Ramblings about living in Christ Jesus.
It all begins when Christ calls us to consciousness, when the Father bring us back to our true Self, a concept deeply resonant with Gnostic teachings. In Gnosticism, the Self is seen as a divine spark or fragment of the Pleroma, the fullness of the divine, you being a part of God. What does this mean in practical terms? I’m still uncovering that mystery. However, what I do know is that Christ Jesus invites us into an adventure of a lifetime. He beckons us to pursue a path that often runs contrary to our natural instincts and worldly understanding.
As human beings, we might believe that resisting evil is an act of justice, and sometimes it can be. Yet, Jesus calls us to a vision that is even grander. He challenges us not only to set aside anger towards our fellow humans but also to pray for those who persecute us. He calls us to extend love even to those who hate us. In order to connect with the divine essence within, we must resist the evil Force inside of us. We must transcend our material attachments and ego and integrate the dark side. This is no easy feat. But what good can we truly accomplish if we only forgive those whom we already love? What grace is there if we do not extend love to those who sow evil? Imagine the peace you could achieve by forgiving everyone who has ever wronged you. Imagine the suffering that could be alleviated by ending the cycle of bitterness. Though it seems daunting, this process becomes more manageable with practice; like any skill, it requires repetition and dedication.
How can we heal in the way Jesus did? While we may never replicate His physical miracles, we can still offer spiritual healing through simple acts of kindness. In Gnostic thought, healing is often associated with awakening to our true nature and reconnecting with the divine spark within. A warm hug or a friendly handshake can provide comfort and a sense of rebirth in the Spirit. In our increasingly disconnected “modern” world, physical touch holds profound significance. However, this touch is meaningless if it lacks genuine compassion and connection. Embrace openness and defend Love.
To be the Force for good in this world, we must, as Jesus puts it, be “the Salt of the Earth.” We are called to preserve and enrich the world. How can we enrich it? By giving up everything we have, recognizing that it was never ours to begin with. In order to know, to be a Gnostic, to be in Gnosis or Nirvana, we must transcend our material attachments and ego. Love your enemies, and when they unjustly impose burdens upon you, carry them with a smile, and go the extra mile. They need your help, and your help needs you. The people who support you truly love you, and those who hinder you need your love even more. This is the essence of being the Salt of the Earth.
Reflect on these ideas and explore them in your own life. Learn. Remember. Words alone are incomparable to actions adjoined. Think. It’s challenging to act in line with our true Self when we are entangled with our ego. You are not your ego; you are your Self, a spark of the divine, you are all, things interconnected with Love. Strive to embody these ideals: Be Him. Be Her. Be kind. Be courageous. Be just. Be diligent. Be beautiful. Be chaste. Be patient to all. Be in the past and the future. Be present. Live in Christ Jesus. Live in Wisdom. Extend Grace. And above all, be below. Humble. You are simply a man to be amen. So be it. John 1:42
