KA2024 Paper Three (Please excuse slightly erratic formatting - as it didn't copy and paste correctly.
Living for all mankind=JOY
SUPPORTING THE LEAVEN OF TRUTH AT WORK IN HUMANITY’S DEVELOPMENT FROM SENSE TO SOUL
We want to be awake, alert, and responsive to one another and to mankind – to see, support, and guide its growth Spiritward. Effective prayer heals and adds to the leaven of world thought, making room for more spiritual growth and progress.. “This leaven of Truth is ever at work”[1]
MBE writes in My. that we are “living in an age of Love's divine adventure to be All-in-all.”[2] We'll be reviewing the evidence of the LEAVEN at work: Be aware, be alert! TO serve God and all humanity rightly, we need to know the signs of the times and recognize what the people need.
a) “ It will never do to be behind the times in things most essential, which proceed from the standard of right that regulates human destiny.......”.[3]
b) There are those “ Millions of unprejudiced minds — simple seekers for Truth, weary wanderers, athirst in the desert — are waiting and watching for rest and drink. Give them a cup of cold water in Christ’s name, and never fear the consequences.”(Science and Health, p. 570:14–18)
ii. So people are looking – millions of people of “Unprejudiced minds” and they are in your family, your neighborhood and online! And people are finding.
“This age is reaching out towards the perfect Principle of things; is pushing towards perfection in art, invention, and manufacture.” (Misc, p. 232:6–8)
The LEAVEN AT WORK
So where is thought today? And why is it important to know these things?
It fulfills our duty to God, our Leader, and to all mankind.
It fulfills our duty to love one another as ourselves.
Our Leader famously kept scrapbooks, lovingly cutting clippings reporting on all areas of life—religions, discoveries, fashion, politics—and even clipping a number of humorous stories and jokes! Like a devoted mother recording every step of progress for her children, these scrapbooks are a tender example of the love that she had for all of humanity,
This section is a little like those scrapbooks—it keeps an eye on how the world is shifting thought “from sense to Soul” and enables us to watch lovingly over all humanity.
These words ring true today:
“In the material world, thought has brought to light with great rapidity many useful wonders. With like activity have thought’s swift pinions been rising towards the realm of the real, to the spiritual cause of those lower things which give impulse to inquiry. Belief in a material basis, from which may be deduced all rationality, is slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis, looking away from matter to Mind as the cause of every effect. Materialistic hypotheses challenge metaphysics to meet in final combat. In this revolutionary period, like the shepherd-boy with his sling, woman goes forth to battle with Goliath.” (Science and Health, p. 268:1)
So we are taking note! And we are supporting mankind’s progress toward a stronger, more metaphysical basis.
(Note—this is a heavily researched paper. A full reference list is available on request for anyone interested in it. Just see me at the end of the day.)
To demonstrate the growing trend of individuals seeking spiritual answers, we can draw from various medical, theological, scientific, and social studies sources. Each area of Science, Theology, and Medicine plus the direction of religious movements globally - points to the asking of profound questions. We can be encouraged that indeed “the time for thinkers has come.
Here are some trends of the leaven at work globally:
Global Trends on Christianity
Medical Sources:
The American Psychological Association (APA) has noted an increase in the use of mindfulness-based therapies, which often have spiritual components, to treat a range of mental health conditions (Mindful)
From Medscape:https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/970619?form=fpf 2022
65.2% of physicians report that they believe in God; 51.2% report themselves as religious and 24.8% spiritual; and 83% of patients actually want physicians to ask about their spiritual beliefs in at least some circumstances, and it begs the question as to why spiritual health is not treated as an essential component to a person's whole health.
Harvard University’s INITIATIVE ON HEALTH, SPIRITUALITY AND RELIGION
An Interfaculty Initiative This is a cross-institutional initiative that brings together faculty from across Harvard to study and implement ways to better integrate religion and spirituality into the practice of medicine and public health. The initiative began through a synergistic, research-focused relationship of a trio of medical, epidemiological*, & theological faculty at Harvard University. ….. Advancement of spirituality research is energized by the practical concern that new discoveries from spiritual and religious resources will yield significant new gains in alleviating illness and promoting human flourishing. SLIDE 14 (*epidemiological=the understanding and control of disease)
It is interesting to note how the trajectory of medical care in the US is incorporating more understanding of the practicality and relevance of spiritual care. In this way, we can turn to the role of the Christian Science nurse which may be of great interest if this evolution of thought in the medical field continues this way! Note that the development of Christian Science nurses was capped with the Christian Science nurse By-law in 1908. The birth of Modern Medicine is largely seen in the Flexnor Report published in 1910.
So what does this tell us? Christian Science nursing and its whole modus operandi were established BEFORE modern medicine. Christian Science nursing is a wholly original concept, not a derivative of Western medicine—it has nothing that came from modern medicine.
How one psychologist opens a door for patients’ spiritual concernsStephen HumphriesChief Culture Writer @steve_humphries
Since 2017, more than 5,000 patients have enrolled in SPIRIT (Spiritual Psychotherapy for Inpatient, Residential, and Intensive Treatment). Clinical trials found that 90% of patients said the sessions had helped them. At a time when church attendance is falling and many Americans describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious,” SPIRIT caters to patients of all backgrounds. SPIRIT’s resources range from readings from various faiths to handouts about prayer and forgiveness.
For people who have found that religious communities aren't meeting their needs, “it speaks to an innate spiritual need,” says Dr. Rosmarin, who is also an associate professor at Harvard Medical School. “We are working at this point on how to get SPIRIT out to other hospitals and other areas. That’s the next challenge in front of me.”
Theological Sources:
6. New views on the doctrine of atonement: The doctrine of atonement in Christianity is undergoing significant changes due to evolving theological perspectives, cultural influences, and modern interpretations. Here are some of the major shifts:
Rethinking (Penal Substitutionary) AtonementContemporary Shift: Criticism and Alternatives: Many theologians and Christians criticize this view of Christ dying for our sins as presenting a punitive image of God. Alternatives like Christus Victor (Christ's victory over sin and death) and Moral Influence Theory (Christ's life and death as an example of divine love) are gaining popularity . Emphasis on Divine Love: There is a growing emphasis on God's love and mercy over wrath and justice. This perspective highlights the relational aspect of atonement, where reconciliation and restoration are central themes.
What are the leading trends happening in scientific discovery over the last century world wide?
Over the last century, scientific discovery has undergone dramatic advancements Here are some of the leading trends:
1. Quantum Mechanics and Wave-Particle Duality and advances in Particle Physics - all to better understand the nature of matter Einstein's famous assertion, "There is no matter," alludes to the idea that matter, at its most fundamental level, is composed of energy and that what we perceive as solid objects are actually made up of vibrating energy fields. This concept aligns with modern physics, particularly quantum mechanics and theories of the nature of the universe.
2. Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering —Revolutionizing Medicine and Agriculture:
3. Information Technology and Computing -
These trends reflect years of transformative scientific discovery driven by technological advances, interdisciplinary research, and global collaboration. Each field continues to evolve moving from a more limited material basis to one more metaphysical -, promising further breakthroughs that will shape our understanding of the universe and improve human life.
“Belief in a material basis, from which may be deduced all rationality, is slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis, looking away from matter to Mind as the cause of every effect.” (Science and Health, p. 268:1–9)
And we are here, ready and willing, to cheer on, support, and continue to heal as humanity continues to grow from sense to Soul; as it is “ slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis….”
To Live for all mankind
"I know that my mission is for all the earth, not alone for my dear devoted followers in Christian Science. ... All my work, all my efforts, all my prayers and tears are for humanity, and the spread of peace and love among mankind" (Mary Baker Eddy, in a 1907 interview with The New York American).
How do we live for all mankind?
Think of it. Because we love one another, we live. We are all interconnected - an expression of the ONE compound idea - man - including all right ideas. We are each an individualized consciousness - a right idea - demonstrating the infinite manifestation of God reflected by the one compound idea, man.
To fully understand even the first line of the Lord's Prayer and its spiritual interpretation OUR FATHER-MOTHER GOD sets the groundwork for us to live for all mankind. We are all connected. We belong to God and to one another
From the infinitesimal to infinity – and from the individual to the global, every Truth we give witness to, every Principle of Love we exercise, every good motive and act has behind it Life and immortality and infinite Truth. No prayer is small. No prayer is ever wasted.
“But what of ourselves, and our times and obligations? Are we duly aware of our own great opportunities and responsibilities? Are we prepared to meet and improve them, to act up to the acme of divine energy wherewith we are armored?....Never was there a more solemn and imperious call than God makes to us all, right here, for fervent devotion and an absolute consecration to the greatest and holiest of all causes. The hour is come.” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, pp. 176:25–4 (to 2nd .))
So to live for all mankind -
Let’s take up the work for the world - fulfilling our duty to God, to our Leader, and to all mankind and take a look at several things that are largely shaping the human condition today and consider how human needs are already being met. Here are some prayerful ideas given to treat some of these conditions:
How to pray about the polarization and chaos of politics. This was a question from one of you ( Joy). Many of us are led to pray in certain ways: for government, for peace, for universal brotherhood and sisterhood. But let’s consider praying with a NO and YES orientation – saying NO to the hatred and division and YES to the unity and innocence of all God’s children.
NO to divisiveness
Hatred is a plague-spot that kills.
There is no erroneous influence luring humanity to give voice to rage, resentment, grievance, and hatred.
“The pent-up elements of mortal mind need no terrible detonation to free them. Envy, rivalry, hate need no temporary indulgence that they be destroyed through suffering; they should be stifled from lack of air and freedom.” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 356:5)
The falsehood that tempts others into mockery and acts of farce and shamelessness cannot be animated by God’s creation and fall by their own lack of substance.
.
10 Psalms 37:35, 36 35I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. 36 Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
YES to God’s creation
Dignity knows no denomination.
Honor knows no hatred.
Noble lives live on.
The nothingness of cruel evil is revealed—it has only hatred—the lack of Love. There is no fuel here. The power and purity of Innocence—permanent, pervasive, and penetrating—expands in our consciousness. We now understand how Innocence is its own protection, widely proactive, killing lust and hypocrisy, and overcoming guilt and error.
Truth is always the victor.
“ This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.”(Isaiah 43:20 21)
We are all God’s chosen people, the willing people - willing to do good, willing to do what is right, willing to unite, willing to express their higher nature of health, wealth, and charity. The people cannot be manipulated, emotionally held hostage, tricked or deceived. This people is US God’s children, and we cannot be tempted to be swayed by lies or appetites for revenge, nor can they make channels for fear to express hatred.
God is constantly in communication with each of His creations. “The intercommunication is always from God to His idea man.” (Science and Health, p. 284:31–32)
Each one of us has an active spiritual sense—a conscious, constant capacity to understand God. We can support the active spiritual sense of each one of us - individually and collectively, knowing that the divine influence is ever-present in consciousness.
These people are cherished of God. God has created them to glorify Him - infinite and eternal as She is.
Daniel 10:19 O man (to 1st .)19 “O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong.”
“ The waters will be pacified, and Christ will command the wave. “(Science and Health, p. 570:18)
2 - Dealing with AI and innovation
AI is rapidly growing and starting to touch many parts of our lives, bringing “with great rapidity many useful wonders” ( See SH 268:1) and profound questions to the fore, including what intelligence is and what it means to think; what is consciousness and who is it that is thinking?.
AI includes an extensive database from open and public sources, including what is fact and fabrication as well as what is brilliant and biased. It can automate, innovate, and analyze all processes and determine solutions rapidly, but has no moral compass, transparency or ethics . If this tool is to safely develop its maximum potential for continuing good, it needs context, meaning, guidance, and insight from moral and spiritual reasoning, spiritual intuition, and receptivity to the infinite source of intelligence. And this comes from the exercise of our higher spiritual nature.
Christian Science teaches that God is the ultimate source of all intelligence. Our true nature reflects this divine intelligence, bringing order and healing into our lives. We bring to the development of groundbreaking inventions a morality that moves thought to higher achievement and effectiveness while wisely safeguarding innovations to protect and improve humanity's conditions. Spiritually endowed, we have an infinite capacity to conceive, direct, and control invention with a greater understanding of a universal, original, and unifying spirituality that inspires and advances all meaningful progress.
3 - Dealing with Racism
Eradicating racism is to decapitate evil.
"Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or that becomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims, but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered by Science." (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 284:24).
But how do we deal with centuries of hatred that now seem systematically steeped in our institutions and our culture? The healing of evil or hatred starts with waking up to the omnipotence and supremacy of God's love and protection. When one's thoughts of God's power and purity are so sure, the dynamic of love and fear changes, as love destroys fear.
Love swallows up what is fearful and evil. “Evil is not supreme; good is not helpless.”(Science and Health, p. 207:10–13) Evil can claim no power at any time in history; evil’s roots throughout history are uprooted, exposed, and deleted, leaving it with no heritage and no individuality to claim. Truth sweeps it all away.
We can discern the anger that arises from injustice and comes from broken hearts feeling hopelessness and exhaustion. The wickedness of evil will end - its nature is to self-destruct. When we don’t feed it or fear it, it implodes.
“Love never fails” was written thousands of years ago, given to us in I Corinthians 13: 8 and is eternally persistent in its relevance today. The healing power of Love is explained in Christian Science. Eddy once counseled her students about the healing work of Christian Science "Never become discouraged, dear ones, this work is not humdrum, it is growth. It is repeating and defeating, repeating and defeating, repeating, and defeating (We Knew Mary Baker Eddy, Expanded edition. volume 1, p. 263).
Human-made systems of racism’s hatred, dominance, and inequality will be replaced by the self-sustaining spiritual systems of divine Mind “around which circle harmoniously all things.” (See Science and Health, p. 310:14). As we give our consent to divine Love and understand more clearly spiritual causation, we can expect to see Love’s influence grow and human dignity, compassion, and equality take center stage. And because we know that the roots of these qualities are spiritual, eternal, and of God, we see that these cannot be sidelined or co-opted by the self-defeating motives of hatred, greed, and power. The systems of hatred will break down, but the systems of Mind remain, sustaining and healing all humanity.
But what if these systems have lasted for decades, centuries even? “The centuries break, the earth-bound wake! God’s glorified” sings Mrs Eddy’s hymn “Satisfied”. And what is a day, decade or centuries compared to what eternity, Life itself, holds over us “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past,.”(Psalms 90:4).
Evil has a beginning and end - it is the product of time. Thus it is not sustainable nor capable to continue on its own.
“Eternity, not time, expresses the thought of Life, and time is no part of eternity. One ceases in proportion as the other is recognized. Time is finite; eternity is forever infinite.”
(Science and Health, pp. 468:28–1)
Oneness is the universal and eternal Truth of our spiritual unity with God and all of humanity: “Have we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us?” We can return to this again and again and again until the human yields to this divine Truth and the hatred and ignorance expressed as racism is defused and dissolved.
4-Dealing with Climate Change
“All of nature teaches of God’s great love for man,” writes Mary Baker Eddy. Nature reflects its Creator: resilient, abundant, balanced, and fruitful. As God's children, we mirror this intelligence and beauty. God is known “as the central Life and intelligence around which circle harmoniously all things in the systems of Mind” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 310:15).
Seen spiritually, the earth is our universal holy land which belongs to divine Mind and Her creation. Misinterpreting nature as something to exploit leads to imbalance and long-term harm.
Addressing climate change requires a shift in thought from material misinterpretations and misuse to spiritual understanding. “The elements and functions of the physical body and of the physical world will change as the mortal mind changes its beliefs” (Science and Health). Then, we will find ourselves capable of exercising God-given dominion over the fish of the sea and ... and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
(Genesis 1:26 3rd and)
Robin Kimmerer, a Potawatomi botanist and author of "Braiding Sweetgrass," writes of the need to change from the material view of earth: “The market economy story has spread like wildfire... But it is just a story we have told ourselves and we are free to tell another, to reclaim the old one.” We have the authority to change our story by changing our thoughts - thus changing our actions.
"The physical universe expresses the conscious and unconscious thoughts of mortals” (Science and Health, p. 484:13-14).
Today's climate extremes reflect conflicting and fearful thoughts. But by persistently opposing these with the truths of Christian Science, we start from the reality of God's creation—balanced, resilient, and intelligent. Truth acts as an alterative, neutralizing the toxicity of conflicting opinions, beliefs and rumors and restoring all to their rightful being as harmonious, whole, sustainable, and pure. Truth and Love antidote the mental miasma - defined as an unwholesome or befogging atmosphere, influence, etc. and thus invigorate and sustain existence. (See SH 274: 1-3)
A consciousness so filled with Truth – out of which comes truthful actions, compassionate considerations, and intelligent solutions that lead to a recognition of the dignity and majesty of all creation. A consciousness so filled with Truth sees the spiritual value of the earth, and learns from nature all of God’s love for man.
5- the happiness and joy revolution
“Happiness (like joy) is spiritual, born of Truth and Love. It is unselfish; therefore it cannot exist alone, but requires all mankind to share it. Human affection is not poured forth vainly, even though it meet no return. Love enriches the nature, enlarging, purifying, and elevating it. (Science and Health, p. 57:18–24)
Whose side are you on?
We might as well be playing for the wrong side if we're spending more time telling ourselves and others the deplorable facts of our case than we are striving to understand spiritual truth. ( The “oh ain’t it a shame!” conversations)
Mary Baker Eddy writes: "If you wish to be happy, argue with yourself on the side of happiness; take the side you wish to carry, and be careful not to talk on both sides, or to argue stronger for sorrow than for joy. You are the attorney for the case, and will win or lose according to your plea."1
That much is clear. We learn from experience that even a little understanding of the truth that man is spiritual and constantly held by God in wholeness, joy, and health does bring healing of human discords. So we realize we do much better to argue for that spiritual reality than for the pressing details of our own situation as they may appear to be.
From Primary Class:
C. Let's look to Jesus ( the author and finisher of our faith) to understand Joy and its relation to triumph, victory and dominion
i. Joy and resurrection are related. in Hebrews 12: 2-3 This is from the New Century Version of the Bible:
a) 2 Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect. He suffered death on the cross. But he accepted the shame as if it were nothing because of the joy that God put before him. And now he is sitting at the right side of God’s throne. [8]
ii. Because of the joy set before him – suffered the cross, accepted the shame …..as if it were nothing??? What was it about this joy? What did he know?
a) I found this definition of joy quite thought- provoking – joy - the understanding of the ultimate triumph of life. Then I reasoned:
c) Jesus showed us that if we follow his teachings, continue in his love, and love one another, there is triumph - there is joy. And joy - that savvy indicator of triumphant life - is our forever song.
____________________
SUMMARY STATEMENT
How can we best LIVE FOR ALL MANKIND?
Obeying, loving, and reflecting the ONE MIND —Our Father-Mother God all harmonious with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. A take-the-lid-off kind of love. Love one another and yourselves with that same vigor.
Love causes us to grow. It never leaves us where it found us. Love is the force behind all human progress. Therefore, let us love God by loving one another thus living for all mankind and bring with that love an everlasting JOY.
Living for all mankind=JOY
SUPPORTING THE LEAVEN OF TRUTH AT WORK IN HUMANITY’S DEVELOPMENT FROM SENSE TO SOUL
- Mis. 166:22-28 Like the leaven that a certain woman hid in three measures of meal, the Science of God and the spiritual idea, named in this century Christian Science, is leavening the lump of human thought until the whole shall be leavened and all materialism disappear. This action of the divine energy, even if not acknowledged, has come to be seen as diffusing richest blessings.
- Message to TMC ’02 2:14-18 ….so Christian Science, the little leaven hid in three measures of meal, — ethics, medicine, and religion, — is rapidly fermenting, and enlightening the world with the glory of untrammeled truth.
- SH 449:2 A little leaven causes the whole mass to ferment. A grain of Christian Science does wonders for mortals, so omnipotent is Truth, but more of Christian Science must be gained in order to continue in well doing.
- SH 158:24-30 Evidences of progress and of spiritualization greet us on every hand.
- Peo. 1:2-7 EVERY step of progress is a step more spiritual.
- Miscellany pp. 114:23–3 –Is it too much to say that this book (Science and Health) is leavening the whole lump of human thought? You can trace its teachings in each step of mental and spiritual progress, from pulpit and press, in religion and ethics, and find these progressive steps either written or indicated in the book. It has mounted thought on the swift and mighty chariot of divine Love, which to-day is circling the whole world. ()
We want to be awake, alert, and responsive to one another and to mankind – to see, support, and guide its growth Spiritward. Effective prayer heals and adds to the leaven of world thought, making room for more spiritual growth and progress.. “This leaven of Truth is ever at work”[1]
MBE writes in My. that we are “living in an age of Love's divine adventure to be All-in-all.”[2] We'll be reviewing the evidence of the LEAVEN at work: Be aware, be alert! TO serve God and all humanity rightly, we need to know the signs of the times and recognize what the people need.
a) “ It will never do to be behind the times in things most essential, which proceed from the standard of right that regulates human destiny.......”.[3]
b) There are those “ Millions of unprejudiced minds — simple seekers for Truth, weary wanderers, athirst in the desert — are waiting and watching for rest and drink. Give them a cup of cold water in Christ’s name, and never fear the consequences.”(Science and Health, p. 570:14–18)
ii. So people are looking – millions of people of “Unprejudiced minds” and they are in your family, your neighborhood and online! And people are finding.
“This age is reaching out towards the perfect Principle of things; is pushing towards perfection in art, invention, and manufacture.” (Misc, p. 232:6–8)
The LEAVEN AT WORK
So where is thought today? And why is it important to know these things?
It fulfills our duty to God, our Leader, and to all mankind.
It fulfills our duty to love one another as ourselves.
Our Leader famously kept scrapbooks, lovingly cutting clippings reporting on all areas of life—religions, discoveries, fashion, politics—and even clipping a number of humorous stories and jokes! Like a devoted mother recording every step of progress for her children, these scrapbooks are a tender example of the love that she had for all of humanity,
This section is a little like those scrapbooks—it keeps an eye on how the world is shifting thought “from sense to Soul” and enables us to watch lovingly over all humanity.
These words ring true today:
“In the material world, thought has brought to light with great rapidity many useful wonders. With like activity have thought’s swift pinions been rising towards the realm of the real, to the spiritual cause of those lower things which give impulse to inquiry. Belief in a material basis, from which may be deduced all rationality, is slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis, looking away from matter to Mind as the cause of every effect. Materialistic hypotheses challenge metaphysics to meet in final combat. In this revolutionary period, like the shepherd-boy with his sling, woman goes forth to battle with Goliath.” (Science and Health, p. 268:1)
So we are taking note! And we are supporting mankind’s progress toward a stronger, more metaphysical basis.
(Note—this is a heavily researched paper. A full reference list is available on request for anyone interested in it. Just see me at the end of the day.)
To demonstrate the growing trend of individuals seeking spiritual answers, we can draw from various medical, theological, scientific, and social studies sources. Each area of Science, Theology, and Medicine plus the direction of religious movements globally - points to the asking of profound questions. We can be encouraged that indeed “the time for thinkers has come.
Here are some trends of the leaven at work globally:
Global Trends on Christianity
- Christianity is truly a global religion with significant Growth in the Global South:
- A comprehensive demographic study of more than 200 countries finds that there are 2.18 billion Christians of all ages around the world, representing nearly a third of the estimated 2010 global population of 6.9 billion. Christians are also geographically widespread – so far-flung, in fact, that no single continent or region can indisputably claim to be the center of global Christianity.
- A century ago, this was not the case. In 1910, about two-thirds of the world’s Christians lived in Europe, where the bulk of Christians had been for a millennium, according to historical estimates by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity.2 Today, only about a quarter of all Christians live in Europe (26%). A plurality – more than a third – now are in the Americas (37%). About one in every four Christians lives in sub-Saharan Africa (24%), and about one-in-eight is found in Asia and the Pacific (13%). ( See Pew Research https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2011/12/19/global-christianity-exec/)
- Christianity is rapidly growing in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia.
- Pentecostalism and Charismatic movements are particularly strong in these regions, often characterized by vibrant worship, belief in miracles, and a focus on personal experience with the Holy Spirit =.
- Persecution and Resilience:
- In many parts of the world, Christians face persecution and discrimination. Reports from organizations like Open Doors ( See https://www.opendoors.org/en-US/) highlight countries where Christians are marginalized or oppressed due to their faith. Despite this, many Christian communities demonstrate resilience and growth under challenging conditions.
- In many parts of the world, Christians face persecution and discrimination. Reports from organizations like Open Doors ( See https://www.opendoors.org/en-US/) highlight countries where Christians are marginalized or oppressed due to their faith. Despite this, many Christian communities demonstrate resilience and growth under challenging conditions.
Medical Sources:
- From Science and Health: " Drug systems are quitting their hold on matter and so letting in matter's higher stratum, mortal mind. Homœopathy, a step in advance of allopathy, is doing this. Matter is going out of medicine, and mortal mind, of a higher attenuation than the drug, is governing the pellet.”
The American Psychological Association (APA) has noted an increase in the use of mindfulness-based therapies, which often have spiritual components, to treat a range of mental health conditions (Mindful)
From Medscape:https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/970619?form=fpf 2022
65.2% of physicians report that they believe in God; 51.2% report themselves as religious and 24.8% spiritual; and 83% of patients actually want physicians to ask about their spiritual beliefs in at least some circumstances, and it begs the question as to why spiritual health is not treated as an essential component to a person's whole health.
Harvard University’s INITIATIVE ON HEALTH, SPIRITUALITY AND RELIGION
An Interfaculty Initiative This is a cross-institutional initiative that brings together faculty from across Harvard to study and implement ways to better integrate religion and spirituality into the practice of medicine and public health. The initiative began through a synergistic, research-focused relationship of a trio of medical, epidemiological*, & theological faculty at Harvard University. ….. Advancement of spirituality research is energized by the practical concern that new discoveries from spiritual and religious resources will yield significant new gains in alleviating illness and promoting human flourishing. SLIDE 14 (*epidemiological=the understanding and control of disease)
- Training healthcare providers in spiritual care is becoming increasingly common, reflecting the need for a more holistic approach to patient care. This is particularly relevant in fields like oncology and palliative care, where spiritual concerns are closely tied to end-of-life decisions. You can find more information in the book "Teaching and Learning About Spirituality in Healthcare Practice Settings" on SpringerLink (SpringerLink).
- The biopsychosocial-spiritual model of health is gaining recognition as it emphasizes the role of spiritual well-being in overall health. This model encourages healthcare providers to consider spiritual factors when treating patients. For further reading, see the overview available on the Oxford Academic website (Oxford Academic) (Oxford Academic).
- The BPSS model of health is increasingly recognized for its ability to provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to healthcare. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors, this model offers a more holistic perspective that aligns with the complexities of human health and well-being.
- The BPSS model of health is increasingly recognized for its ability to provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to healthcare. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors, this model offers a more holistic perspective that aligns with the complexities of human health and well-being.
It is interesting to note how the trajectory of medical care in the US is incorporating more understanding of the practicality and relevance of spiritual care. In this way, we can turn to the role of the Christian Science nurse which may be of great interest if this evolution of thought in the medical field continues this way! Note that the development of Christian Science nurses was capped with the Christian Science nurse By-law in 1908. The birth of Modern Medicine is largely seen in the Flexnor Report published in 1910.
So what does this tell us? Christian Science nursing and its whole modus operandi were established BEFORE modern medicine. Christian Science nursing is a wholly original concept, not a derivative of Western medicine—it has nothing that came from modern medicine.
How one psychologist opens a door for patients’ spiritual concernsStephen HumphriesChief Culture Writer @steve_humphries
Since 2017, more than 5,000 patients have enrolled in SPIRIT (Spiritual Psychotherapy for Inpatient, Residential, and Intensive Treatment). Clinical trials found that 90% of patients said the sessions had helped them. At a time when church attendance is falling and many Americans describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious,” SPIRIT caters to patients of all backgrounds. SPIRIT’s resources range from readings from various faiths to handouts about prayer and forgiveness.
For people who have found that religious communities aren't meeting their needs, “it speaks to an innate spiritual need,” says Dr. Rosmarin, who is also an associate professor at Harvard Medical School. “We are working at this point on how to get SPIRIT out to other hospitals and other areas. That’s the next challenge in front of me.”
Theological Sources:
- The time for thinkers has come. Truth, independent of doctrines and time-honored systems, knocks at the portal of humanity. Contentment with the past and the cold conventionality of materialism are crumbling away. Ignorance of God is no longer the stepping stone to faith. (Science and Health, p. vii:13–18)
- Through Christian Science, religion, and medicine are inspired with a diviner nature and essence; fresh pinions are given to faith and understanding, and thoughts acquaint themselves intelligently with God. (Science and Health, p. 107:7)
- Christianity is experiencing significant changes both in the US and globally. These changes reflect broader societal shifts and are influenced by cultural, technological, and theological developments. Here are some major trends and changes:
- Pew Research Center reports a significant number of Americans identifying as "spiritual but not religious," reflecting a trend towards individualized spirituality and away from traditional religious structures. This indicates a search for spiritual answers outside conventional religious institutions (The Good Body).
- Barna Group studies highlight growing interest in spirituality among younger generations, with many seeking spiritual experiences and answers through non-traditional means, including new religious movements, meditation, and mindfulness practices (The Good Body).
- Decline in Church Membership and Attendance:
- According to a Gallup report, church membership in the US has dropped below 50% for the first time in eight decades.
- According to a Gallup report, church membership in the US has dropped below 50% for the first time in eight decades.
- Rise of the "Nones":
- The term "Nones" refers to individuals who identify as atheist, agnostic, or "nothing in particular."26% of Americans now identify as religiously unaffiliated (The Good Body).
- The term "Nones" refers to individuals who identify as atheist, agnostic, or "nothing in particular."26% of Americans now identify as religiously unaffiliated (The Good Body).
- Growth of Non-Traditional and Progressive Christian Movements:
- There is an increase in non-denominational churches and movements that emphasize a more personalized and less institutional form of Christianity. These groups often focus on social justice, community engagement, and contemporary worship styles, and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, gender equality, and social justice, are gaining traction. (The Good Body).
- Faith Communities in the US See SLIDE 15
- HARTFORD, CT – Faith Communities Today (FACT), a multireligious and collaborative research initiative that has been tracking trends in the U.S. religious landscape since 2000, has just released the findings of its 2020 survey of 15,278 congregations from across 80 denominations and religious groups, the largest national survey of congregations conducted in the U.S. to date.
- Key findings include:
- The majority of churches 69% - have under 100 members
- Despite continued declines in attendance overall, about a third of congregations are growing and are spiritually vital
- Congregations have continued to diversify, particularly in terms of racial composition
- A dramatically increased utilization of technology can be seen over the past two decades, even pre-pandemic
- The fiscal health of congregations has remained mostly steady
- There is a clear and demonstrated path toward vitality with characteristics that are consistent across the two decades of our survey efforts
- HARTFORD, CT – Faith Communities Today (FACT), a multireligious and collaborative research initiative that has been tracking trends in the U.S. religious landscape since 2000, has just released the findings of its 2020 survey of 15,278 congregations from across 80 denominations and religious groups, the largest national survey of congregations conducted in the U.S. to date.
- There is an increase in non-denominational churches and movements that emphasize a more personalized and less institutional form of Christianity. These groups often focus on social justice, community engagement, and contemporary worship styles, and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, gender equality, and social justice, are gaining traction. (The Good Body).
- Emphasis on Technology and Digital Worship:
- Calls to return to original Christianity and healing
- The call to return to "original Christianity" is often voiced by various religious leaders, scholars, and movements who believe that contemporary Christianity has deviated from the teachings and practices of early Christians.
- The very loosely defined Emerging Church Movement: This movement within Christianity seeks to return to the teachings and practices of Jesus and the early church. It emphasizes community, social justice, and experiential worship as key components of authentic Christian faith.
- The Lutheran movement to reinstate healing through prayer, named after the disciple Luke, is known as the Order of Saint Luke (OSL). The Order of Saint Luke is an international, inter-denominational organization focused on the sacramental and liturgical life of the church, with a particular emphasis on healing through prayer.
- The return to Christian healing involves a revival of the practices seen in the early Church, with a strong emphasis on faith, prayer, and the belief in the active presence of the Holy Spirit. …..The common thread is a belief in the transformative power of spiritual healing as a testament to God's love and power.
- The very loosely defined Emerging Church Movement: This movement within Christianity seeks to return to the teachings and practices of Jesus and the early church. It emphasizes community, social justice, and experiential worship as key components of authentic Christian faith.
- The call to return to "original Christianity" is often voiced by various religious leaders, scholars, and movements who believe that contemporary Christianity has deviated from the teachings and practices of early Christians.
6. New views on the doctrine of atonement: The doctrine of atonement in Christianity is undergoing significant changes due to evolving theological perspectives, cultural influences, and modern interpretations. Here are some of the major shifts:
Rethinking (Penal Substitutionary) AtonementContemporary Shift: Criticism and Alternatives: Many theologians and Christians criticize this view of Christ dying for our sins as presenting a punitive image of God. Alternatives like Christus Victor (Christ's victory over sin and death) and Moral Influence Theory (Christ's life and death as an example of divine love) are gaining popularity . Emphasis on Divine Love: There is a growing emphasis on God's love and mercy over wrath and justice. This perspective highlights the relational aspect of atonement, where reconciliation and restoration are central themes.
- Note Mrs Eddy’s comment: The time is not distant when the ordinary theological views of atonement will undergo a great change, — a change as radical as that which has come over popular opinions in regard to predestination and future punishment. (Science and Health, p. 24:15)
- Peo. 2:3-7 “The improved theory and practice of religion and of medicine are mainly due to the people's improved views of the Supreme Being. As the finite sense of Deity, based on material conceptions of spiritual being, yields its grosser elements, we shall learn what God is, and what God does.”
What are the leading trends happening in scientific discovery over the last century world wide?
Over the last century, scientific discovery has undergone dramatic advancements Here are some of the leading trends:
1. Quantum Mechanics and Wave-Particle Duality and advances in Particle Physics - all to better understand the nature of matter Einstein's famous assertion, "There is no matter," alludes to the idea that matter, at its most fundamental level, is composed of energy and that what we perceive as solid objects are actually made up of vibrating energy fields. This concept aligns with modern physics, particularly quantum mechanics and theories of the nature of the universe.
2. Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering —Revolutionizing Medicine and Agriculture:
3. Information Technology and Computing -
- Microprocessors and Personal Computing:
- Artificial Intelligence ( more on this later)
- Moon Landings, Mars Exploration and Growing Commercial Spaceflight
- Climate Change.
- Renewable Energy
- Neurotechnology: Innovations like brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are enabling new ways to interact with technology and hold potential for treating neurological disorders.
- Brain Mapping: (the premise being that brain is the source of intelligence) However there are some breakthroughs - although these are not in the majority!
- Neurotheology, also known as the neuroscience of religion, is an interdisciplinary field that seeks to understand the relationship between the brain and religious or spiritual experiences. Neurotheology offers valuable insights into how spiritual experiences are represented in the brain and how these experiences impact mental health and well-being. By bridging the gap between science and spirituality, neurotheology contributes to a deeper understanding of the human condition and the nature of consciousness.
- Simulation Hypothesis:
- Proposed by philosophers and scientists like Nick Bostrom, the simulation hypothesis suggests that our reality might be a sophisticated computer simulation, which would mean that what we perceive as matter is an artificial construct.
- Source: Bostrom, N. (2003). Are You Living in a Computer Simulation? Philosophical Quarterly, 53(211), 243-255.
- Proposed by philosophers and scientists like Nick Bostrom, the simulation hypothesis suggests that our reality might be a sophisticated computer simulation, which would mean that what we perceive as matter is an artificial construct.
- Holographic Principle:
- This principle suggests that the entire universe can be described as a two-dimensional information structure "painted" on the cosmological horizon, implying that our 3D world is an illusion. This theory is supported by certain models in string theory and black hole physics.
- Source: Hooft, G. (1993). Dimensional Reduction in Quantum Gravity. arXiv
/9310026.
- This principle suggests that the entire universe can be described as a two-dimensional information structure "painted" on the cosmological horizon, implying that our 3D world is an illusion. This theory is supported by certain models in string theory and black hole physics.
These trends reflect years of transformative scientific discovery driven by technological advances, interdisciplinary research, and global collaboration. Each field continues to evolve moving from a more limited material basis to one more metaphysical -, promising further breakthroughs that will shape our understanding of the universe and improve human life.
“Belief in a material basis, from which may be deduced all rationality, is slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis, looking away from matter to Mind as the cause of every effect.” (Science and Health, p. 268:1–9)
And we are here, ready and willing, to cheer on, support, and continue to heal as humanity continues to grow from sense to Soul; as it is “ slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis….”
To Live for all mankind
"I know that my mission is for all the earth, not alone for my dear devoted followers in Christian Science. ... All my work, all my efforts, all my prayers and tears are for humanity, and the spread of peace and love among mankind" (Mary Baker Eddy, in a 1907 interview with The New York American).
How do we live for all mankind?
Think of it. Because we love one another, we live. We are all interconnected - an expression of the ONE compound idea - man - including all right ideas. We are each an individualized consciousness - a right idea - demonstrating the infinite manifestation of God reflected by the one compound idea, man.
To fully understand even the first line of the Lord's Prayer and its spiritual interpretation OUR FATHER-MOTHER GOD sets the groundwork for us to live for all mankind. We are all connected. We belong to God and to one another
From the infinitesimal to infinity – and from the individual to the global, every Truth we give witness to, every Principle of Love we exercise, every good motive and act has behind it Life and immortality and infinite Truth. No prayer is small. No prayer is ever wasted.
“But what of ourselves, and our times and obligations? Are we duly aware of our own great opportunities and responsibilities? Are we prepared to meet and improve them, to act up to the acme of divine energy wherewith we are armored?....Never was there a more solemn and imperious call than God makes to us all, right here, for fervent devotion and an absolute consecration to the greatest and holiest of all causes. The hour is come.” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, pp. 176:25–4 (to 2nd .))
So to live for all mankind -
- Welove, love, love. Be all love.we stay in metaphysical shape
- We pray daily for ourselves
- We act—we glorify God by daily planting seeds of kindness, grace, compassion, and intelligence, trusting that they will grow like mustard seeds!
- No act is too small, nor is any prayer irrelevant or inconsequential.
Let’s take up the work for the world - fulfilling our duty to God, to our Leader, and to all mankind and take a look at several things that are largely shaping the human condition today and consider how human needs are already being met. Here are some prayerful ideas given to treat some of these conditions:
- Dissolving disruption and polarization of politics
- Understanding innovation and AI
- Breaking free of hatred, racism and “othering”
- Loving the earth and handling climate change
- Establishing joy
How to pray about the polarization and chaos of politics. This was a question from one of you ( Joy). Many of us are led to pray in certain ways: for government, for peace, for universal brotherhood and sisterhood. But let’s consider praying with a NO and YES orientation – saying NO to the hatred and division and YES to the unity and innocence of all God’s children.
NO to divisiveness
Hatred is a plague-spot that kills.
There is no erroneous influence luring humanity to give voice to rage, resentment, grievance, and hatred.
“The pent-up elements of mortal mind need no terrible detonation to free them. Envy, rivalry, hate need no temporary indulgence that they be destroyed through suffering; they should be stifled from lack of air and freedom.” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 356:5)
The falsehood that tempts others into mockery and acts of farce and shamelessness cannot be animated by God’s creation and fall by their own lack of substance.
.
10 Psalms 37:35, 36 35I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. 36 Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
YES to God’s creation
Dignity knows no denomination.
Honor knows no hatred.
Noble lives live on.
The nothingness of cruel evil is revealed—it has only hatred—the lack of Love. There is no fuel here. The power and purity of Innocence—permanent, pervasive, and penetrating—expands in our consciousness. We now understand how Innocence is its own protection, widely proactive, killing lust and hypocrisy, and overcoming guilt and error.
Truth is always the victor.
“ This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.”(Isaiah 43:20 21)
We are all God’s chosen people, the willing people - willing to do good, willing to do what is right, willing to unite, willing to express their higher nature of health, wealth, and charity. The people cannot be manipulated, emotionally held hostage, tricked or deceived. This people is US God’s children, and we cannot be tempted to be swayed by lies or appetites for revenge, nor can they make channels for fear to express hatred.
God is constantly in communication with each of His creations. “The intercommunication is always from God to His idea man.” (Science and Health, p. 284:31–32)
Each one of us has an active spiritual sense—a conscious, constant capacity to understand God. We can support the active spiritual sense of each one of us - individually and collectively, knowing that the divine influence is ever-present in consciousness.
These people are cherished of God. God has created them to glorify Him - infinite and eternal as She is.
Daniel 10:19 O man (to 1st .)19 “O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong.”
“ The waters will be pacified, and Christ will command the wave. “(Science and Health, p. 570:18)
2 - Dealing with AI and innovation
AI is rapidly growing and starting to touch many parts of our lives, bringing “with great rapidity many useful wonders” ( See SH 268:1) and profound questions to the fore, including what intelligence is and what it means to think; what is consciousness and who is it that is thinking?.
AI includes an extensive database from open and public sources, including what is fact and fabrication as well as what is brilliant and biased. It can automate, innovate, and analyze all processes and determine solutions rapidly, but has no moral compass, transparency or ethics . If this tool is to safely develop its maximum potential for continuing good, it needs context, meaning, guidance, and insight from moral and spiritual reasoning, spiritual intuition, and receptivity to the infinite source of intelligence. And this comes from the exercise of our higher spiritual nature.
Christian Science teaches that God is the ultimate source of all intelligence. Our true nature reflects this divine intelligence, bringing order and healing into our lives. We bring to the development of groundbreaking inventions a morality that moves thought to higher achievement and effectiveness while wisely safeguarding innovations to protect and improve humanity's conditions. Spiritually endowed, we have an infinite capacity to conceive, direct, and control invention with a greater understanding of a universal, original, and unifying spirituality that inspires and advances all meaningful progress.
3 - Dealing with Racism
Eradicating racism is to decapitate evil.
"Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or that becomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims, but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered by Science." (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 284:24).
But how do we deal with centuries of hatred that now seem systematically steeped in our institutions and our culture? The healing of evil or hatred starts with waking up to the omnipotence and supremacy of God's love and protection. When one's thoughts of God's power and purity are so sure, the dynamic of love and fear changes, as love destroys fear.
Love swallows up what is fearful and evil. “Evil is not supreme; good is not helpless.”(Science and Health, p. 207:10–13) Evil can claim no power at any time in history; evil’s roots throughout history are uprooted, exposed, and deleted, leaving it with no heritage and no individuality to claim. Truth sweeps it all away.
We can discern the anger that arises from injustice and comes from broken hearts feeling hopelessness and exhaustion. The wickedness of evil will end - its nature is to self-destruct. When we don’t feed it or fear it, it implodes.
“Love never fails” was written thousands of years ago, given to us in I Corinthians 13: 8 and is eternally persistent in its relevance today. The healing power of Love is explained in Christian Science. Eddy once counseled her students about the healing work of Christian Science "Never become discouraged, dear ones, this work is not humdrum, it is growth. It is repeating and defeating, repeating and defeating, repeating, and defeating (We Knew Mary Baker Eddy, Expanded edition. volume 1, p. 263).
Human-made systems of racism’s hatred, dominance, and inequality will be replaced by the self-sustaining spiritual systems of divine Mind “around which circle harmoniously all things.” (See Science and Health, p. 310:14). As we give our consent to divine Love and understand more clearly spiritual causation, we can expect to see Love’s influence grow and human dignity, compassion, and equality take center stage. And because we know that the roots of these qualities are spiritual, eternal, and of God, we see that these cannot be sidelined or co-opted by the self-defeating motives of hatred, greed, and power. The systems of hatred will break down, but the systems of Mind remain, sustaining and healing all humanity.
But what if these systems have lasted for decades, centuries even? “The centuries break, the earth-bound wake! God’s glorified” sings Mrs Eddy’s hymn “Satisfied”. And what is a day, decade or centuries compared to what eternity, Life itself, holds over us “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past,.”(Psalms 90:4).
Evil has a beginning and end - it is the product of time. Thus it is not sustainable nor capable to continue on its own.
“Eternity, not time, expresses the thought of Life, and time is no part of eternity. One ceases in proportion as the other is recognized. Time is finite; eternity is forever infinite.”
(Science and Health, pp. 468:28–1)
Oneness is the universal and eternal Truth of our spiritual unity with God and all of humanity: “Have we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us?” We can return to this again and again and again until the human yields to this divine Truth and the hatred and ignorance expressed as racism is defused and dissolved.
4-Dealing with Climate Change
“All of nature teaches of God’s great love for man,” writes Mary Baker Eddy. Nature reflects its Creator: resilient, abundant, balanced, and fruitful. As God's children, we mirror this intelligence and beauty. God is known “as the central Life and intelligence around which circle harmoniously all things in the systems of Mind” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 310:15).
Seen spiritually, the earth is our universal holy land which belongs to divine Mind and Her creation. Misinterpreting nature as something to exploit leads to imbalance and long-term harm.
Addressing climate change requires a shift in thought from material misinterpretations and misuse to spiritual understanding. “The elements and functions of the physical body and of the physical world will change as the mortal mind changes its beliefs” (Science and Health). Then, we will find ourselves capable of exercising God-given dominion over the fish of the sea and ... and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
(Genesis 1:26 3rd and)
Robin Kimmerer, a Potawatomi botanist and author of "Braiding Sweetgrass," writes of the need to change from the material view of earth: “The market economy story has spread like wildfire... But it is just a story we have told ourselves and we are free to tell another, to reclaim the old one.” We have the authority to change our story by changing our thoughts - thus changing our actions.
"The physical universe expresses the conscious and unconscious thoughts of mortals” (Science and Health, p. 484:13-14).
Today's climate extremes reflect conflicting and fearful thoughts. But by persistently opposing these with the truths of Christian Science, we start from the reality of God's creation—balanced, resilient, and intelligent. Truth acts as an alterative, neutralizing the toxicity of conflicting opinions, beliefs and rumors and restoring all to their rightful being as harmonious, whole, sustainable, and pure. Truth and Love antidote the mental miasma - defined as an unwholesome or befogging atmosphere, influence, etc. and thus invigorate and sustain existence. (See SH 274: 1-3)
A consciousness so filled with Truth – out of which comes truthful actions, compassionate considerations, and intelligent solutions that lead to a recognition of the dignity and majesty of all creation. A consciousness so filled with Truth sees the spiritual value of the earth, and learns from nature all of God’s love for man.
5- the happiness and joy revolution
“Happiness (like joy) is spiritual, born of Truth and Love. It is unselfish; therefore it cannot exist alone, but requires all mankind to share it. Human affection is not poured forth vainly, even though it meet no return. Love enriches the nature, enlarging, purifying, and elevating it. (Science and Health, p. 57:18–24)
Whose side are you on?
We might as well be playing for the wrong side if we're spending more time telling ourselves and others the deplorable facts of our case than we are striving to understand spiritual truth. ( The “oh ain’t it a shame!” conversations)
Mary Baker Eddy writes: "If you wish to be happy, argue with yourself on the side of happiness; take the side you wish to carry, and be careful not to talk on both sides, or to argue stronger for sorrow than for joy. You are the attorney for the case, and will win or lose according to your plea."1
That much is clear. We learn from experience that even a little understanding of the truth that man is spiritual and constantly held by God in wholeness, joy, and health does bring healing of human discords. So we realize we do much better to argue for that spiritual reality than for the pressing details of our own situation as they may appear to be.
From Primary Class:
C. Let's look to Jesus ( the author and finisher of our faith) to understand Joy and its relation to triumph, victory and dominion
i. Joy and resurrection are related. in Hebrews 12: 2-3 This is from the New Century Version of the Bible:
a) 2 Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect. He suffered death on the cross. But he accepted the shame as if it were nothing because of the joy that God put before him. And now he is sitting at the right side of God’s throne. [8]
ii. Because of the joy set before him – suffered the cross, accepted the shame …..as if it were nothing??? What was it about this joy? What did he know?
a) I found this definition of joy quite thought- provoking – joy - the understanding of the ultimate triumph of life. Then I reasoned:
- Jesus could go through any of the human conditions thrown at him and still feel joy! Not only did he prove the nothingness of sin and sickness and death – he knew that life always triumphs –
- As it says in II Cor: “... God, ...always leads us to triumph in Christ, ...
- that love never fails
- and from SH that “Truth is always the victor.
- As it says in II Cor: “... God, ...always leads us to triumph in Christ, ...
c) Jesus showed us that if we follow his teachings, continue in his love, and love one another, there is triumph - there is joy. And joy - that savvy indicator of triumphant life - is our forever song.
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SUMMARY STATEMENT
How can we best LIVE FOR ALL MANKIND?
Obeying, loving, and reflecting the ONE MIND —Our Father-Mother God all harmonious with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. A take-the-lid-off kind of love. Love one another and yourselves with that same vigor.
Love causes us to grow. It never leaves us where it found us. Love is the force behind all human progress. Therefore, let us love God by loving one another thus living for all mankind and bring with that love an everlasting JOY.
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