Changes

==Heading==

==Heading==

===Topic: ''Work''===

===Topic: ''Work and Worship''===

 

===Group: [[Laguna Hills TeaM]]===

===Group: [[Laguna Hills TeaM]]===

==Facilitators==

==Facilitators==

===TR: [[Joan Levine]]===

===TR: [[Joan Levine]]===

==Session==

==Session==

[Work as it relates to the [[qualities]] of Deity.] [The following lesson occurred, eleven days after the burning of two students' home in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malibu,_California#Wildfire Malibu fires].]  

[Work as it relates to the [[qualities]] of Deity.] [The following lesson occurred, eleven days after the burning of two students' home in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malibu,_California#Wildfire Malibu fires].]  

===Dialogue===

===Dialogue===

===='''''[[Work]]'''''====

===='''''[[Work]]'''''====

A: Yes, there must be the [[potential]] for [[error]].

A: Yes, there must be the [[potential]] for [[error]].

Q: And the [[fire]][http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malibu,_California#Wildfire] - the burning of the buildings - was, in itself, not spiritually [[evil]], but [[physically]] disastrous or bad, is that correct?

Q: And the [[fire]][https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malibu,_California#Wildfire] - the burning of the buildings - was, in itself, not spiritually [[evil]], but [[physically]] disastrous or bad, is that correct?

A: Yes.

A: Yes.

A: Yes, yet indeed He Himself [[acted]] as [[servant]] on many occasions. What other word than "servant" would you use for the one whose life is spent in [[service]]?

A: Yes, yet indeed He Himself [[acted]] as [[servant]] on many occasions. What other word than "servant" would you use for the one whose life is spent in [[service]]?

Q: He was "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Servant_songs the suffering servant]" [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.53] that was [[predicted]] in the [[Old Testament]].

Q: He was "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Servant_songs the suffering servant]" [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Isaiah#Chapter_.53] that was [[predicted]] in the [[Old Testament]].

A: Yes, indeed, and those who would follow Him also.

A: Yes, indeed, and those who would follow Him also.

Q: I [[think]] I understand the nature of the [[ascension plan]], that [http://www.lightandlife.us/ventolabio Vince Ventola] and my [[mother]] and others who have survived would not be aware any longer of loss or fear. So Vinny would not suffer the loss of his created work, nor would my [[mother]] be aware of things that were hers that were treasured that no longer exist in the material form, because they would be involved in [[spiritual]] activities. Is that correct?

Q: I [[think]] I understand the nature of the [[ascension plan]], that [https://www.lightandlife.us/ventolabio Vince Ventola] and my [[mother]] and others who have survived would not be aware any longer of loss or fear. So Vinny would not suffer the loss of his created work, nor would my [[mother]] be aware of things that were hers that were treasured that no longer exist in the material form, because they would be involved in [[spiritual]] activities. Is that correct?

A: Yes, yes that is true. Those from [[Urantia]] gave freely and with [[love]] and with no [[expectation]] of any continuing attachment to those physical items. And further, to use an [[analogy]] that I believe you will [[understand]], those are remnants of the [[womb]] to them in their present states. What [[think]] you of your [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placenta placenta]?

A: Yes, yes that is true. Those from [[Urantia]] gave freely and with [[love]] and with no [[expectation]] of any continuing attachment to those physical items. And further, to use an [[analogy]] that I believe you will [[understand]], those are remnants of the [[womb]] to them in their present states. What [[think]] you of your [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placenta placenta]?

S: It was thrown away and discarded after it had served its [[purpose]].

S: It was thrown away and discarded after it had served its [[purpose]].

S: I [[assume]] that there will be time left to [[worship]] after [[work]], and then we really may have time to enjoy eternal life a little bit. But I can't say that perplexed is the right [[word]].

S: I [[assume]] that there will be time left to [[worship]] after [[work]], and then we really may have time to enjoy eternal life a little bit. But I can't say that perplexed is the right [[word]].

R: Yes, well I was [[chided]] by my own instructors for having not [[clarified]] this matter, so I have [[composed]] the present lesson to do so. [[Understand]], my [[friends]], that at the time the [[Urantia Book]] [[information]] was handed down and [[transcribed]], there were many difficult [[decisions]] to be made regarding [[syntax]] and other linguistic details. For the [[animal]] mind outworking of [[intellect]] is [http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fastidious fastidious] in its highest [[development]] when [[linguistic]] considerations arise. That is to say, the masters who oversaw the [[project]] wished to have as little [[ambiguity]] as possible in the language used in the body of [[Urantia text|the papers]] themselves. And yet it was [[understood]] that these papers would stand for many [[generations]] as [[reference]] material, and language does indeed [[change]] through time.

R: Yes, well I was [[chided]] by my own instructors for having not [[clarified]] this matter, so I have [[composed]] the present lesson to do so. [[Understand]], my [[friends]], that at the time the [[Urantia Book]] [[information]] was handed down and [[transcribed]], there were many difficult [[decisions]] to be made regarding [[syntax]] and other linguistic details. For the [[animal]] mind outworking of [[intellect]] is [https://www.thefreedictionary.com/fastidious fastidious] in its highest [[development]] when [[linguistic]] considerations arise. That is to say, the masters who oversaw the [[project]] wished to have as little [[ambiguity]] as possible in the language used in the body of [[Urantia text|the papers]] themselves. And yet it was [[understood]] that these papers would stand for many [[generations]] as [[reference]] material, and language does indeed [[change]] through time.

So the [[decision]] was taken to use the [[language]] that was the most [[formal]] for the very time period during which [[the book]] was indicted, because [[formal]] usage is less susceptible to [[change]], particularly frivolous [[idiomatic]] change, than is [[casual]] usage. And so when the matter of work was [[discussed]], the [[linguistic]] [[value]] assigned to the word "work" was that of the earlier period of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century this century] of your time. That is, labor of the [[body]], primarily [[physical]] with relatively little [[spiritual]] content, somewhat more [[intellectual]] content, what you presently would call toil. And it is indeed true that at the time of [[light and life]] relatively little time in the life of a given [[Urantia]] [[individual]] will be spent in toil, [[physical]] labor. Again, the word "[[leisure]]", at the time of the indictment of [[Urantia text|the papers]], included those activities in which [[energy]] is expended toward [[spiritual growth]]. And thus the [[leisure]] time of [[light and life]], using that [[linguistic]] [[value]] of the word [[leisure]] will be [[worship]].

So the [[decision]] was taken to use the [[language]] that was the most [[formal]] for the very time period during which [[the book]] was indicted, because [[formal]] usage is less susceptible to [[change]], particularly frivolous [[idiomatic]] change, than is [[casual]] usage. And so when the matter of work was [[discussed]], the [[linguistic]] [[value]] assigned to the word "work" was that of the earlier period of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century this century] of your time. That is, labor of the [[body]], primarily [[physical]] with relatively little [[spiritual]] content, somewhat more [[intellectual]] content, what you presently would call toil. And it is indeed true that at the time of [[light and life]] relatively little time in the life of a given [[Urantia]] [[individual]] will be spent in toil, [[physical]] labor. Again, the word "[[leisure]]", at the time of the indictment of [[Urantia text|the papers]], included those activities in which [[energy]] is expended toward [[spiritual growth]]. And thus the [[leisure]] time of [[light and life]], using that [[linguistic]] [[value]] of the word [[leisure]] will be [[worship]].

Now we have [[discussed]] [[worship]] in past lessons.

Now we have [[discussed]] [[worship]] in past lessons.

S: I would like to hear you comment for just a few moments on the [[application]] of mental [[effort]] to a [[problem]], whether or not that is [[work]], and whether those who don't do manual labor but who work with [[ideas]] and [[correspondence]] and [[things]] of that [[nature]] are actually working. I know the answer's yes, but I would like to hear you [[explain]] what it is about this that has now encroached upon the [[definition]] of [[work]].

S: I would like to hear you comment for just a few moments on the [[application]] of mental [[effort]] to a [[problem]], whether or not that is [[work]], and whether those who don't do manual labor but who work with [[ideas]] and [[correspondence]] and [[things]] of that [[nature]] are actually working. I know the answer's yes, but I would like to hear you [[explain]] what it is about this that has now encroached upon the [[definition]] of [[work]].

R: Yes, certainly. You may recall that the mindal components of [[animal]] [[brain]] [[function]] are [[dual]] on [[this planet]], the [[physical]] out-workings and the [[intellectual]] out-workings, and as this planet and its [[cultures]] evolve, work which is done and the definition of [[work]] will evolve also. The most rudimentary form of work which occurs in the most [[primitive]] of human [[cultures]] [[encompasses]] those [[efforts]] which are required to barely [[survive]], which, of course, is [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunter_gatherer food gathering], [[protection]] of the [[young]], procreation and [[mating]], and [[shelter]] from elements and other threatening [[environmental]] factors. The next step involves the [[development]] of [[tools]] and other [[technological]] adjuncts through the first use of [[intellect]]. But at this [[stage]] still work is primarily [[physical]]. As the [[culture]] evolves there is more and more of [[intellectual]] work and less and less of [[physical]] work, and then in a [[normal planet]] of imperfect creation there will be that [[wonderful]] time at which the first of the [[spirit]] work begins to show on a [[cultural]] level. On [[this planet]] - because of [[interference]] with the [[plan]] - the period of time that has elapsed since that first bit of spirit work in the life of the [[average]] [[Urantia]] mortal showed and now has been so long. And the advancement has been so small by the accepted [[standards]] of [[the universes]]. Nonetheless that [[fragment]] of spirit [[work]] is there, but it is quite small now. During this [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century last century] of your time, the [[proportion]] of [[intellectual]] work to [[physical]] work has widened greatly for many, many persons in your [[culture]] and, indeed, over [[the planet]] at large. And just recently we have been most [[gratified]] to see a definite increase in the [[proportion]] of [[spiritual]] work undertaken by [[Folk|the great mass]] of [[Urantia]] [[mortals]]. This may seem like a long-winded answer to your question, but the short answer is that yes, of course, [[intellectual]] [[effort]] is very much [[work]]. As time passes on [[your planet]], in [[future]] times, [[physical]] work will become more or less [[extinct]], and the notion of toil will be applied increasingly to [[intellectual]] effort, and the notion of [[leisure]] to pure [[spirit]] [[development]]. But there will come the day that there will be widespread [[realization]] that spiritual [[effort]] is indeed [[work]]. Does that answer?

R: Yes, certainly. You may recall that the mindal components of [[animal]] [[brain]] [[function]] are [[dual]] on [[this planet]], the [[physical]] out-workings and the [[intellectual]] out-workings, and as this planet and its [[cultures]] evolve, work which is done and the definition of [[work]] will evolve also. The most rudimentary form of work which occurs in the most [[primitive]] of human [[cultures]] [[encompasses]] those [[efforts]] which are required to barely [[survive]], which, of course, is [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunter_gatherer food gathering], [[protection]] of the [[young]], procreation and [[mating]], and [[shelter]] from elements and other threatening [[environmental]] factors. The next step involves the [[development]] of [[tools]] and other [[technological]] adjuncts through the first use of [[intellect]]. But at this [[stage]] still work is primarily [[physical]]. As the [[culture]] evolves there is more and more of [[intellectual]] work and less and less of [[physical]] work, and then in a [[normal planet]] of imperfect creation there will be that [[wonderful]] time at which the first of the [[spirit]] work begins to show on a [[cultural]] level. On [[this planet]] - because of [[interference]] with the [[plan]] - the period of time that has elapsed since that first bit of spirit work in the life of the [[average]] [[Urantia]] mortal showed and now has been so long. And the advancement has been so small by the accepted [[standards]] of [[the universes]]. Nonetheless that [[fragment]] of spirit [[work]] is there, but it is quite small now. During this [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century last century] of your time, the [[proportion]] of [[intellectual]] work to [[physical]] work has widened greatly for many, many persons in your [[culture]] and, indeed, over [[the planet]] at large. And just recently we have been most [[gratified]] to see a definite increase in the [[proportion]] of [[spiritual]] work undertaken by [[Folk|the great mass]] of [[Urantia]] [[mortals]]. This may seem like a long-winded answer to your question, but the short answer is that yes, of course, [[intellectual]] [[effort]] is very much [[work]]. As time passes on [[your planet]], in [[future]] times, [[physical]] work will become more or less [[extinct]], and the notion of toil will be applied increasingly to [[intellectual]] effort, and the notion of [[leisure]] to pure [[spirit]] [[development]]. But there will come the day that there will be widespread [[realization]] that spiritual [[effort]] is indeed [[work]]. Does that answer?

===='''''[[Rest]]''''', '''''[[Play]]'''''====

===='''''[[Rest]]''''', '''''[[Play]]'''''====

You are the [[children]] in [[God]]'s [[family]], all of you who reside on planets of imperfect [[creation]], even as you serve as [[parents]] in your own families to your own [[children]]. How would you want your child to be? You would like your child to be good, and yet to [[work]] within his capacity toward [[perfection]] and [[independence]]. And the best way to ensure that his will happen is to yourself be a good child to your [[heavenly Father]]. Your child will naturally [[imitate]] your example.  

You are the [[children]] in [[God]]'s [[family]], all of you who reside on planets of imperfect [[creation]], even as you serve as [[parents]] in your own families to your own [[children]]. How would you want your child to be? You would like your child to be good, and yet to [[work]] within his capacity toward [[perfection]] and [[independence]]. And the best way to ensure that his will happen is to yourself be a good child to your [[heavenly Father]]. Your child will naturally [[imitate]] your example.  

As far as your second question regarding menial [[service]] and menial people, you correctly [[understand]] that God does not regard any of His children as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menial menial]. He is not even [[disappointed]] as a human [[father]] might be when time-related [[performance]] appears to be deficient. His [[love]] shines forth everlasting, without pause, and the good child of God knows when he has acted well and in [[accord]] with His Father's wishes because it is [[inherent]] in [[the cosmos]] that by behaving in accord with Father's wishes, you draw closer to [[the Father|Father]]. And that is a more rewarding [[experience]] than any other could possibly be. So the one that may be called, in [[human]] terms, a "menial person" might, in [[spiritual]] terms, be seen as one who is somewhat less close to God. Does that answer your question? (S: Perfectly.) (01/02/94)

As far as your second question regarding menial [[service]] and menial people, you correctly [[understand]] that God does not regard any of His children as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menial menial]. He is not even [[disappointed]] as a human [[father]] might be when time-related [[performance]] appears to be deficient. His [[love]] shines forth everlasting, without pause, and the good child of God knows when he has acted well and in [[accord]] with His Father's wishes because it is [[inherent]] in [[the cosmos]] that by behaving in accord with Father's wishes, you draw closer to [[the Father|Father]]. And that is a more rewarding [[experience]] than any other could possibly be. So the one that may be called, in [[human]] terms, a "menial person" might, in [[spiritual]] terms, be seen as one who is somewhat less close to God. Does that answer your question? (S: Perfectly.) (01/02/94)

===='''''[[Work]]''''', '''''[[Worship]]''''', '''''[[Service]]'''''====

===='''''[[Work]]''''', '''''[[Worship]]''''', '''''[[Service]]'''''====

Additionally, such God-directed work will help to [[reveal]] further [[truth]], by which I mean showing you and your fellow beings that which is of [[God]] in [[contrast]] to that which is of man. Part of what you do as a participant in [[this mission]], as a follower of [[Michael]], as a believer of [[the Father|Father]], is to strive as you go about your business to always find the higher [[meanings]] in that which you [[observe]] by means of your [[senses]]. It is as if you are a [[scientist]] exploring an [[ancient]] [[Ruins|ruined city]], sifting through the sands, searching for [[original]] [[artefacts]], remnants of buildings, [[structure]] of a [[culture]], carefully picking away with your brushes and brooms, your metal tools, scrapers and forceps. As you have been [[progressing]] with your [[spiritual growth]], you have been learning to use the spiritual [[tools]] of [[discernment]] which assist you in determining that which is Father's will and distinguishing it from that which is not Father's will, what we have referred to in past [[discussions]] as material. Each of you here today makes a living in a [[different]] [[Manner|fashion]]. You all have your [[talents]], your [[skills]], your [[training]], and there surely are [[differences]] in the manner in which you carry out your work. And yet, for each of you, as for every being on [[this planet]], there is much [[value]] not only in working in a [[sincere]], [[committed]], [[good]] and [[faithful]] fashion, but there is also a great [[potential]] for [[influencing]] your fellows on [[this planet]] as Michael [[Jesus]] influenced His fellows. Even now those of you who are not living at the same time period as Jesus are very much aware of His high [[qualities]] as a worker. He was much admired and much [[imitated]] as a worker in His [[fairness]],

Additionally, such God-directed work will help to [[reveal]] further [[truth]], by which I mean showing you and your fellow beings that which is of [[God]] in [[contrast]] to that which is of man. Part of what you do as a participant in [[this mission]], as a follower of [[Michael]], as a believer of [[the Father|Father]], is to strive as you go about your business to always find the higher [[meanings]] in that which you [[observe]] by means of your [[senses]]. It is as if you are a [[scientist]] exploring an [[ancient]] [[Ruins|ruined city]], sifting through the sands, searching for [[original]] [[artefacts]], remnants of buildings, [[structure]] of a [[culture]], carefully picking away with your brushes and brooms, your metal tools, scrapers and forceps. As you have been [[progressing]] with your [[spiritual growth]], you have been learning to use the spiritual [[tools]] of [[discernment]] which assist you in determining that which is Father's will and distinguishing it from that which is not Father's will, what we have referred to in past [[discussions]] as material. Each of you here today makes a living in a [[different]] [[Manner|fashion]]. You all have your [[talents]], your [[skills]], your [[training]], and there surely are [[differences]] in the manner in which you carry out your work. And yet, for each of you, as for every being on [[this planet]], there is much [[value]] not only in working in a [[sincere]], [[committed]], [[good]] and [[faithful]] fashion, but there is also a great [[potential]] for [[influencing]] your fellows on [[this planet]] as Michael [[Jesus]] influenced His fellows. Even now those of you who are not living at the same time period as Jesus are very much aware of His high [[qualities]] as a worker. He was much admired and much [[imitated]] as a worker in His [[fairness]],

His [[consideration]], His [[honesty]], His continual attempt to always produce a [[work]] of the highest [[quality]], His willingness to admit and correct [[mistakes]], and His striving to improve His own [[skills]]. Regardless of what your job may be as a worker, you can do all these things, too. In the eyes of [[the Father|Father]] there is no [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menial menial labor], nor is there any exalted [[work]] in the sense of how a material [[being]] earns his livelihood. Rather, one's [[work]] is [[judged]] according to those [[qualities]] which [[demonstrate]] a [[commitment]] to service to Father. Ask yourself, "Does my work measure up? How can I improve my [[work]]?" Remember, [[friends]], that you are always being [[observed]] by your fellows, by the unseen [[beings]] who move among you, and, of course, by Father. This should not cause you to be [[fearful]], but I tell you this so that you will be [[aware]] that your [[activities]] are important and should be carried out to the best of your [[ability]]. Now you all know that [[imperfection]] is your [[endowment]] and perfection is a long way off. Do not be harsh with yourself because your work is not [[perfect]]. And be [[merciful]] with your co-workers who are not perfect either. In yourself and in others search for the [[good]] qualities, the God directed [[qualities]]. Seek to [[amplify]] those, and you will be much [[gratified]] in the outcome, and much [[truth]] will be found.  

His [[consideration]], His [[honesty]], His continual attempt to always produce a [[work]] of the highest [[quality]], His willingness to admit and correct [[mistakes]], and His striving to improve His own [[skills]]. Regardless of what your job may be as a worker, you can do all these things, too. In the eyes of [[the Father|Father]] there is no [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menial menial labor], nor is there any exalted [[work]] in the sense of how a material [[being]] earns his livelihood. Rather, one's [[work]] is [[judged]] according to those [[qualities]] which [[demonstrate]] a [[commitment]] to service to Father. Ask yourself, "Does my work measure up? How can I improve my [[work]]?" Remember, [[friends]], that you are always being [[observed]] by your fellows, by the unseen [[beings]] who move among you, and, of course, by Father. This should not cause you to be [[fearful]], but I tell you this so that you will be [[aware]] that your [[activities]] are important and should be carried out to the best of your [[ability]]. Now you all know that [[imperfection]] is your [[endowment]] and perfection is a long way off. Do not be harsh with yourself because your work is not [[perfect]]. And be [[merciful]] with your co-workers who are not perfect either. In yourself and in others search for the [[good]] qualities, the God directed [[qualities]]. Seek to [[amplify]] those, and you will be much [[gratified]] in the outcome, and much [[truth]] will be found.  

This is the end of this lesson. I will gladly receive comments or [[questions]].

This is the end of this lesson. I will gladly receive comments or [[questions]].

R : That is a very good question. The one who [[participates]] in [[activities]] which are [[harmful]] to fellow [[beings]], of course, is knowingly choosing to go against Father's will. I do not think anyone here would disagree that Father would not have [[drugs]] [[disseminated]] to [[children]] or others who are weak and [[vulnerable]]. However, even the one who chooses to earn a living in an [[evil]] way can carry out evil [[duties]] [[paradoxical]] as it may seem in a [[Manner|fashion]] which is a [[model]] of [[sincerity]] and [[honesty]]. But you probably would have to look very hard to find such a person. My [[understanding]] from the [[mind]] of the [[channel]] is that drug dealers do not hesitate to kill others for nonpayment or to sell their product to persons who will surely die soon. Even if this is done in a [[diligent]] fashion, how can it be good? And yet there are always [[exceptions]], are there not?

R : That is a very good question. The one who [[participates]] in [[activities]] which are [[harmful]] to fellow [[beings]], of course, is knowingly choosing to go against Father's will. I do not think anyone here would disagree that Father would not have [[drugs]] [[disseminated]] to [[children]] or others who are weak and [[vulnerable]]. However, even the one who chooses to earn a living in an [[evil]] way can carry out evil [[duties]] [[paradoxical]] as it may seem in a [[Manner|fashion]] which is a [[model]] of [[sincerity]] and [[honesty]]. But you probably would have to look very hard to find such a person. My [[understanding]] from the [[mind]] of the [[channel]] is that drug dealers do not hesitate to kill others for nonpayment or to sell their product to persons who will surely die soon. Even if this is done in a [[diligent]] fashion, how can it be good? And yet there are always [[exceptions]], are there not?

S: Rayson, somewhat related to the previous [[question]], in terms of [[value]] of the work that we do, no one [[position]] is more elevated than another, and there's really no such thing as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menial menial work]. But what, if any, [[responsibility]] do we have to apply our [[God]] given [[talents]], to strive to find work that would utilize those [[qualities]], that would best further the Father's will? We are all [[different]]. For an example, someone has a [[musical]] talent which, if [[developed]], might be able to a greater [[degree]] [[disseminate]] [[truth]], but instead they deny that talent and work as a dishwasher in a restaurant. Is there any [[moral]] or [[ethical]] [[responsibility]] - well, can you just comment on that please?

S: Rayson, somewhat related to the previous [[question]], in terms of [[value]] of the work that we do, no one [[position]] is more elevated than another, and there's really no such thing as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menial menial work]. But what, if any, [[responsibility]] do we have to apply our [[God]] given [[talents]], to strive to find work that would utilize those [[qualities]], that would best further the Father's will? We are all [[different]]. For an example, someone has a [[musical]] talent which, if [[developed]], might be able to a greater [[degree]] [[disseminate]] [[truth]], but instead they deny that talent and work as a dishwasher in a restaurant. Is there any [[moral]] or [[ethical]] [[responsibility]] - well, can you just comment on that please?

R: I can share with you a [[model]] that has been [[developed]] on [[other planets]] of imperfect [[creation]] which has lead to good outcomes.

R: I can share with you a [[model]] that has been [[developed]] on [[other planets]] of imperfect [[creation]] which has lead to good outcomes.

R: Who cannot?

R: Who cannot?

S: I would say the [[women]] in the [[rape]] camps in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serbia Serbia]. Women, single parents, in [[poverty]] stricken communities in this country, stuck on welfare, who do the [[work]] of their immediate [[environment]] but don't have the [[privilege]] to sit back and [[postulate]] on [[spiritual]] [[values]] and their [[ethical]] [[responsibility]] to cultivate a [[talent]], because they're busy trying to find [[food]] for their children.

S: I would say the [[women]] in the [[rape]] camps in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serbia Serbia]. Women, single parents, in [[poverty]] stricken communities in this country, stuck on welfare, who do the [[work]] of their immediate [[environment]] but don't have the [[privilege]] to sit back and [[postulate]] on [[spiritual]] [[values]] and their [[ethical]] [[responsibility]] to cultivate a [[talent]], because they're busy trying to find [[food]] for their children.

R: But do you not see that by doing what you say and [[performing]] as loving and caring [[parents]] they are very much working?

R: But do you not see that by doing what you say and [[performing]] as loving and caring [[parents]] they are very much working?

R: You [[enjoy]] your [[work]].

R: You [[enjoy]] your [[work]].

S: OK, I guess we're really used to [[thinking]] of work in a very [[regimented]] kind of way, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W2_form W-2 forms] and all that, but you're [[speaking]] of work in a broader sense then?

S: OK, I guess we're really used to [[thinking]] of work in a very [[regimented]] kind of way, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W2_form W-2 forms] and all that, but you're [[speaking]] of work in a broader sense then?

R: Yes, work is a [[worship]] [[activity]] which is a [[difficult]] [[concept]] to grasp while in the [[material]] [[state]]. However, it is true that this is the case, and [[understanding]] this may make it easier for you to trudge along in your toil on [[Urantia]] with a loving [[attitude]] and far reaching goals in [[mind]].

R: Yes, work is a [[worship]] [[activity]] which is a [[difficult]] [[concept]] to grasp while in the [[material]] [[state]]. However, it is true that this is the case, and [[understanding]] this may make it easier for you to trudge along in your toil on [[Urantia]] with a loving [[attitude]] and far reaching goals in [[mind]].

R: You are much loved by myself and the others in attendance today and those who have beheld you at all of the sessions and at all times in your [[existence]]. I shall bid you [[farewell]], my [[friends]], and I urge you to work hard during this interim period and consider your topic of [[cooperation]] and [[reflect]] upon it. You all have the [[capacity]] for [[reflectivity]] and may develop that muscle, as you say, to a very fine and [[precise]] level, if you work hard. I bid you [[farewell]]. All: Farewell. (01/22/94)

R: You are much loved by myself and the others in attendance today and those who have beheld you at all of the sessions and at all times in your [[existence]]. I shall bid you [[farewell]], my [[friends]], and I urge you to work hard during this interim period and consider your topic of [[cooperation]] and [[reflect]] upon it. You all have the [[capacity]] for [[reflectivity]] and may develop that muscle, as you say, to a very fine and [[precise]] level, if you work hard. I bid you [[farewell]]. All: Farewell. (01/22/94)

===WORSHIP AND THE ART OF LIVING===

===='''''[[Worship]]''''', '''''[[Art of Living]]'''''====

 

Today's discussion will center on the admixture of two important topic

Today's [[discussion]] will [[center]] on the admixture of [[two]] important [[topics]]

S: worship and the art of living, both of which have been presented as separate areas of discussion in the past. Bear in mind, friends, as you proceed with your individual learning, that the areas of spiritual growth that you may consider to be discreet and separate topics are actually parts of a continuum, not separate and apart at all, but rather parts that are inseparable and inextricably intertwined with the whole fabric of what is. This, of course, applies to spirituality in general and the art of living and with worship. As we have mentioned before, worship is that which glorifies the Father, not merely singing His praises, but all activities which express the will of Father, in other words, the art of living. You have been endowed with the gift of life, a gift of love from Father, but if you wish to elevate yourselves above the level of animal life, it is necessary to work at worship.

S: [[Worship]] and the [[art of living]], both of which have been presented as [[separate]] areas of [[discussion]] in the [[past]]. Bear in [[mind]], [[friends]], as you [[proceed]] with your [[individual]] [[learning]], that the areas of [[spiritual growth]] that you may consider to be [[discrete]] and [[separate]] [[topics]] are actually parts of a [[continuum]], not separate and apart at all, but rather parts that are inseparable and inextricably intertwined with the whole [[fabric]] of what is. This, of course, applies to [[spirituality]] in general and the [[art of living]] and with [[worship]]. As we have mentioned before, [[worship]] is that which [[glorifies]] [[the Father]], not merely [[singing]] His praises, but all [[activities]] which [[express]] the will of Father, in other [[words]], the [[art of living]]. You have been [[endowed]] with the [[gift]] of life, a gift of [[love]] from Father, but if you wish to elevate yourselves above the level of [[animal]] life, it is [[necessary]] to [[work]] at [[worship]].

Sometimes the work is easy, but very often it is difficult, taxing, challenging. It will take you to the edge of your capacity to perceive that which is right, and it will test your ability to do that which is right despite almost overwhelming - temptation is not the right word, but I shall use it for want of better - temptation to behave in a different fashion. In thinking of the art of living, you may, in your mind, have a vision of a leisurely existence with comfort and pleasure in abundance. And this may indeed come about if you have truly mastered the art of living, and in your actions - each and every one of these - express worship for Father. However, it is quite rare for mortals of animal descent to ever reach the level of proficiency in spiritual expression where such a comfort level is attained. Rather, most who aspire to the art of living and improved worship find their lives to be difficult, arduous, and full of struggle, not without pain, a continuing test. And this is what you, yourselves, are most likely to experience should you choose this mode of existence. Look into yourselves, my friends consult with your indwelling Adjuster and you will have a willing and helpful guide along the road that will lead you to the art of living. Along the way of this path, you will find that fear, pride, anger will diminish as you work and struggle, and greed, of course, will fall by the wayside leaving you lighter and stronger. But make no mistake, this is a rocky, uphill path, and lonely, if you define loneliness as prolonged endeavor without the company of your fellow mortals. It will not be lonely in the sense of lack of spiritual company for you all have many who stand by you to help, to advise, and to observe this great experiment on Urantia. How does one take the first step?

Sometimes the [[work]] is easy, but very often it is [[difficult]], taxing, challenging. It will take you to the edge of your [[capacity]] to [[perceive]] that which is right, and it will test your [[ability]] to do that which is right despite almost overwhelming - [[temptation]] is not the right [[word]], but I shall use it for want of better - temptation to behave in a different [[Manner|fashion]]. In [[thinking]] of the [[art of living]], you may, in your [[mind]], have a [[vision]] of a [[leisurely]] [[existence]] with [[comfort]] and [[pleasure]] in [[abundance]]. And this may indeed come about if you have truly mastered the [[art of living]], and in your [[actions]] - each and every one of these - [[express]] [[worship]] for [[the Father|Father]]. However, it is quite rare for [[mortals]] of [[animal]] descent to ever reach the level of proficiency in spiritual [[expression]] where such a [[comfort]] level is [[attained]]. Rather, most who [[aspire]] to the [[art of living]] and improved [[worship]] find their lives to be [[difficult]], arduous, and full of struggle, not without [[pain]], a continuing test. And this is what you, yourselves, are most likely to [[experience]] should you [[choose]] this [[mode]] of [[existence]]. Look into yourselves, my [[friends]] consult with your indwelling [[Adjuster]] and you will have a willing and helpful [[guide]] along the road that will lead you to the [[art of living]]. Along the way of this [[path]], you will find that [[fear]], [[pride]], [[anger]] will diminish as you [[work]] and [[struggle]], and [[greed]], of course, will fall by the wayside leaving you lighter and stronger. But make no mistake, this is a rocky, uphill [[path]], and [[lonely]], if you define loneliness as prolonged endeavor without the company of your fellow [[mortals]]. It will not be lonely in the sense of lack of spiritual company for you all have many who stand by you to help, to [[advise]], and to observe this great [[experiment]] on [[Urantia]]. How does one take the first step?

The first step is to make a freewill decision that this is what you truly and sincerely wish to have for yourself, no matter what the cost may be. To put aside fear, to realize that some material goals you hold dear may be slower of attainment, or may never be realized at all - for attainment of goals, both spiritual and material, requires expenditure of time and energy. One cannot divest energy toward more than a few major goals simultaneously and achieve success. You all know that. In fact, part of your decision to take that step must be to take the decision that your spiritual mission supersedes all others. Are you ready for that, my friends? Are you truly ready? Are you ready to give up some of your comfort? Are you ready to step out of the world of man the animal and walk toward the world of the future man, the spiritual, the fulfilled, the world of your children, grandchildren, great, great grandchildren? Look into yourselves and decide if it is something you cannot do now. You will be offered the opportunity beyond this life and far more information will be available to you at that time. To take the step now is far more an act of faith than it will ever be at any future time in your existence. And it is that faith, my friends, that marks you on Urantia and on the other planets of the rebellion as being so very special in the universe. Worship of Father is not an activity that is confined to a particular time of the day on a particular day of the week with a particular group of people. Rather, worship is expressed in every breath that you take, every word that you utter, and every move that you make. It is particularly evident in your interactions with fellow beings, all fellow beings. When you express worship of Father in your connection to another being, your spiritual light increases ever so slightly in its intensity.

The first step is to make a [[freewill]] decision that this is what you truly and [[sincerely]] [[wish]] to have for yourself, no matter what the [[cost]] may be. To put aside [[fear]], to [[realize]] that some material [[goals]] you hold dear may be slower of [[attainment]], or may never be realized at all - for [[attainment]] of goals, both [[spiritual]] and [[material]], requires [[expenditure]] of [[time]] and [[energy]]. One cannot divest energy toward more than a few major goals [[simultaneously]] and [[achieve]] success. You all know that. In [[fact]], part of your [[decision]] to take that step must be to take the decision that your spiritual [[mission]] supersedes all others. Are you ready for that, my [[friends]]? Are you truly ready? Are you ready to give up some of your [[comfort]]? Are you ready to step out of the world of man the [[animal]] and walk toward the world of the [[future]] man, the [[spiritual]], the [[fulfilled]], the world of your [[children]], grandchildren, great, great grandchildren? Look into yourselves and [[decide]] if it is something you cannot do now. You will be offered the [[opportunity]] beyond this life and far more [[information]] will be available to you at that time. To take the step now is far more an [[act]] of [[faith]] than it will ever be at any [[future]] time in your [[existence]]. And it is that [[faith]], my friends, that marks you on [[Urantia]] and on the [[other planets of the rebellion]] as being so very special in [[the universe]]. [[Worship]] of [[the Father|Father]] is not an [[activity]] that is confined to a particular [[time]] of the day on a particular day of the week with a particular group of people. Rather, [[worship]] is expressed in every [[breath]] that you take, every [[word]] that you utter, and every move that you make. It is particularly [[evident]] in your [[interactions]] with fellow [[beings]], all fellow beings. When you [[express]] [[worship]] of Father in your [[connection]] to another being, your [[spiritual]] [[light]] increases ever so slightly in its [[intensity]].

The day will come when you will be able to perceive this much more clearly than you do now. There are some among you who can, even now, see this light, or feel it. And I am certain that all of you here today can sense it. Truth, beauty, goodness and love, such simple sounding concepts, these are the essence of worship and the essence of Father's love for you and all His creation. The universe is all of what is. It is not a collection of individual egos, each crying out for expression. It is the wave that ensues when beings act in concert for the good of all, and the non-participants are not heard. It does not matter, really, except as a brief flicker on the surface. The wave breaks on the shore not because one water molecule is particularly strong, but because all the water molecules act in concert. So too with the progress of this universe, or any universe, or in fact all of creation. And you, my friends, as mortals created with free will capacity are not just carried along as are those created perfect. You, in fact, can help to create your own wave, not your own individual wave, but your own collective wave that adds such a beautiful voice to the choir. You are not created perfect, and perfection is not demanded of you. Instead it is asked that you strive toward that which is perfect which you have an inner realization of. It is your striving that adds to the voice, and when you fail to strive, that is when your voice is silent. In the grand scheme of the universe the recognition goes to that which is correct.

The day will come when you will be able to [[perceive]] this much more [[clearly]] than you do now. There are some among you who can, even now, see this [[light]], or [[feel]] it. And I am certain that all of you here today can sense it. [[Truth, beauty, goodness]] and [[love]], such [[simple]] sounding [[concepts]], these are the [[essence]] of [[worship]] and the essence of Father's [[love]] for you and all His [[creation]]. [[The universe]] is all of what is. It is not a [[collection]] of [[individual]] [[egos]], each crying out for [[expression]]. It is the [[wave]] that ensues when [[beings]] act in [[concert]] for the [[good]] of all, and the non-participants are not heard. It does not matter, really, except as a brief flicker on the [[surface]]. The [[wave]] breaks on the shore not because one water [[molecule]] is particularly [[strong]], but because all the water [[molecules]] act in [[concert]]. So too with the [[progress]] of [[this universe]], or any [[universe]], or in [[fact]] [[all of creation]]. And you, my [[friends]], as [[mortals]] created with [[free will]] capacity are not just carried along as are those created [[perfect]]. You, in [[fact]], can help to create your own [[wave]], not your own individual wave, but your own [[collective]] [[wave]] that adds such a beautiful [[voice]] to the choir. You are not created [[perfect]], and perfection is not demanded of you. Instead it is asked that you strive toward that which is perfect which you have an inner [[realization]] of. It is your striving that adds to the [[voice]], and when you [[fail]] to strive, that is when your [[voice]] is [[silent]]. In the grand scheme of [[the universe]] the [[recognition]] goes to that which is correct.

That is the motivation beyond the material life for the strivings of creatures, because the sense of being right, of worshiping Father, is so wonderful. And to not have that feeling, by contrast, seems so empty, not necessarily painful, but rather not wonderful, not good. You can get a sense of that when you are on the right path, worshiping in your lives and working toward the achievement of the art of living. If you lose the thread and feel you cannot find your way, think about Michael and His life in the flesh. What would He do? How would He conduct Himself? You are all to be congratulated for your diligent efforts and your personal progress. More than ever there is the sense that things are going well with this mission. It will not be a perfect adventure because you are not perfect beings, but it will be a wonderful adventure because Father's ways are wonderful. I will stop at this point and receive questions, if you have any.

That is the [[motivation]] beyond the [[material]] life for the strivings of [[creatures]], because the sense of being right, of [[worshiping]] Father, is so [[wonderful]]. And to not have that [[feeling]], by [[contrast]], seems so empty, not necessarily [[painful]], but rather not [[wonderful]], not [[good]]. You can get a sense of that when you are on the right [[path]], worshiping in your lives and working toward the [[achievement]] of the [[art of living]]. If you lose the thread and feel you cannot find your way, think about [[Michael]] and His life in the [[flesh]]. What would He do? How would He [[conduct]] Himself? You are all to be [[congratulated]] for your [[diligent]] [[efforts]] and your personal [[progress]]. More than ever there is the sense that things are going well with [[this mission]]. It will not be a perfect [[adventure]] because you are not perfect [[beings]], but it will be a [[wonderful]] [[adventure]] because Father's ways are wonderful. I will stop at this [[point]] and receive [[questions]], if you have any.

Q: I've been concerned that I wasn't efficient in worshiping our Father well enough. I read from your lesson that probably none of us are, but we gain some comfort from the words that you said. Is love a prerequisite for worship?

Q: I've been concerned that I wasn't [[efficient]] in [[worshiping]] [[our Father]] well enough. I [[read]] from your lesson that probably none of us are, but we gain some [[comfort]] from the [[words]] that you said. Is love a prerequisite for [[worship]]?

A: Yes, but again, you will not experience perfect love, so do the best that you can. (S), you are much loved and you are doing quite well, and there is no reason to feel remorse. Continue on your path. You know when you are doing well, do you not?

A: Yes, but again, you will not [[experience]] perfect [[love]], so do the best that you can. (S), you are much loved and you are doing quite well, and there is no reason to [[feel]] [[remorse]]. Continue on your [[path]]. You know when you are doing well, do you not?

S: Well, yes, only sometimes. I want to do better. Most of the time I want to do better.

S: Well, yes, only sometimes. I want to do better. Most of the time I want to do better.

R: Patience is a part of love. Is it not?

R: [[Patience]] is a part of [[love]]. Is it not?

S: It seems to me that it is. I set aside times for worship and in those times I try to mentally say that I love the Father and that I actually worship the Father. But I haven't any real meaning to the idea. It gives me some pleasure and satisfaction to say it, but I really don't know what I'm saying.

S: It seems to me that it is. I set aside times for [[worship]] and in those times I try to mentally say that I love [[the Father]] and that I actually [[worship]] [[the Father]]. But I haven't any real [[meaning]] to the [[idea]]. It gives me some [[pleasure]] and [[satisfaction]] to say it, but I really don't know what I'm saying.

R: Do you say it in isolation, or do you say it when you are among others?

R: Do you say it in [[isolation]], or do you say it when you are among others?

S: Well, both, but I don't say it aloud when I'm among others.

S: Well, both, but I don't say it aloud when I'm among others.

R: What markers of success are you looking at?

R: What markers of [[success]] are you looking at?

S: That is what I was going to ask you. I don't know what the markers of success are. I feel supported, full, loved, but then I don't feel that I'm doing enough.

S: That is what I was going to ask you. I don't know what the markers of success are. I feel [[supported]], full, loved, but then I don't feel that I'm doing enough.

R: The feelings that you have are the markers of your success. The response of others to you is the marker of your success.

R: The [[feelings]] that you have are the markers of your [[success]]. The [[response]] of others to you is the marker of your success.

S: I hear you talking about problems and travail that are blessings. I really haven't been blessed with any of those. I have everything it seems that life can offer a loving family, very close friends, and a good relationship with God. I wonder if this is a test: no hardship?

S: I hear you [[talking]] about [[problems]] and travail that are [[blessings]]. I really haven't been blessed with any of those. I have [[everything]] it seems that life can offer a loving [[family]], very close [[friends]], and a good [[relationship]] with [[God]]. I wonder if this is a test: no hardship?

R: You have had your hardships, but the human mind is quite remarkable in that, with the passage of time, pain is forgotten in its fullest intensity. This helps to protect you, for you are a creature of flesh and blood, and if you were to continue to experience the pain of every difficulty, life would be intolerable.

R: You have had your hardships, but the [[human mind]] is quite remarkable in that, with the passage of [[time]], [[pain]] is forgotten in its fullest [[intensity]]. This helps to protect you, for you are a [[creature]] of flesh and blood, and if you were to continue to [[experience]] the pain of every [[difficulty]], life would be intolerable.

S2: (S) is expressing some of the same feelings I've been having that I am not spending enough time in worship. Yet, I feel like I have Father with me all the time. Yet I regret I'm not spending enough time alone with Him, solely with Him. And today I feel like I made a connection and a commitment during our lesson that will help me to do better at this. And I thank you very much for your lesson.

S2: (S) is [[expressing]] some of the same [[feelings]] I've been having that I am not spending enough time in [[worship]]. Yet, I feel like I have Father with me all the time. Yet I [[regret]] I'm not spending enough time [[alone]] with Him, solely with Him. And today I feel like I made a [[connection]] and a [[commitment]] during our lesson that will help me to do better at this. And I thank you very much for your lesson.

R: You are most welcome. Perhaps, (S) & (S2), the anxiety you experience with regard to your own spiritual growth has to do with the fact that you are looking for material signs of spiritual effectiveness. You will never see those. That is where your faith comes in. It is worship enough at the end of a long and successful life to wake up in the morning, to care for oneself, to not be a burden to others, to maintain one's health, and to be loving in one's interactions on a social level. You both do that quite well. Neither of you engage in the practice of castigating your offspring for failures of your own health or finances, nor do you spend time in regret over what may have been. Those activities would be the opposite of worship. It would not be in your best interests to conduct your worshipful lives in the same fashion as you did when you were twenty or thirty years old. My sense is that you are handling it quite well, and it may help you to know that your living example is very important to the other participants of this mission who are younger than you are. Does that help?

R: You are most [[welcome]]. Perhaps, (S) & (S2), the [[anxiety]] you [[experience]] with regard to your own [[spiritual growth]] has to do with the [[fact]] that you are looking for [[material]] [[signs]] of spiritual effectiveness. You will never see those. That is where your [[faith]] comes in. It is [[worship]] enough at the end of a long and successful life to [[wake]] up in the [[morning]], to [[care]] for oneself, to not be a burden to others, to [[maintain]] one's [[health]], and to be loving in one's [[interactions]] on a [[social]] level. You both do that quite well. Neither of you [[engage]] in the [[practice]] of castigating your [[offspring]] for [[failures]] of your own [[health]] or [[finances]], nor do you spend time in [[regret]] over what may have been. Those activities would be the [[opposite]] of [[worship]]. It would not be in your best interests to conduct your [[worshipful]] lives in the same fashion as you did when you were twenty or thirty years old. My sense is that you are handling it quite well, and it may help you to know that your living [[example]] is very important to the other participants of [[this mission]] who are younger than you are. Does that help?

S2: Yes, it helps, and it seems that the absence of unloving behavior is a form of worship. I think that's a beautiful thought.

S2: Yes, it helps, and it seems that the [[absence]] of unloving [[behavior]] is a form of [[worship]]. I think that's a [[beautiful]] thought.

R: Yes, is it not paradoxical that what you perceive in the material is the negative, not the positive, and what you perceive in the spiritual is the positive, not the negative. Is that not true? (

R: Yes, is it not [[paradoxical]] that what you [[perceive]] in the material is the [[negative]], not the [[positive]], and what you perceive in the [[spiritual]] is the positive, not the negative. Is that not true? (

S: Yes.)

S: Yes.)

R: Just a bit of mota.

R: Just a bit of [[mota]].

Q: Along the lines of worship, I feel that worship is something that flows in and out of my life. For example, (S) and I were surfing this morning, and just to sit out there and see what God has made. And in those moments just know that He hears how grateful I am, that's worship too, isn't it?

Q: Along the lines of [[worship]], I feel that worship is something that [[flows]] in and out of my life. For [[example]], (S) and I were [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surfing surfing] this [[morning]], and just to sit out there and see what [[God]] has made. And in those [[moments]] just know that He hears how [[grateful]] I am, that's [[worship]] too, isn't it?

R: Yes, and certainly your fellowship with (S) is most worshipful.

R: Yes, and certainly your fellowship with (S) is most worshipful.

S: So I'm thinking along the lines of (S2) and (S3) who to me epitomize worship. No one could be more loved and more respected. If I could just become like them when I grow up, I would think everything I did was right.

S: So I'm [[thinking]] along the lines of (S2) and (S3) who to me epitomize [[worship]]. No one could be more loved and more [[respected]]. If I could just become like them when I [[grow]] up, I would think [[everything]] I did was right.

R: Yet, you hear their doubts. It is good for you to speak your feelings along these lines, and remember, my dear, worship means doing the right thing at the right time. You were right to attend to your families' need rather than to attend Michael's party. God has no need of your food, but He needs your loving interaction with your relatives, and through that you help to spread His teachings. Do you see?

R: Yet, you hear their [[doubts]]. It is [[good]] for you to speak your [[feelings]] along these lines, and remember, my dear, [[worship]] means doing the right thing at the right time. You were right to attend to your [[families]]' need rather than to attend [[Michael]]'s party. [[God]] has no need of your [[food]], but He needs your loving [[interaction]] with your relatives, and through that you help to spread His teachings. Do you see?

S: I believe that. I don't always do it, but if I could just do good always, I couldn't do any better than that. So, if I think I'm doing good, I feel OK about what I do. I seem to have a pretty good reality checker inside me, so if I just follow my inner promptings, I know that it will be OK. I feel like I'm getting better, and I know you know what this means. So thanks.

S: I [[believe]] that. I don't always do it, but if I could just do good always, I couldn't do any better than that. So, if I think I'm doing [[good]], I feel OK about what I do. I seem to have a pretty good [[reality]] checker inside me, so if I just follow my inner promptings, I know that it will be OK. I feel like I'm getting better, and I know you know what this means. So thanks.

R: You are most welcome.

R: You are most welcome.

Q: With regard to your lesson today, these are requests for confirmation to see if I understood the lesson correctly. We worship not just in solitude, but in our communion and truck with our fellows every day?

Q: With regard to your lesson today, these are requests for [[confirmation]] to see if I [[understood]] the lesson correctly. We [[worship]] not just in [[solitude]], but in our [[communion]] and truck with our fellows every day?

A: More so.

A: More so.

Q: More so. So, doing Father's will in relation to our brothers and sisters is a form of worship.

Q: More so. So, [[doing Father's will]] in relation to our [[brothers and sisters]] is a form of [[worship]].

 

A: That is absolutely correct. In [[fact]], it is the main form of [[worship]].

A: That is absolutely correct. In fact, it is the main form of worship.

Q: And as far as markers are concerned, those times when we feel most [[connected]], (S2) and (S3)'s questions prompted this, but I've been wondering myself, too. Interesting, we're all [[wondering]] the same thing. We've all felt it. We've known that we were in loving [[communion]] with [[the Father]]. It's unmistakable. It's completely [[reciprocal]]. And, most of the time we only feel that when we're in [[solitary]] [[communion]], [[worship]]. But now and then it seems we feel it when we're in everyday life, just regular [[activity]], and we've made a good [[choice]], and we've been able to do a good thing not just for someone else but to tell ourselves, or to reinforce better [[behavior]], God's will in our own [[actions]]. Am I right? Are those markers? Are those little guideposts that say "Yes, this is the direction, follow this?"

Q: And as far as markers are concerned, those times when we feel most connected, (S2) and (S3)'s questions prompted this, but I've been wondering myself, too. Interesting, we're all wondering the same thing. We've all felt it. We've known that we were in loving communion with the Father. It's unmistakable. It's completely reciprocal. And, most of the time we only feel that when we're in solitary communion, worship. But now and then it seems we feel it when we're in everyday life, just regular activity, and we've made a good choice, and we've been able to do a good thing not just for someone else but to tell ourselves, or to reinforce better behavior, God's will in our own actions. Am I right? Are those markers? Are those little guideposts that say "Yes, this is the direction, follow this?"

A: Yes, and to elaborate on that, the sense of being correct and being in [[communion]] that you [[experience]] in [[solitude]] is actually the glowing [[reflection]] of correct [[behavior]] when you are [[engaged]] in [[activity]]. However, your blunted [[awareness]] while you are active is mostly due to the fact that you have a [[brain]] and [[body]] of [[animal]] origin and that talking [[voice]] in your [[brain]] is babbling too loudly for you to be able to hear, in a sense, the rightness, the spiritual [[perception]], that you get when you are in a [[quiet]] mode. Does that make sense to you?

A: Yes, and to elaborate on that, the sense of being correct and being in communion that you experience in solitude is actually the glowing reflection of correct behavior when you are engaged in activity. However, your blunted awareness while you are active is mostly due to the fact that you have a brain and body of animal origin and that talking voice in your brain is babbling too loudly for you to be able to hear, in a sense, the rightness, the spiritual perception, that you get when you are in a quiet mode. Does that make sense to you?

S: It does. R. If your [[actions]] while engaged with others were incorrect, then during your periods of [[solitude]] you most likely would [[experience]] either discomfort, [[pain]], or a neutral [[feeling]], rather than a sense of well being and [[goodness]], such as you [[express]]. The [[evil]] man cannot stand his own company.  

S: It does. R. If your actions while engaged with others were incorrect, then during your periods of solitude you most likely would experience either discomfort, pain, or a neutral feeling, rather than a sense of well being and goodness, such as you express. The evil man cannot stand his own company. Q. So, there necessarily has to be a cleansing period, I would guess.

Q. So, there necessarily has to be a cleansing period, I would guess.

A: Well, it is certainly a useful reinforcement of your faith to have periods of solitude during which you can quiet the mind and perceive your own spiritual level. It is not absolutely necessarily, in the strictest sense, but there are very, very few humans on Urantia who have been able to dispense with this device as an adjunct to the spiritual journey. So, the answer to your question is yes.

A: Well, it is certainly a useful reinforcement of your [[faith]] to have periods of [[solitude]] during which you can [[quiet]] the mind and [[perceive]] your own spiritual level. It is not absolutely necessarily, in the strictest sense, but there are very, very few humans on [[Urantia]] who have been able to dispense with this device as an adjunct to the spiritual [[journey]]. So, the answer to your question is yes.

Q: When you say worshipful activities I presume you mean service, because one can have activities which are based on error which would not be worshipful. I would think that service would be equivalent to worship or maybe even better. When I relate to others, if I try to relate to the God within them, their Thought Adjuster, I think in that case I would be approaching worship because I would be serving them. I can't say, for instance, if service is better than worship or worship is better than service because sometimes service will make me worship better and sometimes worship will make me serve better. But worship seems to me like it's more of a one on one situation where I can talk directly to the Father within me whereas when I'm serving there is a third party involved. Is that correct?

Q: When you say [[worshipful]] activities I presume you mean [[service]], because one can have activities which are based on [[error]] which would not be [[worshipful]]. I would think that service would be equivalent to [[worship]] or maybe even better. When I relate to others, if I try to relate to the [[God within]] them, their Thought Adjuster, I think in that case I would be approaching [[worship]] because I would be serving them. I can't say, for instance, if [[service]] is better than [[worship]] or worship is better than service because sometimes service will make me worship better and sometimes worship will make me serve better. But worship seems to me like it's more of a one on one situation where I can talk directly to [[the Father]] within me whereas when I'm serving there is a third party involved. Is that correct?

A: There is no difference between worship and service, (S).

A: There is no [[difference]] between [[worship]] and [[service]], (S).

S: The Urantia book says there is.

S: The [[Urantia book]] says there is.

A: Well, worship in the sense of doing the will of the Father is service. As far as a third party being involved, when you interact in a social way with another being, in a loving and serving way, you extend the connection between yourself and God to that third party. Yes, that is somewhat different from a private session with the Father, but it is only a difference in degree. If one were to spend one's life in solitude reading spiritual materials and attempting through the Thought Adjuster to contact the Father, the spiritual life would be incomplete and unfulfilled because the connection to other beings is a vital part of a proper worship existence. Much confusion about worship arises from ancient times in the history of man on Urantia when superstitions and fear lead to the enactment of ritual behaviors designed to appease the mysterious forces that were thought to be responsible for good luck, good weather, good health and general well being. This idea has existed to the present day in the persistent belief that worship can only be undertaken in solitude or even in a particular setting, such as a church, temple, mosque, and even in particular position, such as the kneeling position, or the prostrate position. It is unfortunate that this pigeon holing of the notion of worship has occurred, but my personal understanding of worship is that it encompasses all activities in which one extends one's link to the Father through the Thought Adjuster which has been achieved through conscious effort and freewill decision to another being or other beings in an active fashion. Does that answer your question?

A: Well, [[worship]] in the sense of [[doing the will of the Father]] is [[service]]. As far as a third party being involved, when you [[interact]] in a social way with another being, in a loving and serving way, you extend the [[connection]] between yourself and [[God]] to that third party. Yes, that is somewhat [[different]] from a [[private]] session with [[the Father]], but it is only a difference in [[degree]]. If one were to spend one's life in [[solitude]] [[reading]] spiritual materials and attempting through the [[Thought Adjuster]] to contact [[the Father]], the spiritual life would be incomplete and unfulfilled because the [[connection]] to other beings is a vital part of a proper [[worship]] [[existence]]. Much [[confusion]] about worship arises from [[ancient]] times in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=UB#Part_III._The_History_of_Urantia history of man on Urantia] when [[superstitions]] and fear lead to the enactment of [[ritual]] behaviors designed to appease the [[mysterious]] forces that were [[thought]] to be responsible for good [[luck]], good [[weather]], good [[health]] and general well being. This [[idea]] has existed to the present day in the [[persistent]] [[belief]] that worship can only be undertaken in [[solitude]] or even in a particular setting, such as a [[church]], [[temple]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosque mosque], and even in particular position, such as the kneeling position, or the [[prostrate]] position. It is unfortunate that this pigeon holing of the notion of [[worship]] has occurred, but my personal [[understanding]] of worship is that it [[encompasses]] all activities in which one extends one's link to [[the Father]] through the [[Thought Adjuster]] which has been achieved through [[conscious]] [[effort]] and [[freewill]] decision to another being or other beings in an active fashion. Does that answer your question?

S: Yes, it does. I think a lot of this is based on a frame of reference whence we take the meaning of worship as we apply it to ourselves. I think (T/R), whose mind you are using or speaking from, has that ideational confusion between worship and service. I was never related to a church when I was a child so I don't relate worship to any specific temple or any church or any archaic concept of worship. I just think worship as I get is straight from the Urantia book and from Jesus' example. He did service with others and for others, but He also took time to go out on His own to be by Himself so that He could talk to the Father. I think it's very good for you to inform people that worship can be accomplished not just by oneself but also in doing service. I just wanted to bring the point up because I talk to some people who would just worship with others but not by themselves. In other words, they wouldn't go out by themselves to be alone with God. I think that both service and worship is necessary and not one at the sacrifice of the other.

S: Yes, it does. I think a lot of this is based on a [[frame of reference]] whence we take the [[meaning]] of [[worship]] as we apply it to ourselves. I think ([[T/R]]), whose [[mind]] you are using or speaking from, has that ideational [[confusion]] between [[worship]] and [[service]]. I was never related to a [[church]] when I was a child so I don't relate worship to any specific [[temple]] or any [[church]] or any archaic concept of worship. I just think worship as I get is straight from the [[Urantia book]] and from [[Jesus]]' example. He did [[service]] with others and for others, but He also took time to go out on His own to be by Himself so that He could talk to [[the Father]]. I think it's very [[good]] for you to inform people that [[worship]] can be accomplished not just by oneself but also in doing [[service]]. I just wanted to bring the point up because I talk to some people who would just worship with others but not by themselves. In other [[words]], they wouldn't go out by themselves to be [[alone]] with [[God]]. I think that both service and [[worship]] is [[necessary]] and not one at the [[sacrifice]] of the other.

R: If you wish to consider them as separate activities, that is your choice. The life of Michael, which is the example lovingly provided by Father as the model for ideal human existence on Urantia, was one of unending service and was the ideal for human endeavor on Urantia. Never once did Michael cease to worship Father.

R: If you wish to consider them as [[separate]] [[activities]], that is your [[choice]]. The life of [[Michael]], which is the example lovingly provided by Father as the [[model]] for [[ideal]] human [[existence]] on Urantia, was one of unending [[service]] and was the ideal for human endeavor on [[Urantia]]. Never once did [[Michael]] cease to worship Father.

S: I have no qualms about that. It's just a matter of semantics. We tend to use the word worship, I do anyway, to distinguish it from service, and that when one talks directly to the Father it's not a matter of action. Service - to me - is action, whereas worship is being with the Father. In other words, it's the difference between the first person and the third person. Service is action, the third person, having to do with Infinite Spirit, whereas to me worship is the first person, being with the Father. It's an existential kind of thing. That's how I differentiate the two, and I think there is a definite difference.

S: I have no qualms about that. It's just a matter of [[semantics]]. We tend to use the word [[worship]], I do anyway, to distinguish it from [[service]], and that when one talks directly to [[the Father]] it's not a matter of [[action]]. Service - to me - is [[action]], whereas [[worship]] is being with [[the Father]]. In other [[words]], it's the difference between the first person and the third person. Service is [[action]], the third person, having to do with [[Infinite Spirit]], whereas to me [[worship]] is the first person, being with [[the Father]]. It's an [[existential]] kind of thing. That's how I [[differentiate]] the [[two]], and I think there is a definite difference.

R: Was Michael not with Father when He served?

R: Was [[Michael]] not with Father when He served?

S: Yes, but I'm just saying when He served there was an act. I mean, there is a difference between action and being. When He served, He acted. I think when He worshiped He was with the Father, in other words, just being, existing with the Father.

S: Yes, but I'm just saying when He served there was an [[act]]. I mean, there is a [[difference]] between [[action]] and [[being]]. When He served, He acted. I think when He [[worshiped]] He was with the Father, in other words, just being, existing with the Father.

S2: May I interject here?

S2: May I interject here?

R: Certainly.

R: Certainly.

S2: I have located a page in the Urantia book in a paper on the life of Jesus, on page 1616, teachings about career and worship. It says at the evening conferences on Mt Gerazim Jesus taught many great truths and in particular He laid emphasis on the following: He said that worship, contemplation of the spiritual, must alternate with service, contact with material reality. And it goes on to say that work should alternate with play. Religion should be balanced by humor. Jumping a few lines again to say, another distinction, worship is the technique of looking to the One for the inspiration of service to the many. So that sentence right there, to me, points out the interrelatedness of worship and service. They're separate in terms of defining them for our human minds, but they're absolutely connected things.

S2: I have located a page in the [[Urantia book]] in a paper on [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=UB#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus the life of Jesus], on [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=143:7_Teachings_About_Prayer_and_Worship page 1616], teachings about [[career]] and [[worship]]. It says at the evening conferences on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Gerizim Mt Gerizim] Jesus taught many great [[truths]] and in particular He laid [[emphasis]] on the following: He said that [[worship]], [[contemplation]] of the [[spiritual]], must alternate with [[service]], contact with [[material]] [[reality]]. And it goes on to say that work should alternate with [[play]]. Religion should be [[balanced]] by [[humor]]. Jumping a few lines again to say, another [[distinction]], worship is the [[technique]] of looking to the One for the [[inspiration]] of [[service]] to the many. So that sentence right there, to me, points out the [[interrelatedness]] of [[worship]] and [[service]]. They're [[separate]] in terms of defining them for our human minds, but they're absolutely [[connected]] things.

S3: They're made of the same stuff, but they're expressed differently.

S3: They're made of the same stuff, but they're [[expressed]] differently.

S: Yes, that's what I wanted to say.

S: Yes, that's what I wanted to say.

S2: So I think actually we're probably all in agreement here.

S2: So I think actually we're probably all in [[agreement]] here.

S3: Yes, one can worship through service, but not all worship is service. I'm sure that Rayson was correct when he said that you can worship through service.

S3: Yes, one can [[worship]] through [[service]], but not all worship is service. I'm sure that Rayson was correct when he said that you can worship through service.

S: I agree with that. I have no difference of opinion about that.

S: I [[agree]] with that. I have no [[difference]] of [[opinion]] about that.

Q: If we practice the art of living, isn't that just walking worship?

Q: If we [[practice]] the [[art of living]], isn't that just walking [[worship]]?

A: That is the point that I was attempting to make through the lesson.

A: That is the point that I was attempting to make through the lesson.

S: I like that very much. I will never forget that word, the art of living. You're right, living is an art. Worship, I feel, flows through all of that whether it's just seeing again a heron rise out of the creek bed, 200 or sitting on the ocean thanking the Lord for this incredible beauty, or seeing a light in somebody's eyes because you've extended some help. It's all points of worship, ultimately, yes?

S: I like that very much. I will never forget that [[word]], the [[art of living]]. You're right, living is an art. [[Worship]], I feel, [[flows]] through all of that whether it's just seeing again a heron rise out of the creek bed, 200 or sitting on the [[ocean]] thanking the Lord for this incredible [[beauty]], or seeing a [[light]] in somebody's eyes because you've extended some help. It's all points of [[worship]], ultimately, yes?

R: That is true.

R: That is true.

S: This line about worship being the technique of looking to the one for the inspiration of service to the many makes me think about how they're interrelated, as you're doing service. I know for me I'm constantly having to check back in with the Father. Is this what I should be doing? So there's worship taking place at the same time.

S: This line about [[worship]] being the [[technique]] of looking to the one for the [[inspiration]] of service to the many makes me [[think]] about how they're [[interrelated]], as you're doing [[service]]. I know for me I'm constantly having to check back in with [[the Father]]. Is this what I should be doing? So there's worship taking place at the same time.

R: That is true.

R: That is true.

S: This says our thoughts precede our actions. Worship precedes the service, but it's happening milliseconds apart. (

S: This says our thoughts precede our [[actions]]. [[Worship]] precedes the [[service]], but it's happening milliseconds apart. (

S2: It's commingled.) It's commingled, thank you.

S2: It's commingled.) It's commingled, thank you.

R: Exactly, that has been the point of the lesson.

R: Exactly, that has been the [[point]] of the lesson.

 

S: We finally got it. Thank you, Rayson. (08/28/93) See also WORK ex rel Worship (11/21/93) See also WORK ex rel Worship and Service (10/08/93)

*[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1993-01-01-Rayson_%26_Friends,_Vol._2,_Part_4#Work.2C_Worship.2C_Service WORK ex rel Worship and Service] (10/08/93)

===PRAYERS===

===='''''[[Prayer]]'''''====

Many meetings were begun by Rayson reciting the following prayer:

R: The light of God surrounds us, the love of God enfolds us, the power of God protects us, the presence of God watches over us, wherever we are, God is. On February 14th, 1993, the T/R for Rayson opened the meeting with the following [[prayer]]:

R: THE LIGHT OF GOD SURROUNDS US THE LOVE OF GOD ENFOLDS US THE POWER OF GOD PROTECTS US THE PRESENCE OF GOD WATCHES OVER US WHEREVER WE ARE, GOD IS On February 14th, 1993, the T/R for Rayson opened the meeting with the following prayer:

R: [[Universal Father]]. [[Eternal Son]], [[Infinite Spirit]], in our [[efforts]] to [[communicate]] with your servants, I request the [[guidance]] of your [[Thought Adjuster]] and the protection of the [[Spirit of Truth]], so that we may [[communicate]] if that is your will - with beings that are generally [[aligned]] with your will. We thank you for any [[messages]] and any [[insights]] that we may [[receive]]. Thank you. [This prayer was answered by a message from Prince [[Machiventa]] [[Melchizedek]].] On February 28. 3, after the lesson and before the [[question]] period Rayson verbalized the following prayer:

R: Universal Father. Eternal Son, Infinite Spirit, in our efforts to communicate with your servants, I request the guidance of your Thought Adjuster and the protection of the Spirit of Truth, so that we may communicate if that is your will - with beings that are generally aligned with your will. We thank you for any messages and any insights that we may receive. Thank you. [This prayer was answered by a message from Prince Machiventa Melchizedek.] On February 28. 3, after the lesson and before the question period Rayson verbalized the following prayer:

R: Oh Divine Father, [[creator]] of [[infinite]] [[mysteries]], knower of [[eternity]], lover of all, your ways are many, and though we may not see your [[wisdom]], on [[faith]] we believe and live your [[goodness]]. We pray for [[recognition]] of your [[truth]], to live your [[goodness]], and to appreciate the [[beauty]] of all [[creation]]: natural, human, [[morontial]], [[spiritual]] perfected, [[divine]], even on to the creations not yet made. We pray to fulfil our [[part]] in your [[plan]]. and through our [[efforts]] to one day be [[blessed]] enough to sit and be in your very [[presence]] in heaven. May we be granted the gifts of [[wisdom]], [[courage]], and stronger [[faith]] as we travel the long road [[God-ward]]. The special session on May 12, 1993, closed with the following prayer

R: Oh Divine Father, creator of infinite mysteries, knower of eternity, lover of all, your ways are many, and though we may not see your wisdom, on faith we believe and live your goodness. We pray for recognition of your truth, to live your goodness, and to appreciate the beauty of all creation: natural, human, morontial, spiritual perfected, divine, even on to the creations not yet made. We pray to fulfil our part in your plan. and through our efforts to one day be blessed enough to sit and be in your very presence in heaven. May we be granted the gifts of wisdom, courage, and stronger faith as we travel the long road God-ward. The special session on May 12, 1993, closed with the following prayer

R: And now, brothers, we will give [[worship]] to [[the Father]], to the [[Mother Spirit]], and to [[Michael]], our [[Creator Son|Creator]]. We [[bless]] the [[breath]] we take knowing that it is divinely decreed. That we exist, and - if it be our [[freewill]] choice to exist eternally - then that is the will of the Father. We are [[thankful]] for this life in the [[flesh]] and of the spirit. We pray to grow more in [[understanding]] our role, and in carrying out the will of the Father in heaven. We pray to [[touch]] other [[beings]] with [[love]] and [[inspire]] them to seek God. [[Strengthen]] us in our resolve, and [[comfort]] us during our periods of (desolation?). As we stay centered on your [[love]], we will continue by [[faith]] in our (endeavors?), knowing we all contributed to the [[spiritual growth]] of (the [[Supreme]]?).  

R: And now, brothers, we will give worship to the Father, to the Mother Spirit, and to Michael, our Creator. We bless the breath we take knowing that it is divinely decreed. That we exist, and - if it be our freewill choice to exist eternally - then that is the will of the Father. We are thankful for this life in the flesh and of the spirit. We pray to grow more in understanding our role, and in carrying out the will of the Father in heaven. We pray to touch other beings with love and inspire them to seek God. Strengthen us in our resolve, and comfort us during our periods of (desolation?). As we stay centered on your love, we will continue by faith in our (endeavors?), knowing we all contributed to the spiritual growth of (the Supreme?). On May 22, 1993, Rayson opened the meeting by asking a student to offer a brief prayer. This is the prayer the student offered: Our gracious heavenly Father, we - your children praise you, we worship you. We thank you for Christ Michael, your son, our Father and our brother. We thank you for the Mother Spirit. Thank you for the Planetary Prince, the Vicegerent Planetary Prince, and the teaching mission. We ask that you be with all of the celestial beings and the ascendant mortals who are working with us, and that we may dedicate ourselves to their service. This we ask in Christ's name. Amen.

On May 22, 1993, Rayson opened the meeting by asking a [[student]] to offer a brief [[prayer]]. This is the prayer the student offered: Our [[gracious]] heavenly Father, we - your [[children]] [[praise]] you, we [[worship]] you. We thank you for Christ [[Michael]], your son, our Father and our brother. We thank you for the [[Mother Spirit]]. Thank you for the [[Planetary Prince]], the Vicegerent Planetary Prince, and the [[Teaching Mission]]. We ask that you be with all of the [[celestial]] beings and the [[ascendant mortals]] who are working with us, and that we may [[dedicate]] ourselves to their [[service]]. This we ask in [[Christ]]'s name. Amen.

On May 29, 1993, Rayson closed the session with the following prayer:

On May 29, 1993, Rayson closed the session with the following prayer:

R: First Source and Center, Heavenly Father, and Creator of all, we thank you for the desire to understand you and know you. We pray for the courage of convictions to reflect your goodness and truth and beauty into the world. We pray for clarity and wisdom to discern your will for us, knowing that even when it is unclear it can only be for the highest good. And on faith we accept your mercy and love and forgiveness, and look forward to our ultimate goal as finaliters. Please bless us all and let us be reflectors of your love.

R: [[First Source and Center]], [[Heavenly Father]], and [[Creator]] of all, we thank you for the [[desire]] to [[understand]] you and know you. We pray for the [[courage]] of convictions to [[reflect]] your [[goodness]] and [[truth]] and [[beauty]] into the world. We pray for [[clarity]] and [[wisdom]] to [[discern]] your will for us, knowing that even when it is unclear it can only be for the highest [[good]]. And on [[faith]] we [[accept]] your [[mercy]] and [[love]] and [[forgiveness]], and look forward to our [[ultimate]] goal as [[finaliters]]. Please [[bless]] us all and let us be [[reflectors]] of your [[love]].

On January 22, 1994, less than a week after the Northridge earthquake which damaged property of several students, Rayson asked a student to lead in a prayer of thanksgiving. This is the prayer:

On January 22, 1994, less than a week after the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northridge_earthquake Northridge earthquake] which damaged [[property]] of several students, Rayson asked a student to lead in a [[prayer]] of [[thanksgiving]]. This is the prayer:

R: Our Father, we want very much to thank you for our safe passage through perilous waters caused by the local earthquake. We thank you that we did not receive more damage. We pray for the strength of those who did receive damage to convert this disaster into good. We look at each disaster as an opportunity and thank you for it. This we do in Jesus' name. Amen.

R: [[Our Father]], we want very much to thank you for our safe passage through perilous [[waters]] caused by the local earthquake. We thank you that we did not [[receive]] more damage. We pray for the [[strength]] of those who did receive damage to convert this disaster into [[good]]. We look at each disaster as an [[opportunity]] and thank you for it. This we do in [[Jesus]]' name. Amen.

[[Category: The Teaching Mission: Dialogues]]

[[Category: The Teaching Mission: Dialogues]]

[[Category: Joan Levine]]

[[Category: Joan Levine]]

[[Category: Work]]

[[Category: Work]]

[[Category: Prayer]]

[[Category: Prayer]]

[[Category: Worship]]

[[Category: Worship]]

[[Category: 1993]]

[[Category: 1993]]