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: 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 [http://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?

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: 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 [http://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]], [http://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?

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: Certainly.

R: Certainly.

S2: I have located a page in the [[Urantia book]] in a paper on [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=UB#Part_IV._The_Life_and_Teachings_of_Jesus the life of Jesus], on [http://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 [http://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.

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: We finally got it. Thank you, Rayson. (08/28/93)  

S: We finally got it. Thank you, Rayson. (08/28/93)  

==See also==

:'''See also'''

*[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1993-01-01-Rayson_%26_Friends,_Vol._2,_Part_4#Work.2C_Worship WORK ex rel Worship] (11/21/93)  

*[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=1993-01-01-Rayson_%26_Friends,_Vol._2,_Part_4#Work.2C_Worship WORK ex rel Worship] (11/21/93)  

*[http://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)

*[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]]

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[[Category: Work]]

[[Category: Prayer]]

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[[Category: Worship]]

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[[Category: 1993]]

[[Category: 1993]]