You have a plate full already, more than you can possibly appreciate. You have good work to do, both the task assigned by the Melchizedek, himself - Planetary Prince vicegerent - and the work of your professional life, these to be turned to the Father's purpose. You have my love and guidance, freely available, and you have the results of the Adjuster's activity, under-appreciated by you. Look within, not without, for guidance. Such signs as you shall see will be in the nature of affirmations, not exhortations.

You have a plate full already, more than you can possibly [[appreciate]]. You have [[good]] work to do, both the task assigned by the [[Melchizedek]], himself - [[Planetary Prince]] vicegerent - and the work of your [[professional]] life, these to be turned to [[the Father]]'s purpose. You have my [[love]] and [[guidance]], freely available, and you have the results of the [[Adjuster]]'s [[activity]], under-appreciated by you. Look within, not without, for [[guidance]]. Such signs as you shall see will be in the [[nature]] of affirmations, not exhortations.

The role of the spiritual ministers is trivial. It is your relationship with the Father above that should precede all other concerns. Real faith is simple, so simple that many good hearted and believing Urantia Book readers think that they can reason their way to God. But I say to you that the simplest person, imbecile in your measure, can more easily embrace the Father. So not look low, to me and to creatures of like order. Raise your sights to the Father and things will begin happening for you.

The role of the spiritual ministers is [[trivial]]. It is your [[relationship]] with [[the Father]] above that should precede all other concerns. Real [[faith]] is simple, so [[simple]] that many good hearted and believing [[Urantia Book]] readers think that they can [[reason]] their way to [[God]]. But I say to you that the [[simplest]] person, imbecile in your measure, can more easily [[embrace]] [[the Father]]. So not look low, to me and to [[creatures]] of like order. Raise your [[sights]] to [[the Father]] and things will begin happening for you.

I will tell you this much. It is foreseen that you will one day, in the material life, speak freely with your indwelling Adjuster, and know in your heart the will of God. You will be a great teacher, an example to many like minded people, and your ministry among your fellows will change not only your life but the lives of the unborn. You will continue in your craft, in the service of the Father, but your activities of those coming days will be unrecognizable to you today. You will get there. Michael sees merit in you.

I will tell you this much. It is foreseen that you will one day, in the material life, speak freely with your indwelling [[Adjuster]], and know in your [[heart]] the will of [[God]]. You will be a great [[teacher]], an example to many like minded people, and your ministry among your fellows will [[change]] not only your life but the lives of the unborn. You will continue in your craft, in the [[service]] of [[the Father]], but your [[activities]] of those coming days will be unrecognizable to you today. You will get there. [[Michael]] sees merit in you.

[[Category: The Teaching Mission: Dialogues]]

[[Category: The Teaching Mission: Dialogues]]

[[Category: Machiventa]]

[[Category: Machiventa]]

[[Category: Eric]]

[[Category: Eric]]

[[Category: 1992]]

[[Category: 1992]]