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My first introduction to invitational Presence was in the little rural church I attended as a small boy. From right after birth, my mom had me in the worship meetings, that I might learn of this amazing man called Jesus. Over time, I came to see that Jesus, as he is portrayed in the Gospels, unlike the way Christianity oft seeks to 'convert' others to its faith, seemed relaxed and non-coercive in his relating with persons. In fact, most persons approached him, not Jesus them. He seemed content, likewise, with drinking and fellowship at table, as much, or more so, as when sharing about matters spiritual. And often he would speak in reply to questions posed or engage a healing, then leave as though he had no need for response. And, frequently, he seemed to have intentionally veiled the meaning of his teaching, not expecting or wishing for understanding. He seemed to be okay with all this. Jesus presents as graceful, invitational, in contrast to much of the religion in his name. Of course, we can note wisely, Jesus never was a Christian, so had no agenda for anyone to become a Christian. He remains, for me, a sign of pure Love, not of a religion, and that Gracefulness is what drew me to yield myself to him, when a small boy age 9.
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I will continue, later, with the thought of graceful and indifferent presence, as well as scripture from the Christian Bible that has inspired me to aspire toward welcoming my bodily presence to be an invitation, a welcome, to others. I will speak of a posture of ritual that opened me to the reception of Grace as invitational.
Concluding, today, I offer some sagacious words, which we can return to later as well, and that relates to our theme.
Since God does not function on a personal basis, God will not do anything for you personally. There must be within you always the remembrance that this that you seek, you seek for all mankind, for everyone, friend or enemy. It would be as impossible to channel God into you and your affairs as it would be to channel the rain into your garden. If you want to pray for rain, you had better pray for rain and not specify your or anyone else’s garden. You will have to be willing for it to fall on the gardens of all those you do not like as well as those you do.
*Joel S. Goldsmith. Beyond Words and Thoughts.
*(C) Copyright 2018, Brian K. Wilcox.
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