I have attempted to explain the author's position on the loss of self, which is an integral part of his direction and a relevant problem in the modern religious scene. But I must quickly confess that the author is reluctant to offer explanation and probably does so only as a concession to the learned divines who may read and criticize his book. How often he remarks that "only he who experiences it will really understand." If there is a problem, it exists only at the verbal level or metaphysical level, while at the level of experiential love it is simply a non-problem since then one knows existentially what it is to lose self and find self at the same time. The whole endeavor of the author is not to explain (for no explanation is possible) but to lead the disciple to a state of consciousness where he will see it for himself. "And so I urge you: go after experience rather than knowledge. On account of pride, knowledge may often deceive you, but this gentle, loving affection will not deceive you. Knowledge tends to breed conceit, but love builds. Knowledge is full of labor, but love, full of rest." This is like the Zen Buddhists, who without explanation, insist that you simply sit in meditation.
Cloud are you then saying that when Jesus was on the cross, because He loved His Father like He did, that He was full of rest, beause He was full of Love, yet nailed to a tree?
I truly embrace change in my perceived essence as I understand the power of God that is resident in me and I realize that enlightenment is but a recognition, not a change at all.
See if the religion of your nature and the philosophy of your being can be integrated, through the science of your mind, into the brilliantly fearless new reality that is your evolutionary destiny.
All we ALL really want is Peace at the core of everything - ourselves, our environment, our circumstances, our world, our one family under God.
We already have the peace that frees our soul, what we need is full-time recognition.
change /tʃeɪndʒ/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[cheynj] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation verb, changed, chang·ing, noun –verb (used with object) 1. to make the form, nature, content, future course, etc., of (something) different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone: to change one's name; to change one's opinion; to change the course of history. 2. to transform or convert 3. to give and take reciprocally; interchange: to change places with someone. 4. to transfer from one (conveyance) to another:
5. to remove and replace the covering or coverings of: –verb (used without object) 6. to become different: Overnight the nation's mood changed. 7. to become altered or modified: 8. to become transformed or converted (usually fol. by into): 9. to pass gradually into (usually fol. by to or into) 10. to make a change or an exchange: 11. (of the moon) to pass from one phase to another. 12. the act or fact of changing; fact of being changed. 13. a transformation or modification; alteration 14. a variation or deviation: a change in the daily routine. 15. the substitution of one thing variety or novelty: Let's try a new restaurant for a change. 16. the passing from one place, state, form, or phase to another: a change of seasons; social change. 17. Jazz. harmonic progression from one tonality to another; modulation. 18. the supplanting of one thing by another. 19. anything that is or may be substituted for another. 20. a fresh set of clothing. 21. a balance of money that is returned when the sum tendered in payment is larger than the sum due. 22. Obsolete. changefulness; caprice. 23. change one's mind, to change one's opinions or intentions.
Well until Sufjan Stevens, who is one of my personal now favorites, does his Georgia album, we've still got Decatur from the classic, Come On Feel The Illinoise album. If you've never heard this native Wolverine's Spirit-filled musings, treat yourself sometime.
youtube.com/watch?v=DpdL2DLshf4
Anon,
Rather than rest being the fulfillment or end of this state of ecstatic love in which the author speaks, if that's what your question implied; although a possibility, it would seem to me this rest would rather be referring and applied to an aspect of the approach we take in stretching towards this holy union. In opposition to striving with knowledge alone as an obstacle to. Knowledge of self, of tradition, of religion and preconceptions, even of and maybe most importantly of God Herself. ;) I imagine in this state described, Love could not be boxed into one expression or state such as rest, for God Himself has no such single bounds to His being, God is Spirit and God is Love. It seems Christ's Passion was truly the ultimate apex of this love and I don't know if we can say whether rest had any portion of that great expression. But thanks be to God we died their with Him, and also jointly partake in His resurrection even on today, this day! The veil has been rent in two and we can boldly approach the throne of grace; reaching out in blind naked love towards the One who now reaches out towards us. A most definite change to the "Big Box, I command you, Jesus Store" many Christians have been taught to "dial up" in this age. The age is changing. You and I are are bringing about that change as the Christ rises in us.
That's my thoughts on it. Do you feel that, or have another way of looking at it, or thoughts to add? This is a fascinating thing to me. The reality of a living resurrected life on this earth, now. Christ living through us, a vessel of healing and ecstatic love, a co-union and co-creation in the ministry of conciliation. Draw me there Lord! Draw us there.
"I realize that enlightenment is but a recognition"
Yes I see that, Anon @ 7:18. May today a great multitude of souls be born again, and many, many more be born again, again. May each and every day we avail ourselves to change, allowing the Holy Ghost to enlighten our minds, and hearts, and lives. May we freshly and vividly recognize each new circadian revelation in this present Resurrection Life!
We are presently entering into the greatest phase of consciousness evolution in the history of humanity. The circles of the spiral dynamic are turning faster and becoming closer. Changes in information, technology, consciousness, and spirituality, that once took years to phase in are now happening in mere days. Actually, "shift" may be a better term than "change". Which ever term you prefer, mankind need to prepare and ready themselves for the accelerated movement towards our "evolutionary destiny". A movement into a world of interdependence and collaboration. Of unity and peace. Of service and compassion. That is our evolutionary destiny and that is the shift that is now taking place.
I'm really feeling the flow of this Blog right now. Let us take this change, this shift, this Blast! And allow it to reach into each and every part of our lives. From the way we love and perceive ourselves, to the way we now come to know and experience our ever-loving, more than enough, unto all mankind, perfectly sovereign Holy God; spread outward in conciliatory loving contribution unto all the earth. Preaching this resurrection by the One, yet even of all, and unto all. This shift in perception is spreading into all culture and the cities of all nations. Jehova Omega is orchestrating divine appointments and sweeping revolutions of consciousness. For not all knowledge is unprofitable. Everything and everyone have their present part. Revelation knowledge is being dispensed unto those with ears to hear, those who are carrying this true evangel which the angel of the Lord declared was unto all men. May the spark of curiosity and strong inquiry arrest each spirit who hears our God's word of love. May God deliver them into inspired recognition of His goodness and forgiving mercy. Prepare them even this day with Spirit dreams of revelation in the night season. Jesus we give you praise in these things. You are the Great God, who is abundantly able to present all mankind spotless, in perfect completion. All, which is everything that Father has placed into your hands. No heart is outside of your draw and longing. Glory be unto your holy, holy, holy name Great Hound of Heaven! You are the resurrection and the life. You are alive in me. You are alive in Church of the Now and Paradox. You are alive unto all men.
Remember actually learning how to type on a manual typewriter? Those long keystrokes needed to make a word? And the ribbon getting messed up? And correction fluid? And lining it back up to type over it?
It's not being afraid of change that is the concern, it's the is it veering away from the truth. Is it addition or subtraction from the core, by self acclaimed theologians. Spirit filled? More than likely yes. Spirit led? I wonder. Spirit truth? That's the big one.
I was just doing a little Bible study on the word Rest. While looking in both books of 1st and 2nd Kings I found an interesting pattern in Scripture. Look how many times, when death was at hand (and this can take a symbolic meaning of the death in our flesh we are faced with in this life) at these times of death, the king is referenced to be resting with his fathers. When we do rest in the presence of God, resting with ourselves and putting to rest our own striving and attempts to be "good enough" or any other false impression we have of our own strength. It is in these times of union and rest with the Father we find death. We also see a crowning of a new king in these scriptures. Could this signify the reign of "The King" who has been birthed into our lives? What a true change when we die, allowing The King takes the seat in our throne.
This list is not complete, but drives home the idea.
2 Kings 14:16 Jehoash rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. And Jeroboam his son succeeded him as king.
2 Kings 13:13 Jehoash rested with his fathers, and Jeroboam succeeded him on the throne. Jehoash was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel.
2 Kings 13:9 Jehoahaz rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And Jehoash his son succeeded him as king.
2 Kings 10:35 Jehu rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And Jehoahaz his son succeeded him as king.
2 Kings 8:24 Jehoram rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David. And Ahaziah his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 22:50 Then Jehoshaphat rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of David his father. And Jehoram his son succeeded him.
1 Kings 22:40 Ahab rested with his fathers. And Ahaziah his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 16:28 Omri rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And Ahab his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 15:24 Then Asa rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of his father David. And Jehoshaphat his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 15:8 And Abijah rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. And Asa his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 14:31 And Rehoboam rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David. His mother's name was Naamah; she was an Ammonite. And Abijah his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 14:20 He reigned for twenty-two years and then rested with his fathers. And Nadab his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 11:43 Then he rested with his fathers and was buried in the city of David his father. And Rehoboam his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 11:21 While he was in Egypt, Hadad heard that David rested with his fathers and that Joab the commander of the army was also dead. Then Hadad said to Pharaoh, "Let me go, that I may return to my own country."
1 Kings 2:10 Then David rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.
A high school friend joined a cloud of witnesses at 12:08 am after a crappy battle with cancer. He is much loved in this community and will be greatly missed. R.I.P. Jeff Blount. Please keep his family in your prayers, Tina, Drew,Matt,Megan, his parents and a multitude of family and friends.
I liked that bible study about rest...the death so that another king could take his place.
Come unto me, all you who labor and I will give you rest. A change occurs here...we clock out from our work...change our work clothes in for our resting clothes.
Let Your priests be clothed with righteousness, And let Your godly ones sing for joy.
Psalm 132:9 (NAS)
All you praying ones today, remember Texas and all those effected by this "Ike". I just saw some satellite photos, and this thing is massive. It's taking up the whole of the entire gulf of Mexico.
Isaiah 25:4 (NAS)
For You have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat
That Decatur talk got me on a Sufjan Stevens kick this morning. What a beautiful song this is. Such a heart of love between The Redeemer and His redeemed.
For the Widows in Paradise, for the Fatherless in Ypsilanti
"Is there some idea to replace my life?"
youtube.com/watch?v=CVZcAzXWciQ&feature=re
I've have called you children I have called you son What is there to answer If I'm the only one Morning comes in Paradise Morning comes in light Still I must obey Still I must invite
If there's anything to say If there's anything to do I there's any other way I'd do anything for you
I was dressed in embarassment I was dressed in white If you had a part of me Will you take your time Even if I come back Even if I die Is there some idea To replace my life
Like a father to impress Like a mother's mourning dress If we ever make a mess I'll do anything for you
I have called you preacher I have called you son If you have a father Or if you haven't one I'll do anything for you I'll do anything for you I'll do anything for you I'll do anything for you I'll do anything for you
I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you I did everything for you
What a beautiful and inspiring acapella version these girls sing as well.
Hey every-1!! Me afraid of change???..umm no, bring IT ON!!
Reminds me of a caterpillar that turns into something beautiful!! Does the butterfly stay inside and get depressed from the new change...nope!! It flys for something else new.
Change, as it is the case for me and my house, has created the most joyful of memories that I have in store.
There is no fear that comes with change when it is recieved as an inevitability of life.
Every reaction to change is just another stroke of the brush in my portrait of who I say that God is. It is also an opportunity for me to write yet another book in the bible of me.
My world has been crazy for the past few weeks, days, seconds, whatever. Some may have meant it for harm but God meant it for good……..
Talk about change....
Wow, what a difference a day makes. A day in the kingdom of God is like a dream come true. What a difference a prayer makes. Constant communication with God crumbles strongholds and calms the calamitous seas of the world. Two days ago I was expecting the best news I has heard in months. I was totally confident that, that was what I would hear. But what I heard Wednesday morning totally shocked me into starry eyed stupor of despair. The decision I got was the last thing I thought I would hear that day. My situation seemed hopeless. Everyone involves was shocked and dismayed from the secretaries to all the bosses in the Arkansas state district where I worked. No one had ever heard of the Arkansas state Hwy. & Trans. Dept. AHTD ever turn anyone away from disability retirement when a “one” Doctor had declared them unable to return to work. But that was what I heard that morning…DENIED! I couldn’t believe what I was hearing no one else could either. And I not only had my family Dr of 15 years who is not just a MD but very well known around here his father is actually the administrator of the largest hospital in NE Arkansas. I also had a very well respected surgeon advising me and my workplace that I should not return to work. When I was released from my surgeon about 3 weeks ago my workers compensation checks stopped so I was really counting on this to come through. The situation seemed quite bleak. I asked the Lord why this was happening to me and He said because if it had went well it would not build my faith in Him or be a witness for Him. So I guess He just wanted me to trust Him so He could show out a little bit. So I in turn could tell others of how awesome He is; as I am doing now.
But then something else that was unheard of happened. The state retirement board and their doctor said that if I could get some certain information from my surgeon they would have a special meeting the next day “just for me” to look at it again; otherwise it would be December before they would meet again. Well as my boss said this also was unheard of, if you were turned down you just had to wait until the next meeting. Seems they did not get all the surgeons pre-op and post-op notes in the paperwork that was mailed to them. Well it has been my experience that getting anything from her office (my surgeon) usually takes days if not over a week. Problem……they wanted it that day so they could meet the next day. To not make this too long “BY THE GRACE AND FAVOR OF GOD” I will just say that before 3:00 pm that day I faxed the papers to their office.
The next day I got up and started my day in quiet time and prayer as I usually do but at the end of a prayer I said something that “just came out of my mouth” that I really cant remember ever saying before in a prayer. I ended the prayer by saying “show yourself strong on my behalf Lord” and when I said it a peace came over me.
Then looked in the “Year in The Now” devotional and here is what God said through the Bishop:
September 11 "The name of the Lord is a STRONG TOWER;
the righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10) Today I will live in the now! I will live in the now because I have the confident assurance that God is my refuge and strength – a very present help in time of trouble! His name is my fortress and protection . . . I will not fear . . . what can man do to me? I dwell in the secret place of the Most High and, therefore, I remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty today, knowing that no foe can withstand Him! He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Today I will walk in perfect peace – the peace produced by possessing the promise that God is personally watching over His Word to perform it in my behalf – preserving and protecting me in the private pavilion of the power of His name!
Today I will boldly decree and declare that no weapon formed against me can prosper, and that every tongue that rises against me today will be shown to be in the wrong (Isaiah 54:17)!
Today I will be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might – strengthened with might by His spirit in the inner man. The joy of the Lord is my strength. The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life — of whom then shall I be afraid? Let the weak say I am strong (Joel 3:10), so in all of my weaknesses today, I say that God is my strength, and I am strong in Him!
Today I will rejoice in my righteousness, for the righteous run into God's tower and find real safety.
Today I will be kept free from all harm – spiritually, emotionally and physically. The angel of the Lord encamps around me – the angels bear me up in their hands, so that I do not injure my foot (my path of destiny) against a stone (of crisis, calamity or consequences of the curse).
Today I will enjoy the view from atop the strong tower of the Lord, and today I will live in the now!
I said Wow what a confirmation! I began reading it over and over and such faith was building up in me that completely lost all fear and anxiousness over the situation ”I KNEW” it was going to be OK. I just started to pray in tongues and praise the Lord for what He was going to do! The board and the doctor met at 9:00 am and when the doctor looked at the papers he approved it in 5 min. flat!
At the same time these last few weeks I had been going through quite a misunderstanding with the workers compensation people also about my not returning to work causing us to not be able to reach a normal settlement for this type of injury (I was not suing them). Actually because of some false accusations that were made be a nurse that was working for another company that handles some of their more serious cases. Truth be known this nurse and I did not hit it off well at the very first because in our first conversation my belief and websites came into the conversation. After a few days I received quite a sharp email from her office about my site and my belief; which I sent a quite lengthy reply; which I have yet to receive an answer (that was 8 months ago). Anyway our relationship went down hill from there and she tried to cause me all the trouble she could. Even though we had this sharp tension among us I was always nice and polite with her which I think irritated her even more. But as the verse quoted in AYTN says Today I will boldly decree and declare that no weapon formed against me can prosper, and that every tongue that rises against me today will be shown to be in the wrong (Isaiah 54:17)! I did just that and before the day was over I was on the phone with the workers compensation people who had discovered this fallacious representation and we came to a reasonable agreement which just has to be drawn up by the legal dept. and signed be the judge. Which may take a while but at least it is settled, thank God!
God is working out His purpose for my life and with AYTN I declare I will be kept free from all harm – spiritually, emotionally and physically. The angel of the Lord encamps around me – the angels bear me up in their hands, so that I do not injure my foot (my path of destiny) against a stone (of crisis, calamity or consequences of the curse).
Life is full of excitement and wonderful under the umbrella of God’s Grace and Favor; walking in His Kingdom!
Show yourself strong on my behalf too... Prayed the same prayer Pastor Dennis and He did. Asked God this week "where are you...just show me your hand in what is going on" and out of the mouth of a four year old....The clouds are in the sky and you can't see Him, the stars are in the sky and you can't see Him...the Earth is constantly spinning and you can't see that either, doesn't mean it isn't happening...smart kid.
Here is an interesting video that I think could go along with this "phase of consciousness evolution in the history of humanity" we are experiencing. It at least made me think......
I truly believe that change comes nevertheless and one either adapts to it or gets overtaken by it. I believe that when change is necessary, not to change can be destructive. So many people in this country are stuck to old ideologies and habits, i.e. traditions that are old and stale and stink like an old fish wrapped in paper. Rather than adapt to change, not only in own lives but also in the world around us, most think it is easier to allow things to remain the same. The problem is nothing ever remains the same, everything is always evolving and changing. I do understand that preception is a powerful thing and to break a habit it takes at least 30 days. However, I do think this is the time that each one of us is being pushed to "examine ourselves" and evaluate where our preception was conceived, and discard thinking that has no real honorable foundation and is not based in love. To me, True Change in Preception comes when you begin to sincerely utter "Lord, Let your will be done". This way when change comes you automatically train yourself to know his will is being done and ask him to deal with you concerning things which may be hard to accept. I also believe if your motives are anchored in Love, you will never be that far off base in your preception for God "will perfect the things that concern you" and make your transistions in life a whole lot easier.
Thanks, NTL. I haven’t seen the new DHS stadium, but I’ve heard about it. Man, I ran a lot of stadium steps in the old one when I ran track, and marched a lot of half-time shows on that field when I was in the band (the old field is believed to be the first on a Georgia high school campus to stage a lighted game in 1930…built in 1940, it had been metro Atlanta’s oldest).
Anyway, everything changes. I think the first game in the new one is next Friday night. Maybe I'll go if I have all my stuff ready for Uganda.
I just found out that “Bones” from Star Trek was a DHS alumnus (a little before my time)…
Hauntingly beautiful videos. What sayings and admonitions in the second one. It really gives me a clearer insight into the place of help and comfort angels must play in our existence.
Hey Cloudation, you spoke so well, the conclusion is very pleasant.
Experiencing is such a deep understanding, it includes perception, sensation, the actual evolution and transformation from where one was to where one is –and immediately sets the prospect for more experience. I can watch a flower bloom, but when I bloom, I understand the flower. I can enjoy a tree’s shade, but when I provide shade, I understand that part of the tree. It is Love that is the core of vulnerable, fully open experience. We trust in Love, We Trust God, so we enter into the experience with God without barrier, filter or judgment, with all of our faculties, simply to be with and as God is, as we trust.
In our lives, our daily experience, the people we interact with regularly, have the most impact on our experience - Our parents, siblings, children, spouses (and/or ex-spouses) , co-workers, bosses, employees, friends.
All of these people can say or do things that we interpret as diminishing to us, especially in the realm of ‘I know they meant ….. ‘ by their words or actions, even if they were not overtly said – ‘reading between the lines’ is the axiom. What seems confusing to me that often when we assume what someone meant, it is often as something diminishing or something we perceive as negative. For one thing, it is a whole lot more enjoyable to assume they meant something even better than what was said. The point is that when we assume or ‘know’ what ‘they’ really meant, it is all us doing the ‘knowing’. What ‘they’ really meant could equally be negative or positive. Especially those we perceive as adversaries. Why even bother with the negative aspect, how does that help us? - That really is another direction.
When those we are regularly involved with give us a perceived slight, we can always ask them what they meant, and if the meant the slight we perceive. Almost always they say they did not. That is where face value has so much benefit. It is lawful to disbelieve them, but not expedient.
I know for me, in certain moments I may have made a sarcastic remark, or sideways compliment that could be cutting. In those moments I was dealing with my own fear, aggravation, buttons pushed, etc. Later, after that passes, if asked, I really do not believe what I felt at the moment. So, I want to change it, focus on what I know in general, outside of the spike. Many of us are similar. So, if someone really believed as part of who they are what might have been intended or perceived at the moment, they would say – ‘yes, that is what I meant’ . Mostly, that is not the case, and there is every likelihood what we thought they meant was only our own filters and imagination – being , ‘That is what I would have meant, so it must be what they meant’. Which of course has nothing or little to do with them, and everything, or mostly what has to do with ourselves.
Bottom line – it is lawful and oh so expedient to take what people say, especially if asked to clarify, at face value. The same for what people believe, we all express, and all want to be taken and do best to receive at face value. Anything after that is expressing our perceptions and judgments upon others.
Discernment is about knowing each other by the Spirit, which always is understanding and love, to see each other through that with real understanding that is based in truth and love. Discernment is not seeing how someone really meant to slight us when they said or did ‘X’ . In that vein, discernment would be to see how they really blessed us in the big picture. Since we know, I they are truly our enemy, or adversary, whatever they do intentionally to diminish us is turned to benefit by God, as is anything we may ever do as an enemy or adversary to others. God blesses us all the same. I love That !!!!
34 comments:
Loss of Self conclusion...
I have attempted to explain the author's position on the loss of self, which is an integral part of his direction and a relevant problem in the modern religious scene. But I must quickly confess that the author is reluctant to offer explanation and probably does so only as a concession to the learned divines who may read and criticize his book. How often he remarks that "only he who experiences it will really understand." If there is a problem, it exists only at the verbal level or metaphysical level, while at the level of experiential love it is simply a non-problem since then one knows existentially what it is to lose self and find self at the same time. The whole endeavor of the author is not to explain (for no explanation is possible) but to lead the disciple to a state of consciousness where he will see it for himself. "And so I urge you: go after experience rather than knowledge. On account of pride, knowledge may often deceive you, but this gentle, loving affection will not deceive you. Knowledge tends to breed conceit, but love builds. Knowledge is full of labor, but love, full of rest." This is like the Zen Buddhists, who without explanation, insist that you simply sit in meditation.
Bishop,
Speaking of change, this summer the Decatur High School Football Stadium was completely torn down, concrete bleachers and all.
The new stadium is just about completed, and it is a sight to behold, artificial turf included.
Uh-Oh Bishop, might have to take another trip back to the future!
Cloud are you then saying that when Jesus was on the cross, because He loved His Father like He did, that He was full of rest, beause He was full of Love, yet nailed to a tree?
I truly embrace change in my perceived essence as I understand the power of God that is resident in me and I realize that enlightenment is but a recognition, not a change at all.
See if the religion of your nature
and the philosophy of your being
can be integrated,
through the science of your mind,
into the brilliantly fearless new reality that is your evolutionary destiny.
All we ALL really want is Peace at the core of everything - ourselves, our environment, our circumstances, our world, our one family under God.
We already have the peace that frees our soul, what we need is full-time recognition.
change /tʃeɪndʒ/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[cheynj] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation verb, changed, chang·ing, noun
–verb (used with object)
1. to make the form, nature, content, future course, etc., of (something) different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone: to change one's name; to change one's opinion; to change the course of history.
2. to transform or convert
3. to give and take reciprocally; interchange: to change places with someone.
4. to transfer from one (conveyance) to another:
5. to remove and replace the covering or coverings of:
–verb (used without object)
6. to become different: Overnight the nation's mood changed.
7. to become altered or modified:
8. to become transformed or converted (usually fol. by into):
9. to pass gradually into (usually fol. by to or into)
10. to make a change or an exchange:
11. (of the moon) to pass from one phase to another.
12. the act or fact of changing; fact of being changed.
13. a transformation or modification; alteration
14. a variation or deviation: a change in the daily routine.
15. the substitution of one thing variety or novelty: Let's try a new restaurant for a change.
16. the passing from one place, state, form, or phase to another: a change of seasons; social change.
17. Jazz. harmonic progression from one tonality to another; modulation.
18. the supplanting of one thing by another.
19. anything that is or may be substituted for another.
20. a fresh set of clothing.
21. a balance of money that is returned when the sum tendered in payment is larger than the sum due.
22. Obsolete. changefulness; caprice.
23. change one's mind, to change one's opinions or intentions.
What's there to be afraid of?
"Aww...Change is gonna do me good"
PM
Well until Sufjan Stevens, who is one of my personal now favorites, does his Georgia album, we've still got Decatur from the classic, Come On Feel The Illinoise album. If you've never heard this native Wolverine's Spirit-filled musings, treat yourself sometime.
youtube.com/watch?v=DpdL2DLshf4
Anon,
Rather than rest being the fulfillment or end of this state of ecstatic love in which the author speaks, if that's what your question implied; although a possibility, it would seem to me this rest would rather be referring and applied to an aspect of the approach we take in stretching towards this holy union. In opposition to striving with knowledge alone as an obstacle to. Knowledge of self, of tradition, of religion and preconceptions, even of and maybe most importantly of God Herself. ;)
I imagine in this state described, Love could not be boxed into one expression or state such as rest, for God Himself has no such single bounds to His being, God is Spirit and God is Love. It seems Christ's Passion was truly the ultimate apex of this love and I don't know if we can say whether rest had any portion of that great expression. But thanks be to God we died their with Him, and also jointly partake in His resurrection even on today, this day! The veil has been rent in two and we can boldly approach the throne of grace; reaching out in blind naked love towards the One who now reaches out towards us. A most definite change to the "Big Box, I command you, Jesus Store" many Christians have been taught to "dial up" in this age. The age is changing. You and I are are bringing about that change as the Christ rises in us.
That's my thoughts on it. Do you feel that, or have another way of looking at it, or thoughts to add? This is a fascinating thing to me. The reality of a living resurrected life on this earth, now. Christ living through us, a vessel of healing and ecstatic love, a co-union and co-creation in the ministry of conciliation. Draw me there Lord! Draw us there.
"I realize that enlightenment is but a recognition"
Yes I see that, Anon @ 7:18. May today a great multitude of souls be born again, and many, many more be born again, again. May each and every day we avail ourselves to change, allowing the Holy Ghost to enlighten our minds, and hearts, and lives. May we freshly and vividly recognize each new circadian revelation in this present Resurrection Life!
Anon @ 7:18,
Very beautifully stated. Paragraph 2, especially.
We are presently entering into the greatest phase of consciousness evolution in the history of humanity. The circles of the spiral dynamic are turning faster and becoming closer. Changes in information, technology, consciousness, and spirituality, that once took years to phase in are now happening in mere days.
Actually, "shift" may be a better term than "change".
Which ever term you prefer, mankind need to prepare and ready themselves for the accelerated movement towards our "evolutionary destiny". A movement into a world of interdependence and collaboration. Of unity and peace. Of service and compassion.
That is our evolutionary destiny and that is the shift that is now taking place.
Peace,
PM
I'm really feeling the flow of this Blog right now. Let us take this change, this shift, this Blast! And allow it to reach into each and every part of our lives. From the way we love and perceive ourselves, to the way we now come to know and experience our ever-loving, more than enough, unto all mankind, perfectly sovereign Holy God; spread outward in conciliatory loving contribution unto all the earth. Preaching this resurrection by the One, yet even of all, and unto all. This shift in perception is spreading into all culture and the cities of all nations. Jehova Omega is orchestrating divine appointments and sweeping revolutions of consciousness. For not all knowledge is unprofitable. Everything and everyone have their present part. Revelation knowledge is being dispensed unto those with ears to hear, those who are carrying this true evangel which the angel of the Lord declared was unto all men. May the spark of curiosity and strong inquiry arrest each spirit who hears our God's word of love. May God deliver them into inspired recognition of His goodness and forgiving mercy. Prepare them even this day with Spirit dreams of revelation in the night season. Jesus we give you praise in these things. You are the Great God, who is abundantly able to present all mankind spotless, in perfect completion. All, which is everything that Father has placed into your hands. No heart is outside of your draw and longing. Glory be unto your holy, holy, holy name Great Hound of Heaven! You are the resurrection and the life. You are alive in me. You are alive in Church of the Now and Paradox. You are alive unto all men.
Remember actually learning how to type on a manual typewriter? Those long keystrokes needed to make a word? And the ribbon getting messed up? And correction fluid? And lining it back up to type over it?
Talk about change!
It's not being afraid of change that is the concern, it's the is it veering away from the truth. Is it addition or subtraction
from the core, by self acclaimed theologians. Spirit filled? More than likely yes. Spirit led? I wonder. Spirit truth? That's the big one.
I was just doing a little Bible study on the word Rest. While looking in both books of 1st and 2nd Kings I found an interesting pattern in Scripture. Look how many times, when death was at hand (and this can take a symbolic meaning of the death in our flesh we are faced with in this life) at these times of death, the king is referenced to be resting with his fathers. When we do rest in the presence of God, resting with ourselves and putting to rest our own striving and attempts to be "good enough" or any other false impression we have of our own strength. It is in these times of union and rest with the Father we find death. We also see a crowning of a new king in these scriptures. Could this signify the reign of "The King" who has been birthed into our lives? What a true change when we die, allowing The King takes the seat in our throne.
This list is not complete, but drives home the idea.
2 Kings 14:16
Jehoash rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. And Jeroboam his son succeeded him as king.
2 Kings 13:13
Jehoash rested with his fathers, and Jeroboam succeeded him on the throne. Jehoash was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel.
2 Kings 13:9
Jehoahaz rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And Jehoash his son succeeded him as king.
2 Kings 10:35
Jehu rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And Jehoahaz his son succeeded him as king.
2 Kings 8:24
Jehoram rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David. And Ahaziah his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 22:50
Then Jehoshaphat rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of David his father. And Jehoram his son succeeded him.
1 Kings 22:40
Ahab rested with his fathers. And Ahaziah his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 16:28
Omri rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And Ahab his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 15:24
Then Asa rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of his father David. And Jehoshaphat his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 15:8
And Abijah rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. And Asa his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 14:31
And Rehoboam rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David. His mother's name was Naamah; she was an Ammonite. And Abijah his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 14:20
He reigned for twenty-two years and then rested with his fathers. And Nadab his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 11:43
Then he rested with his fathers and was buried in the city of David his father. And Rehoboam his son succeeded him as king.
1 Kings 11:21
While he was in Egypt, Hadad heard that David rested with his fathers and that Joab the commander of the army was also dead. Then Hadad said to Pharaoh, "Let me go, that I may return to my own country."
1 Kings 2:10
Then David rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.
Hmm, maybe?
A high school friend joined a cloud of witnesses at 12:08 am after a crappy battle with cancer. He is much loved in this community and will be greatly missed. R.I.P. Jeff Blount. Please keep his family in your prayers, Tina, Drew,Matt,Megan, his parents and a multitude of family and friends.
I liked that bible study about rest...the death so that another king could take his place.
Come unto me, all you who labor and I will give you rest. A change occurs here...we clock out from our work...change our work clothes in for our resting clothes.
Hi Bishop, just checking in...present and accounted for...baah!
Have a great day of shepherding. We will follow you, unafraid, while changing into new pastures.
In the words of David Bowie;
ch,ch,ch,ch,changes...
Let Your priests be clothed with righteousness, And let Your godly ones sing for joy.
Psalm 132:9 (NAS)
All you praying ones today, remember Texas and all those effected by this "Ike". I just saw some satellite photos, and this thing is massive. It's taking up the whole of the entire gulf of Mexico.
Isaiah 25:4 (NAS)
For You have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat
That Decatur talk got me on a Sufjan Stevens kick this morning. What a beautiful song this is. Such a heart of love between The Redeemer and His redeemed.
For the Widows in Paradise, for the Fatherless in Ypsilanti
"Is there some idea to replace my life?"
youtube.com/watch?v=CVZcAzXWciQ&feature=re
I've have called you children
I have called you son
What is there to answer
If I'm the only one
Morning comes in Paradise
Morning comes in light
Still I must obey
Still I must invite
If there's anything to say
If there's anything to do
I there's any other way
I'd do anything for you
I was dressed in embarassment
I was dressed in white
If you had a part of me
Will you take your time
Even if I come back
Even if I die
Is there some idea
To replace my life
Like a father to impress
Like a mother's mourning dress
If we ever make a mess
I'll do anything for you
I have called you preacher
I have called you son
If you have a father
Or if you haven't one
I'll do anything for you
I'll do anything for you
I'll do anything for you
I'll do anything for you
I'll do anything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
I did everything for you
What a beautiful and inspiring acapella version these girls sing as well.
youtube.com/watch?v=3qge_0w5tdo&feature=re
Hey every-1!! Me afraid of change???..umm no, bring IT ON!!
Reminds me of a caterpillar that turns into something beautiful!! Does the butterfly stay inside and get depressed from the new change...nope!! It flys for something else new.
So, I am ready to fly with ya!!
~L.W.~I am ready for the BLAST : )
Where He leads me, I will follow.
Change, as it is the case for me and my house, has created the most joyful of memories that I have in store.
There is no fear that comes with change when it is recieved as an inevitability of life.
Every reaction to change is just another stroke of the brush in my portrait of who I say that God is. It is also an opportunity for me to write yet another book in the bible of me.
JB
IN HIM I LIVE AND MOVE AND HAVE MY BEING
I was moving stuff around in the attic today and found a manilla envelope with unused carbon paper in it.
Where is a good Underwood when you need one?
My world has been crazy for the past few weeks, days, seconds, whatever. Some may have meant it for harm but God meant it for good……..
Talk about change....
Wow, what a difference a day makes. A day in the kingdom of God is like a dream come true. What a difference a prayer makes. Constant communication with God crumbles strongholds and calms the calamitous seas of the world.
Two days ago I was expecting the best news I has heard in months. I was totally confident that, that was what I would hear. But what I heard Wednesday morning totally shocked me into starry eyed stupor of despair. The decision I got was the last thing I thought I would hear that day. My situation seemed hopeless. Everyone involves was shocked and dismayed from the secretaries to all the bosses in the Arkansas state district where I worked. No one had ever heard of the Arkansas state Hwy. & Trans. Dept. AHTD ever turn anyone away from disability retirement when a “one” Doctor had declared them unable to return to work. But that was what I heard that morning…DENIED! I couldn’t believe what I was hearing no one else could either. And I not only had my family Dr of 15 years who is not just a MD but very well known around here his father is actually the administrator of the largest hospital in NE Arkansas. I also had a very well respected surgeon advising me and my workplace that I should not return to work. When I was released from my surgeon about 3 weeks ago my workers compensation checks stopped so I was really counting on this to come through. The situation seemed quite bleak. I asked the Lord why this was happening to me and He said because if it had went well it would not build my faith in Him or be a witness for Him. So I guess He just wanted me to trust Him so He could show out a little bit. So I in turn could tell others of how awesome He is; as I am doing now.
But then something else that was unheard of happened. The state retirement board and their doctor said that if I could get some certain information from my surgeon they would have a special meeting the next day “just for me” to look at it again; otherwise it would be December before they would meet again. Well as my boss said this also was unheard of, if you were turned down you just had to wait until the next meeting. Seems they did not get all the surgeons pre-op and post-op notes in the paperwork that was mailed to them. Well it has been my experience that getting anything from her office (my surgeon) usually takes days if not over a week. Problem……they wanted it that day so they could meet the next day. To not make this too long “BY THE GRACE AND FAVOR OF GOD” I will just say that before 3:00 pm that day I faxed the papers to their office.
The next day I got up and started my day in quiet time and prayer as I usually do but at the end of a prayer I said something that “just came out of my mouth” that I really cant remember ever saying before in a prayer. I ended the prayer by saying “show yourself strong on my behalf Lord” and when I said it a peace came over me.
Then looked in the “Year in The Now” devotional and here is what God said through the Bishop:
September 11
"The name of the Lord is a STRONG TOWER;
the righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10)
Today I will live in the now! I will live in the now because I have the confident assurance that God is my refuge and strength – a very present help in time of trouble! His name is my fortress and protection . . . I will not fear . . . what can man do to me? I dwell in the secret place of the Most High and, therefore, I remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty today, knowing that no foe can withstand Him! He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Today I will walk in perfect peace – the peace produced by possessing the promise that God is personally watching over His Word to perform it in my behalf – preserving and protecting me in the private pavilion of the power of His name!
Today I will boldly decree and declare that no weapon formed against me can prosper, and that every tongue that rises against me today will be shown to be in the wrong (Isaiah 54:17)!
Today I will be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might – strengthened with might by His spirit in the inner man. The joy of the Lord is my strength. The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life — of whom then shall I be afraid? Let the weak say I am strong (Joel 3:10), so in all of my weaknesses today, I say that God is my strength, and I am strong in Him!
Today I will rejoice in my righteousness, for the righteous run into God's tower and find real safety.
Today I will be kept free from all harm – spiritually, emotionally and physically. The angel of the Lord encamps around me – the angels bear me up in their hands, so that I do not injure my foot (my path of destiny) against a stone (of crisis, calamity or consequences of the curse).
Today I will enjoy the view from atop the strong tower of the Lord, and today I will live in the now!
I said Wow what a confirmation! I began reading it over and over and such faith was building up in me that completely lost all fear and anxiousness over the situation ”I KNEW” it was going to be OK. I just started to pray in tongues and praise the Lord for what He was going to do! The board and the doctor met at 9:00 am and when the doctor looked at the papers he approved it in 5 min. flat!
At the same time these last few weeks I had been going through quite a misunderstanding with the workers compensation people also about my not returning to work causing us to not be able to reach a normal settlement for this type of injury (I was not suing them). Actually because of some false accusations that were made be a nurse that was working for another company that handles some of their more serious cases. Truth be known this nurse and I did not hit it off well at the very first because in our first conversation my belief and websites came into the conversation. After a few days I received quite a sharp email from her office about my site and my belief; which I sent a quite lengthy reply; which I have yet to receive an answer (that was 8 months ago). Anyway our relationship went down hill from there and she tried to cause me all the trouble she could. Even though we had this sharp tension among us I was always nice and polite with her which I think irritated her even more. But as the verse quoted in AYTN says Today I will boldly decree and declare that no weapon formed against me can prosper, and that every tongue that rises against me today will be shown to be in the wrong (Isaiah 54:17)! I did just that and before the day was over I was on the phone with the workers compensation people who had discovered this fallacious representation and we came to a reasonable agreement which just has to be drawn up by the legal dept. and signed be the judge. Which may take a while but at least it is settled, thank God!
I have one more battle with this thing that is about to begin as ”GOD HAS SHOWN HIMSELF STRONG ON MY BEHALF” in all of this he will be with me through the rest.
God is working out His purpose for my life and with AYTN I declare I will be kept free from all harm – spiritually, emotionally and physically. The angel of the Lord encamps around me – the angels bear me up in their hands, so that I do not injure my foot (my path of destiny) against a stone (of crisis, calamity or consequences of the curse).
Life is full of excitement and wonderful under the umbrella of God’s Grace and Favor; walking in His Kingdom!
Sorry so long, but I just had to let it out…….
Peace,
Dennis
Hey Donald,
thanks for the comment, I guess my last post answered your question.
thanks.....
Show yourself strong on my behalf too... Prayed the same prayer Pastor Dennis and He did. Asked God this week "where are you...just show me your hand in what is going on" and out of the mouth of a four year old....The clouds are in the sky and you can't see Him, the stars are in the sky and you can't see Him...the Earth is constantly spinning and you can't see that either, doesn't mean it isn't happening...smart kid.
Anon @ 7:18 ...
Pm...
SOZ...
Here is an interesting video that I think could go along with this "phase of consciousness evolution in the history of humanity" we are experiencing. It at least made me think......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxJIrDxSpIg&feature=related
here is another really good one just about angels.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD8yWqZK6lM
Peace,
Dennis
Wow Tracy, "Prayed the same prayer " God does move among us. And yes that is a very enlightend four year old!
I truly believe that change comes nevertheless and one either adapts to it or gets overtaken by it. I believe that when change is necessary, not to change can be destructive.
So many people in this country are stuck to old ideologies and habits, i.e. traditions that are old and stale and stink like an old fish wrapped in paper. Rather than adapt to change, not only in own lives but also in the world around us, most think it is easier to allow things to remain the same. The problem is nothing ever remains the same, everything is always evolving and changing.
I do understand that preception is a powerful thing and to break a habit it takes at least 30 days. However, I do think this is the time that each one of us is being pushed to "examine ourselves" and evaluate where our preception was conceived, and discard thinking that has no real honorable foundation and is not based in love.
To me, True Change in Preception comes when you begin to sincerely utter "Lord, Let your will be done". This way when change comes you automatically train yourself to know his will is being done and ask him to deal with you concerning things which may be hard to accept. I also believe if your motives are anchored in Love, you will never be that far off base in your preception for God "will perfect the things that concern you" and make your transistions in life a whole lot easier.
Thanks, NTL. I haven’t seen the new DHS stadium, but I’ve heard about it. Man, I ran a lot of stadium steps in the old one when I ran track, and marched a lot of half-time shows on that field when I was in the band (the old field is believed to be the first on a Georgia high school campus to stage a lighted game in 1930…built in 1940, it had been metro Atlanta’s oldest).
Anyway, everything changes. I think the first game in the new one is next Friday night. Maybe I'll go if I have all my stuff ready for Uganda.
I just found out that “Bones” from Star Trek was a DHS alumnus (a little before my time)…
Go DHS bulldogs!
Pastor D,
Hauntingly beautiful videos. What sayings and admonitions in the second one. It really gives me a clearer insight into the place of help and comfort angels must play in our existence.
Thank You, Thank You
Hello Everybody,
Hey Cloudation, you spoke so well, the conclusion is very pleasant.
Experiencing is such a deep understanding, it includes perception, sensation, the actual evolution and transformation from where one was to where one is –and immediately sets the prospect for more experience. I can watch a flower bloom, but when I bloom, I understand the flower. I can enjoy a tree’s shade, but when I provide shade, I understand that part of the tree. It is Love that is the core of vulnerable, fully open experience. We trust in Love, We Trust God, so we enter into the experience with God without barrier, filter or judgment, with all of our faculties, simply to be with and as God is, as we trust.
Peace.
Hello,
Face Value – Lawful AND Expedient
In our lives, our daily experience, the people we interact with regularly, have the most impact on our experience - Our parents, siblings, children, spouses (and/or ex-spouses) , co-workers, bosses, employees, friends.
All of these people can say or do things that we interpret as diminishing to us, especially in the realm of ‘I know they meant ….. ‘ by their words or actions, even if they were not overtly said – ‘reading between the lines’ is the axiom. What seems confusing to me that often when we assume what someone meant, it is often as something diminishing or something we perceive as negative. For one thing, it is a whole lot more enjoyable to assume they meant something even better than what was said. The point is that when we assume or ‘know’ what ‘they’ really meant, it is all us doing the ‘knowing’. What ‘they’ really meant could equally be negative or positive. Especially those we perceive as adversaries. Why even bother with the negative aspect, how does that help us? - That really is another direction.
When those we are regularly involved with give us a perceived slight, we can always ask them what they meant, and if the meant the slight we perceive. Almost always they say they did not. That is where face value has so much benefit. It is lawful to disbelieve them, but not expedient.
I know for me, in certain moments I may have made a sarcastic remark, or sideways compliment that could be cutting. In those moments I was dealing with my own fear, aggravation, buttons pushed, etc. Later, after that passes, if asked, I really do not believe what I felt at the moment. So, I want to change it, focus on what I know in general, outside of the spike. Many of us are similar. So, if someone really believed as part of who they are what might have been intended or perceived at the moment, they would say – ‘yes, that is what I meant’ . Mostly, that is not the case, and there is every likelihood what we thought they meant was only our own filters and imagination – being , ‘That is what I would have meant, so it must be what they meant’. Which of course has nothing or little to do with them, and everything, or mostly what has to do with ourselves.
Bottom line – it is lawful and oh so expedient to take what people say, especially if asked to clarify, at face value. The same for what people believe, we all express, and all want to be taken and do best to receive at face value. Anything after that is expressing our perceptions and judgments upon others.
Discernment is about knowing each other by the Spirit, which always is understanding and love, to see each other through that with real understanding that is based in truth and love. Discernment is not seeing how someone really meant to slight us when they said or did ‘X’ . In that vein, discernment would be to see how they really blessed us in the big picture. Since we know, I they are truly our enemy, or adversary, whatever they do intentionally to diminish us is turned to benefit by God, as is anything we may ever do as an enemy or adversary to others. God blesses us all the same. I love That !!!!
wise words...
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