“Christianity is simply God reaching out (to mankind) and seeking us.”

“Christianity is simply God reaching out (to mankind)  and seeking us.”

 

“Jesus makes God real to me.”

From Seeds of Hate to the Bonds of Love

From Seeds of Hate to the Bonds of Love

A “Review” of the Book ‘Once An Arafat Man’ by Tass Saada

What are Some Key Similarities between Christianity and Islam?

What are Some Key Similarities between Christianity and Islam?

“Whilst we can (and should) celebrate our differences, our unique cultures, let not our different beliefs set us apart as human beings, but rather let our shared humanity be what defines and unites us as common citizens of our planet.”

– me

“Peace. it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. it means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.”

– author unknown

 

“Instead of the limits of borders (of countries and of our minds) let us and our leaders expand our sense of possibility… and together let’s look at building bridges to distant horizons, far and great. Lord, help us all lift our eyes a little higher.”
– craig

 

“Whilst we can celebrate our differences, let not our varying beliefs divide us, but let the Spirit of our shared humanity define and unite us.”

“Whilst we can celebrate our differences, let not our varying beliefs divide us, but let the Spirit of our shared humanity define and unite us.”

– me

from http://www.jesusmeetsmuhammad.wordpress.com

Living Truth: Experiencing Christ in you

Living Truth: Experiencing Christ in you

An inspiring ministry of Charles Price

For a great message, click on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvGhQf-cHBg

Religious guidance as relevant now as it has ever been

Religious guidance as relevant now as it has ever been: Gehan Gunasekara

From http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10869406

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By Gehan Gunasekara

5:30 AM Wednesday Mar 6, 2013

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Those within the church are as likely to be divided over same-sex marriage as those in secular society. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Sam Clements’ article on these pages entitled “Irrelevant churches have no right to dictate what happens in a secular society” belittles the role of religion, not only in the context of the debate over legalising same-sex marriage, but in society generally. He argues that “educated, enlightened and humanly progressive societies” have no need of the churches’ moral teachings. He also tars all Christians with the same brush, arguing that “the church grooms its victim to accept its claims of moral ascendancy and to unquestioningly accept its authority, and that of its leaders.”

Both arguments are way off the mark. The church I attend actually supports same-sex marriage. Furthermore, it encourages dissent from established dogma (after all most of Jesus’ teachings were aimed at discrediting and ridiculing the Jewish religious leadership of the time) and independent and critical thinking on doctrinal issues. The Christians I know are deeply involved in the social issues that concern us such as income inequality, child abuse and human rights abuses here and overseas. It is their faith that moves them to be involved with these matters.

Moreover, we may now be a secular society but the values that underpin it, our moral compass, is almost entirely a result of the influence of religion on Western civilisation. Much of our criminal law is based on the Ten Commandments: “Thou shalt not kill”, “Thou shalt not steal” etc. Besides, many more of its injunctions are cogent reminders of where we have gone astray as a society due to a lack of values to guide us.

For example, many of the commandments contain the sanction not to covet. This word essentially encompasses human desire for various items, most notably material possessions. All the worlds’ great religions have advice concerning excessive materialism or attachment for possessions.

New Zealand’s current economic predicament is largely a natural consequence of the latter as our indebtedness as a nation stems from our desire for amassing items whether they are houses, flat screen televisions or the latest iPhone.

Likewise, Jesus’s admonition to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” would well serve corporate CEOs as they lay off hundreds of workers while they themselves receive bonuses.

Secularism flourishes because most of Christian teaching (and the teaching of other religions) is completely at odds with unrestrained capitalism.

Yet an earlier generation of New Zealand’s leaders, notably the Liberals and Labour politicians who founded our welfare state and made us the envy of the rest of the world, based their actions solidly on their religious convictions, although they did not impose their religious views on others. Today’s largely atheist generation of leaders lack this grounding and their policies suffer as a result. People nowadays simply accept the status quo simply because there are fewer influences – such as sermons from the pulpit – railing against it.

Clements also argues that modern scientific knowledge and discovery eliminates the need for religious teaching. Nothing could be further from the truth. All our new-found scientific expertise has not necessarily yielded wisdom on how to deal with problems as diverse as global warming and income inequality. These are moral or ethical issues squarely within the domain of religious teaching and the secular world ignores their tenets at its peril.

When it comes to issues such as same-sex marriage, no one ought to have a monopoly on determining what is legitimate. However, on these and other social issues the church is as entitled as anyone else to express its opinion and Christians are likely to be as divided over these issues as society is at large.

Gehan Gunasekara is an associate professor in commercial law at the University of Auckland and a parishioner of St Matthews-in-the-City.

By Gehan Gunasekara

From: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10869406

What do YOU think??

A “Book Review”: ‘THE THIRD JESUS’ (by Dr Deepak Chopra) — Part Three

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article Title: A “Book Review“: ‘THE THIRD JESUS’ (by Dr Deepak Chopra) — Part Three

Submitted by Craig Lock

Key words: Deepak Chopra, Jesus, Jesus Christ, books, “The Third Jesus”, spirituality, spiritual growth, enlightenment, inspiration, empowerment, self help, self realisation (enough there for now, craig)

Web sites: www.deepakchopra.com and www.rbooks.co.uk

Submitter’s web sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://goo.gl/vTpjk

http://www.creativekiwis.com/index.php/craigs-booksand http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com.

www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.comwww.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com http://religiousunity.wordpress.comwww.peacepursuit.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

(obsessive or WHAT!)

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig)

Publishing Guidelines:

I’m sharing these these thoughts, these writings by Dr Deepak Chopra with the world in a ‘spirit of enlightenment‘) ; so this article (as with all my articles) may be published, electronically or in print (with acknowledgment to the author, thanks).

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

*

Sharing some Thoughts (Spiritual) on Jesus from ‘The Third Jesus’ by Deepak Chopra

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” – Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Submitters’s Note:

Craig is studying the teachings of different religions, as he researches and writes his latest novels ‘A New Dawn’ and ‘From Seeds of Hate to the Bonds of Love’, which are set in the Middle East and his latest “labour of love” ‘ The Real, The True Jesus . . . the One That I Really Know and Love!)‘. This article (in point form) was based on notes and some short extracts I’ve taken directly from Dr Deepak Chopra’s fascinating and thought-provoking new book, ‘The Third Jesus’, whilst studying the link between the human mind and spirituality. As I take notes, contemplate and share these most revealing thoughts from Dr Chopra, I learn more about my own spiritual journey. So am sharing this piece from Part One ( “a great enlightening read”) in the spirit of hopefully stimulating thinking and discussion on the life and mission of Jesus from Chopra’s writings and beliefs along the ‘spiritual journey’ (no matter whether you fully agree with Dr Chopra’s views on Jesus or not) .

I have added a few of my own thoughts (in italics). I recommend that you read this book, if you are interested in spiritual (or “airey-fairey” as my very “down-to-earth”, practical friends call this subject matter) matters. (Incidentally, I do ‘try to test’, further explore and apply these principles in ‘real life’ and they DO work). Hope sharing this short extract, these ‘eternal truths’ from an excellent book may be of interest, uplifting . . . and perhaps even inspirational to you too. Enjoy “THE WORD” . . .

* *

‘THE THIRD JESUS’ by Deepak Chopra:

How to Find Truth and Love in Today’s World Published in the UK in 2008 by Rider, an imprint of Ebury Publishing

www.rbooks.co.uk and www.deepakchopra.com

Karma – the principle of Reaping and Sowing “As you sow, so shall you reap.” Karma is important on the spiritual path, and knowing how to act and why (ie. intent) is important in all religions. Good actions advance spiritual growth.

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”

– John Wesley

Karma gives back exactly what you deserve, but God doesn’t. He gives without regard to good and evil . . . and that is a mark of grace (God’s Infinite Grace). Live by grace. Judge Not ‘

Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get.’ (Matthew 7: 1-2)

Generosity of spirit (as with Nelson Mandela) is rewarded in kind,, eventually. Spiritual truths can’t be restricted by time and place. The ability to receive any spiritual teaching depends on your level of awareness. All the violence in Jesus’s life served the purpose of a higher teaching, that physical life, even at its most cruel, can be transcended.

‘For to those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance.’ (Matthew 13:12)

Connect to the Source. ‘I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower.’ (John 15:1-5) The sap that nourishes the vine and causes it to bear fruit is God, the Source of Life. Jesus wanted to share the unity he experienced with God, the “Ground of All Being” and therefore he often used the phrase ‘abide in me’. Spirit is eternal.

*

UNITY

The essence of Jesus was his complete unity with God (ie. his will was in complete alignment with His Father’s will – in an attitude of total submission). The mystical Jesus was describing his essence and ours at the same time. This essence (our humanity) is a speck of God, the soul substance inside everyone that never became seperated from its source (both his and ours). ‘I am Spirit’, He said to them, ‘You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world.’ (John 8:23) (“Spaced-out”!??)

I am Eternal Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.’ (My comment: Aren’t we all part of God’s greater plan, especially when we surrender our wills to God’s “higher” purpose). The broader meaning is that spirit surpasses any organized religion. My Purpose is to Fulfil: ‘Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish, but to fulfil.’ Jesus existed for his followers in a state of consciousness beyond the five senses and the thinking mind. (He continually drew on a Higher Power than himself, God, the Father…to do what he could not do himself!). All Authority is Mine And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me’. (Matthew 28:18) I am the Way Jesus said to him: ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me. (i have often pondered that one and think I have a ‘revelation’!). If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.’ (John 14: 6-7) (I understand the concept of God, the Father and the ‘invitation’ to enter into a “personal living relationship” with the Ultimate Source, of all the religions is unique to Christianity) Jesus acts not alone, but as a vehicle of God’s will. God causes things to happen through Him. His union with God was immediate, personal and direct. (My little comment: God, Great (Infinite) Spirit “works” through ‘ordinary’ (what’s that!) people and like Jesus, God’s presence and Infinite Grace is often revealed through the thoughts, “small” actions and deeds of “common, humble, yet great spirited” human beings. I suppose the key is getting “our will perfectly in line with God’s will!” . . . but HOW . I’ll contemplate that one). An afterthought . . . Yet we can ALL can be channels, instruments of God’s will , if we so choose and allow to unfold (getting into another deeper/higher dimension, a higher consciousness of living, perhaps??! As I write and express my thoughts, it’s all becoming clearer.. much!

*

WHO IS THE REAL JESUS? The mystical argument: The real Jesus was never physical — he is the Holy Spirit (???). Jesus becomes something abstract and invisible, the Word that was never born and will never die.

”When you go to church, you already take God, with you, Infinite Spirit (Holy??) already in you.”

– my good friend Lindsay (“The Prophet”)

“My church, mosque, synagogue, and/or temple lies (stands) in my own heart (and mind)“.

– craig

So God, Ultimate Source, Ground of All Being doesn’t reside exclusively in a building – that’s a symbol and gathering place for people, fellow believers!

Spirituality is about truths (eternal) that cannot be understood from a strictly rational perspective. Because the Holy Spirit is transcendant, Jesus must be found not on earth, but in the Kingdom of God. (a ‘fact of the soul’). Through him, Spirit is realised; so that he brings God-consciousness down to earth by being its living exemplar. Spirit exists to serve, and since we are all spirit, our life should be dedicated to service. When you serve others, you are servant and master to yourself . . . and this state of Higher Consciousness is real and open to ALL of us.”

Dr Deepak Chopra www.deepakchopra.com and www.rbooks.co.uk

In summary . . . The authentic message regarding the words, deeds, and teachings of Jesus are as relevant and useful today as ever. In essence they are:

* Give to anyone who asks; knowledge and righteousness are revealed in action

* Beware those who claim to speak on behalf of God; first, know yourself .

“To thine own self be true.” (thanks dearest mom)

* Find the light inside, and share this light with the world

These writings are an attempt to let Jesus speak for himself . . . and I hope, I trust, that the “spiritual Jesus”, the “Third Jesus”, “The Real Jesus” shines through his words . . . so that you may feel his “sublime presence”, through his Infinite Spirit and Grace . . . TODAY

Shared (with thanks) by “not so goody-goody airey fairey spiritual” Craig Lock (“Information and Inspiration Distributor, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

Your beliefs become your thoughts,

Your thoughts become your words,

Your words become your actions,

Your actions become your habits, Y

our habits become your values, Your values become your destiny.”

– Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi

“We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make our world.”

– the Buddha

 

So, like Jesus did, “tink da haaiest torts” (think the highest thoughts).

“People fight and die for religion but they seldom live for religion.”

– former Indian Prime Minister, Jahrulal Nehru

“Deep within us there is a flame that burns, and that flame is the spark of God. In some it burns brightly, in others it is barely distinguishable; but always it burns . . . and with love and acceptance the flame gets higher and brighter. We can help others to kindle this flame by seeing the good in them, even if they don’t see it themselves.”

– anon

.My brief) comment on Nehru’s quote above: Following the teachings of Jesus Christ (and Christianity) is NOT religion. but simply applying the eternal principles of psychology as well as (and blended in with) spirituality) in a “personal living relationship”.

“Let your light so shine that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matt 5:16)

“You are the light of the world; a city cannot be hidden, if it is built on a mountain top. A lamp is not lighted to be put away under a bushel measure; it is put on the lamp stand, to give light to all the people of the house; and your light must shine so brightly before men.” (Matt 5,14-16. Knox).

“Let the light of your BEING shine brightly; so revealing Who You Really Are. Be a Bringer of the Light, which emanates from our soul, God, our Creator, the Source, the Essence of Life (and Ground of our very Being). Therefore, it can do more than illuminate your own path. YOUR spirit will help makes the lives of others easier by illuminating others paths. For this light is our humanity, the spirit of God, truth, wisdom, beauty and especially love . . . and it lies within each one of us. Through your actions and your being, let your light, YOUR spirit truly shine brightly on the world, like the radiance emitted by a candle at midnight.”

– craig (as adapted from and inspired by Neale Donald Walsh in ‘Conversations with God Book 3?).

About the submitter:

In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives. Craig believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being.

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” (including ‘The Awakened Spirit’ and ‘From Seeds of Hate to the Bonds of Love’) are available at:

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://goo.gl/vTpjk

http://www.creativekiwis.com/index.php/craigs-books +http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

He is presently “working on/finishing off” his latest novels ‘The Awakened Spirit’ and ‘From Seeds of Hate to the Bonds of Love’, based on some true and inspiring stories of the unquenchable, the indomitable human spirit, that lies within each one of us. Stories of ‘Endless Possibilities, Far and Unlimited (Grand) Horizons’

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com.

www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.comwww.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com http://religiousunity.wordpress.comwww.peacepursuit.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

(obsessive or WHAT!)

“The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstore”

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.

We ask ourselves, ‘who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’

Actually, who are you not to be?

You are a child of God.

Your playing small does not serve the world.

There is nothing enlightened about shrinking; so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.

We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone.

And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.

As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

– Marianne Williamson I love these words from Marianne Williamson as used by Nelson Mandela in his inaugeration speech as State President at South Africa’s first Democratic Election in 1994.

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, encourage, empower, uplift and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials. Change YOUR world and you help change THE world . . . for the better.”

End of Part Three (Part Four to follow)

THIS PIECE MAY BE PUBLISHED (with acknowledgment to Dr Deepak Chopra, please)

PPS As John Shelby Spong, former Archbishop of Newark (very controversial in the Christian world) wrote in his book ‘Jesus for the Non Religious’ :

“The real Jesus is the figure needs today to lead it back to the ‘God experience’ on which Christianity was originally built.”

 

“God is a mystery, the ‘mystery of life’, a Creative Presence, Who/That allows me to be who I really want to be and become.”

“God, the Essence of Life, is the great mystery in the vast unknown; yet He (??) is understandable.”

Shine YOUR own bright light on humanity

What Each ONE of Us Can Learn From the Character and Life of Jesus

Article Title: What Each ONE of Us Can Learn From the Character and Life of Jesus
Submitted by craig

Shine your own bright light on humanity
Picture: Paddleboard Nelson by Gemma Chapman
Credit: House of Travel in scenic and tranquil “little” New Zealand

Key Words: Christianity, Jesus, Jesus Christ, faith, inspiration, empowerment
Web sites: http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.htmlhttp://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 (Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig!)

Publishing Guidelines:

These writings (as with all my articles) may be freely published, electronically or in print.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”
*
WHAT CAN EACH ONE OF US LEARN FROM THE CHARACTER AND LIFE OF JESUS
Here are some traits/points/characteristics on the “person”, that was/is Jesus that I’ve collected, as I’ve studied his life. No matter whether you believe or not (and no matter how “secularly” you may think), I hope these qualities may be helpful. Perhaps even inspirational to you too…
in your work and in your life.

The unique character (and spirit) of Jesus:

Jesus’s:
* Compassion for his fellow man (and especially those in difficulty, facing hardships)
* Supreme Love for humanity
* Kindness and compassion
* Selflessness (and unselfishness)
* Strength (he was definitely not weak, nor timid, as many people believe, through teaching ‘turning the other cheek’ to mistreatment)
* Honesty (was totally honest, truthful with people, yet kind)
* Sincerity (absolute integrity)
* Spirit of FORGIVENESS

“When you forgive (another person or country), you empty your mind of negative thoughts (perhaps even thoughts as strong as hate). Then the infinite Spirit of God makes a fresh space in our hearts to allow new positive feelings to take their place.. to pour into our hearts. The ‘freed’ person then moves forward with a new spirit…which takes root in people’s minds, hearts, spirits and even in the deepest recesses of their souls.”
craig

* Firmness (when required – as in overturning the tables at the money-changers in the temple)
NB

* Faith (Trust in God): Jesus often prayed to God, the Father asking Him for help to accomplish what he couldn’t do on his own (something each one of us can apply in our own ‘little’ lives, as one of us have access to the Ultimate Source, when things get too tough for us to handle on our own)
* Security in his beliefs and himself, no matter what others thought.
* Optimism (he was the greatest “Possibility Thinker” who ever lived!)
* Reasonableness
* Lack of judgement: Jesus accepted people as they were and chose to be, yet continually encouraged others to be all they could BECOME.
* Charisma (and poise)
* Originality (his creativity)
* Mastery of communication – (the “KISS” principle – getting his message across in a simple, yet creative way through telling parables).
* Enthusiasm
* Passion (for God, “the Father”, fellow man and especially the truth).
* Breadth and clarity of vision (which gives power). Jesus Christ had a vision of God and a ‘grand vision of man’ which set the nation and the world on fire.
* Honesty (absolute): “You shall know the truth…and the truth shall set you free.”
* Virtuousness: he was the only man, who ever lived who was without sin.
*
He:
* Liked having fun (had a good sense of humour – not like so many “goody goody two shoes straight churchies” – NO JUDGING now, craig!)
* Treated all people equally and with the dignity they deserved (women, as well as men), no matter how lowly a person’s station in life
* Was attractive and ‘manly’ – a very good-looking, masculine man!
* Developed good habits, like rising early
and set aside time for prayer, contemplation and meditation
* Rested and removed himself from situations, when he got exhausted.
* Thought the highest thoughts – always expecting the best in others.
* Tested his own limits (as a human being living on earth), but believed in the “seemingly impossible”. “

What with man was impossible , but THROUGH God, The Father ALL things are possible.”

#
He was:
* Never a ‘bore’
* Always true to himself and his highest values (ie. living a life of absolute integrity)
* A great encourager (supporter) of people
* A “free spirit”, his “own man”
* Self-reliant for his own motivation…
yet he enlisted the co-operation of others to achieve worthy common goals
* Honourable and fair to everyone
* Respectful to the humanity in every person he met.
* The greatest “Possibility Thinker” who ever lived: Jesus expected miracles to happen … and they did!
He had:
* Good time management skills to fit in what he accomplished
(pushing himself to exhaustion at times, so took time out to rest as needed)
* Infinite Wisdom and Insight
* A great sense of Purpose – he knew what his life was all about
* A sense of Chivalry
* Generosity towards his fellow men and women (more time spent on others than giving away money, of which he had little, like us writers!)
* An attitude of Gratitude and joy (gladness)
* A strong will – great will power
* Humility
* Patience (endless). ‘Time to work on that one now, Craig!’
* Courage (= Heroism)
* Indignation (he got very angry at times with injustice – not towards him, but others)
* Reverence (for God and others, treating the lowest with dignity)
* Definiteness of purpose
* Holiness (Divinity)
* Greatness

and finally, he possessed
* God’s (His Father’s) Supreme Grace.

“You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips.”
– Oliver Goldsmith

No matter what each one of us may or may not know and believe about the person of Jesus Christ, who lived 2000 years ago, each one of us has the power to CHOOSE to aspire to His supreme values…. and in that sense He is still with us.

Shared by craig (“Information and Inspiration Distributor, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

PS:

“True success is just being the person you really want to be.”

“The task ahead of you can always be overcome by the power within you…and the often seemingly difficult or even “impassible”) path ahead of you is never as steep with the great spirit that lies within you.”

“Success to others may be apparent in what you DO; but significance, meaning and purpose lies, then reveals itself in what you ARE and BECOME down the ‘river of life’ – how and the spirit with which you face, then overcome the daily obstacles, the frequent trials and tribulations along the often rocky path-way of life’s magical and mysterious
journey. Light your path brightly.”
-craig

“Let the light of your BEING shine brightly; so revealing Who You Really Are. Be a Bringer of the Light, which emanates from our soul, God, our Creator, the Source, the Essence of Life (and Ground of our very Being).
Therefore, it can do more than illuminate your own path.YOUR spirit will help makes the lives of others easier by illuminating others paths. For this light is our humanity, the spirit of God, truth, wisdom, beauty and especially love…and it lies within each one of us. Through your actions and your being, let your light, YOUR spirit truly shine brightly on the world, like the radiance emitted by a candle at midnight.”
– Craig Lock (adapted from Neale Donald Walsh in ‘Conversations with God Book 3′).

“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
– Hebrews 12.1
“I press towards the goal of the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 3:14

About the Submitter
Craig likes (no loves) to share information and insights to encourage others to be all they are capable of being.
He believes that whilst we should celebrate our differences, what we share is way more important than what divides us. In his writings Craig strives to break down social, cultural, religious and economic barriers.

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, empower, uplift, encourage … and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials. Change YOUR world and you help change THE world… for the better”

“Let us reach for the world that ought to be, that spark of the divine, that still stirs within each one of us.”
– the words of Barack Obama in accepting his Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway

Lord (God), expand my spirit and reveal to the world your living spirit of faith, hope and especially love .

craig

:THESE THOUGHTS MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

PPS

“Don’t tell people about Jesus; but rather SHOW his Spirit (Infinite) working through your life”

– my good friend, L (“The Prophet”)

The Five Gospels: What Did Jesus Really Say?

Article Title: The Five Gospels: What Did Jesus Really Say?
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category (key words): Jesus, Jesus Christ, thoughts on Jesus, faith, Christianity, teachings of Jesus

Web sites: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007E2WXW0 and http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com.wordpress.comwww.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.comwww.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.comwww.breakdownwalls.wordpress.comhttp://religiousunity.wordpress.comwww.peacepursuit.wordpress.comhttp://craigsblogs.wordpress.com + so many others I can’t keep track (obsessive or WHAT!)

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig

Publishing Guidelines:

All my articles may be freely published, electronically or in print

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

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THE FIVE GOSPELS: WHAT DID JESUS REALLY SAY?

INTRODUCTORY COMMENTS:
These notes form part of a new manuscript, which I’m currently ‘working on’ (it’s not really “work” as it seems to be ‘writing itself’. I may name it ‘The Real Jesus: The Jesus I Knew (and Know)’
Hope it’s not too “heavy heavy” for you and that these thoughts may be helpful, uplifting and perhaps even inspirational to you in your spiritual growth.

THE FIVE GOSPELS: WHAT DID JESUS REALLY SAY?

Let us look at the true values of the faith of Christ…
Passion for liberalism, tolerance, compassion, decency and generous ideals. The Gospels are characterised by Jesus’s unlimited (infinite) generosity of spirit. He continually taught the value of human life.

Jesus didn’t speak much about God; but rather the ‘Kingdom of God’, being rather more concerned with the human condition. He proclaimed the simplest of all appeals to Faith:
Love God with everything you’ve got and put the well-being of your neighbour on a par with yourself. His life and teachings have been vindicated.

His parables point to and sometimes describe human attitudes to life, the nature of our relationships to others, as well as the kind of society we should be attempting to build. Jesus taught people to look into the future with faith and hope (“Don’t fret about your own life”). We have to take responsibility ourselves to make the right decisions in our lives…and that is why we are given choice, ie. free will.

Jesus did not die for the sins of the world; he died because of the sins of the world. I see Jesus Christ as the key to what it is to be truly human.

The most important theme in the teachings of Jesus was brotherly love. “Love the Lord, your God with all your strength, heart, mind and soul and love your neighbour as yourself.”
Christ told us to love our enemies, not to shoot them, send them to concentration camps, or blow them up!
Loving ones enemies was and still is a revolutionary statement. Jesus taught that violence achieves nothing, whether it comes from terrorists or from the response to terrorists.
The chief theme of James (the brother of Jesus) is the living of the “good life” and this is said to be achieved by the pursuit of wisdom, a spiritual gift which originates with God.

The tradition of Jesus of Nazareth points us to a new life and new thoughts, as well as new possibilities…as an individual, a nation and as an international community.

*
My portrait is the man of almost 20 centuries ago, who talked passionately about a mode of living, so rich that it deserved to be called God’s kingdom.

And, in that sense, He is still with us.

Live your life led by the Spirit of Christ (and the spirit will never die)…
and the truth shall set you free.
*
“For me the term (concept) of what we call ‘God’ focuses on all the goals and aspirations, that make existence meaningful to us. Most importantly, it symbolises all that humanity
supremely values…and there is no thing, no time and no place in which we do not encounter this God.”
– adapted from Lloyd Geering

*

When people have God’s spirit living within them, it opens their eyes to a whole new dimension, a new, better and higher way of LIVING. Jesus encouraged life and encouraged all people to reach their God-given potential, to live life to the full (“I have come that people may have life and have it abundantly.”)

For ME, Jesus is the way to my reality.

So Jesus not only died died for us

He LIVED for us!

from Lloyd Geering’s ‘Christianity without God’

“If we choose to speak of God, we shall be using this term to focus on all that we supremely value and on the goals which make human existence meaningful and worthwhile; and there is no thing and no place in which we do not encounter this God.”

– Lloyd Geering in ‘Tomorrow’s God’

Shared by craig

As my good friend, Lindsay ‘the Prophet’ often says: “Get yourself right with Jesus, man!”

“Make Jesus your best friend and you’ve got it made.”

Author’s Bio:

In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives (without being too much of a too boring Mr goody-goody two shoes” (as he’s lost one!). Craig believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being www.craiglockbooks.comhttp://www.selfgrowth.com/experts/craig_lock.html

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 and http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

All proceeds go to needy and underprivileged children – mine!

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com.wordpress.comwww.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.comwww.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.comwww.breakdownwalls.wordpress.comhttp://religiousunity.wordpress.comwww.peacepursuit.wordpress.comhttp://craigsblogs.wordpress.com + so many others I can’t keep track (obsessive or WHAT!)

“Let not our different beliefs set us apart as human beings, but rather let our shared humanity be what defines and unites us as common citizens of our planet.”

– me

“Instead of the limits of borders (of countries and of our minds) let us and our leaders expand our sense of possibility… and together let’s look at building bridges to distant horizons, far and great. Lord, help us all lift our eyes a little higher.”

– craig

THESE THOUGHTS MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

PPS

“God is a mystery, the ‘mystery of life’, a Creative Presence, Who/That allows me to be who I really want to be and become.”

“God, the Essence of Life, is the great mystery in the vast unknown; yet He (??) is understandable.”

“God, The Essence of Life, the Ground of All Being, is leading us to the light.

The Bible: The Simplest and Best Self Help Book in the World

Article Title: The Bible: The Simplest and Best Self Help Book in the World

Shared by: Craig Lock
Category (key words): Bible, Old Testament, New Testament, Faith, Christianity, Self Help Books, Empowerment, .

Submitter’s web sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how
boring now, craig)

We hope that the following article may be informative and helpful to your ezine readers, or on your web site. If it helps others “out there” in any way, then we’re very happy.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

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THE BIBLE: THE SIMPLEST AND BEST * SELF HELP BOOK IN THE WORLD
* Also best-selling

THE OLD TESTAMENT: THE PROPHETS

Just sharing a few uplifting thoughts from my studies and notes (as well as my in depth discussions with my good friend, “The Prophet and Prayer-Warrior”
Introduction: The Prophets, Haggai , Zechariah and Malachi all inspired a proper (and positive) attitude in worship. God’s Infinite Love prepares hearts for a true relationship with God.

HAGGAI THE PROPHET
Re-order your priorities in line with God’s will. What has God told you to do? Put all else aside and obey Him.
The basic theme is to GET STARTED and NEVER QUIT! Haggai motivated and encouraged the people to believe in themselves and build the temple. Postponing difficult decisions is the direct result of a lack of faith! The people must first build the temple before God can bless their efforts.
Place God first and Haggai says God will bring joy and prosperity to His people.
*
THE PROPHET (ZECHARIAH)
The book of Zechariah has been relevant to people during every age.
Purpose: To give hope to God’s people by revealing God’s future deliverance through the Messiah
Here is the basic message of Zechariah…
Look beyond your present circumstances to the future by developing a positive, worshipful attitude to God. The Prophet reminded the people that God had a plan for their future in the coming of the Messiah and the Messiah will bring salvation. Through building on the spiritual quality of people’s lives, God promised to work miraculous events for His people. Zechariah, the Prophet gave people hope and a vision to trust God and see a bright future, as they planned ahead. So prepare well, dream big, announce your intentions and put in the hard work to make your dreams, your vision come to fruition. Zachariah taught that through people did not know what the future held in store for them, men and women of faith knew the God, who knew the future.
God has a plan for the world… but God also has a plan for each ONE of us
*
THE PROPHET, MALACHI
The book of Malachi forms a bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament.
Purpose: To confront the people with their sins and to restore their relationship with God.
Malachi sought to bring the people back to God, encouraging them to shed the pagan lifestyle they had adopted whilst in exile. The people were ignorant as to how they were to worship God and their lifestyles revealed a lack of trust in God’s ability to provide for their needs.
Key word: Messenger Malachi reminds the people of a day of reckoning when God judges the righteous and the wicked. But he also reminds the people that a messenger will come and redemption will follow.
Malachi concludes with a promise of the coming of the prophet Elijah, who will offer God’s forgiveness to all people through forgiveness and faith (4:5,6). God’s Infinite Love prepares hearts for a true relationship with God.
Our lives can be a living message of God’s positive love and joy.
God has a plan for the world… but God also has a plan for each ONE of us!

“Prepare the way of the Lord.” – Matthew 3:3

Shared by craig from extracts sourced from The New Possibilities Thinkers Bible by Paul D Dunn and Robert H Schuller (published by Thomas Nelson) and The Life Application Bible (published by Tyndale House, Inc, Il) *

Another extract…

Sourced from: http://simplydivinelove.blogspot.com/2008_09_01_archive.html

The Book of Malachi
“A vase shatters, brushed by a careless elbow; a toy breaks, pushed beyond its limit by young fingers; and fabric rips, pulled by strong and angry hands. Spills and rips take time to clean up or repair and money to replace, but far more costly are shattered relationships. Unfaithfulness, un-truths, hateful words, and forsaken vows tear delicate personal bonds and inflict wounds not easily healed. Most tragic, however, a broken relationships with God.

God loves perfectly and completely. And his love is a love of action–giving, guiding, and guarding. He is altogether faithful, true to his promise to his chosen people. but consistently they spurn their loving God, breaking the covenant, following other gods, and living for themselves. So the relationship is shattered.
But the breach is not irreparable; all hope is not lost. God can heal and mend and reweave the fabric. Forgiveness is available. And that is grace.
Malachi paints a stunning picture of Israel’s unfaithfulness that clearly shows them to be worthy of punishment, but woven throughout this message is HOPE–the possibility of forgiveness. This is beautifully expressed in 4:2 –“But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.”
Malachi concludes with a promise of the coming of the “the prophet Elijah,” who will offer God’s forgiveness to all people through repentance and faith (4:5,6).
The book of Malachi forms a bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament. As you read Malachi, see yourself as the recipient of this word of God to his people. Evaluate the depth of your commitment, the sincerity of your worship, and the direction of your life. Then allow god to restore your relationship with him through his love and forgiveness.” Malachi closes his messages by pointing to that great final day of judgment. For those who are committed to God, judgment day will be a day of joy because it will usher in eternity in God’s presence. Those who have ignored God will be “stubble,” to be burned up (4:1). To help the people prepare for that day of judgment, God would send a prophet like Elijah (John the Baptist), who would prepare the way for Jesus, the Messiah. The New Testament beings with this prophet calling the people to turn from their sins and to turn toward god. Such a commitment to God demands great sacrifice on our part, but we can be sure it will be worth it all in the end.

Life Application Bible Study Bible; The Book of Malachi page 1627 & notes on page 1633, NIV version, Zondervan Press
Sourced from: http://simplydivinelove.blogspot.com/2008_09_01_archive.html

Shared by craig

“I’m just a pencil in the hands of God.” – Mother Teresa

“What we are is God’s gift to us. What we become is our gift to God.”

About the submitter:
Craig believes in (and loves) sharing information and insights to try to make a difference in this world: to help and especially encourage people along life’s magical journey … and that brings him the greatest joy. In his life mission Craig hopes to help, encourage, motivate, uplift and perhaps even inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials. His dream is seeing people reach for and perhaps even achieve their wildest dreams.

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at:http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.

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“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, empower, uplift, encourage … and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

THIS PIECE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED (with acknowledgement to the sources, thanks)

God IS blessing you