Changes

===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]" [https://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 [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]], [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 [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 [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.

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 [http://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:

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.