What is Holiness?
What is Holiness? Is it a title we give to religious leaders or special religious movements? Is it an expression to describe the extreme righteousness and purity of God and people? Or is it simply a vague, ethereal term we use to express the nature of someone or something? The Bible states that because God is holy, people must be holy, and without holiness, no one will see God. Such statements should compel us to explore this topic and give it a high priority in our lives. In this book, the author attempts to provide us with a working definition of holiness and how it applies to our lives. He explains holiness as a relational term as opposed to a behavioral term such as righteousness and shows how it should characterize not only our relationship with God but all relationships in God's creation. Finally, the author explores the various characteristics of holiness, such as its beauty, power, discipline, and peacefulness.
Humming With Hopeful Things
In Humming with Hopeful Things, from the Vera's Verses Series, Connie Kerbs offers a collection of heartfelt devotions that lead readers on a journey of hope. It reminds us of the transformative power of hope and its ability to bring solace amidst life's challenges. The well-structured organization allows readers to navigate through the devotions based on their needs. Each page includes images of hummingbirds that resonate with the wisdom they are paired with. "Humming with Hopeful Things" is a beautiful devotional that is more than worth the read. It and its companion books, A Season For All Things and Whatsoever Things, would make a lovely coffee table collection to be seen and appreciated by all who enter your home.
Beyond Religion
Beyond Religion is a thought provoking and critical look at religion and spirituality as concepts inherently embedded in the fabric of our society. Among others, one of the key impetuses of Beyond Religion is the author's view that faith, spirituality and even perspectives of God is due for a bit of reform. Religion and certain traditions must be updated to align contemporary social systems. The author leverages his deep fascination with the concepts of religion and spirituality, and more importantly how these concepts play out in our everyday life and our interaction with others to discuss relevant issues. Additionally, Beyond Religion explores influences of religion and spirituality within our culture, relationships, mental health, economy, and other social dynamics. The author masterfully and artfully uses the concept of Beyond Religion as the basis to engage key historical and cultural dynamics to discuss how the relationship, or lack thereof, between religion and spirituality influence our perspectives.
Defiant Throne
Defiant Throne is the story of Queen Zenia, who dares to challenge the king's decree. The story is a narrative through the eyes of the prophet Daniel, captured during the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem. Zenia was a royal princess, King Nebuchadnezzar's great-granddaughter, and King Belshazzar's daughter. She was captured and taken to the Susa Palace and placed in a harem after her father's death, and her country was captured by Darius the Great. In the harem, by accident of her beauty and intellect, she rose to the power of one of the most remarkable powers in the world, the Achaemenid Empire. Quietly, she seeks ways to avenge her father's death and restore the throne of Babylon..During a military banquet of honored officials, King Dawit requested that Queen Zenia present herself in front of the guests, wearing only the royal crown, a gross breach of Persian etiquette and a cruel outrage upon one who was, above all men, appointed by Ahura Mazda and bound to protect her. The queen, a strong-willed woman with an independent mind, courageous and admirable, refused to heed the king's request. The proud king consulted with his royal advisors for matters of law and justice for matters of law and justice. The council's advice was to remove Queen Zenia and be banished from the presence of her, the king, and replace her with a more honorable woman.The clever queen finds ways to circumvent the decree and convinces the king to make her Queen of Babylon. King Dawit honors her request and gives her sovereignty to rule over Babylon. Empress Adi, Mother Queen, learns of the treaty but despises Queen Zenia, stemming from harem rivalry. She disapproves of the royal marriage, and Zenia is barren. Secretly, she wants to end the influence Zenia had on her son, and the only way is to have her executed.The story takes a turn after Babylon is attacked, the Temple of Marduk is destroyed, and the body of Zenia is not found in the destruction. Fearing her treason would be discovered. Mother Queen blames the Greeks, convincing her son to campaign against the Aegean Islands despite the significant ill omens against the king.The long and bitter struggle between the great Persian Empire and the fledgling Greek city-states reaches its high point with extraordinary events unfolding in the Greco-Persian wars in search of Queen Zenia.Historical fiction is a brilliant story, evoking dramatic momentous events in motion.
The Mayans Morning of Terror at Cumorah!
"The Mayan's Morning of Terror at Cumorah" warns against repeating themistakes of past civilizations that turned away from God. The author connectshistorical events with contemporary challenges, emphasizing the impendingdivine judgment. The narrative aims to counter liberal perspectives andhighlights Joseph Smith's significance in this era.The author provides insights into the predecessors of Ancient America, uncovering their worship practices, blessings, and eventual self-destruction.The book serves as a warning to the Gentiles, asserting the Americas as theremnants of the tribe of Joseph's inheritance.Expressing a fervent belief in Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon'sauthenticity, the author challenges alternative narratives, urging readers todiscern the truth. The narrative encourages reliance on spiritual guidance andpersonal faith, emphasizing the limitations of secular methods like carbon dating.Ultimately, the author's goal is to inspire readers to seek divine knowledge, embrace faith, and prepare for imminent judgment and redemption.
Life Pirate
"I am a man of fortune and must seek my fortune." - Captain Henry Avery Embark on the poignant poetic journey of a middle-aged man as he navigates a turbulent phase marked by profound losses, transformations and self-discovery. In a few months, he grapples with the passing of his father, the onset of divorce proceedings and imminent relocation-a challenging trifecta shaping a pivotal chapter in his life. As a child of a bygone era, the author reflects on a world transitioning from black and white TVs to Fitbits and bitcoins. This collection exploring his cultural touchstones of the 80s, memories of Christmases past, and the transformative experiences of adolescence and parenthood. Life's milestones reveal a shift in perspective, the author contemplating an uncertain future with responsibility and accountability. Verses delve into the evolving relationship with the world through art and travel, inspiring a mindset known as "being a life pirate"- this embracing life's unpredictability with courage and resilience. The poems serve as a poignant reminder that life is a journey, and though the destination remains uncertain, the path is where purpose, authenticity and the true essence of being human are discovered. Through this collection, readers are invited to sail the seas of existence as life pirates, ready to treasure every experience, no matter how unexpected. Cheers to the voyage!
Wrestling with Sovereignty
Is God really sovereign? Is he sovereign enough for my messy life? It's always easy to trust, to love, and sing praises to God when life is smooth and easy. But when the walls start closing in, when you lose your business and your home and you move away from your adult children and grandchildren, can you trust God with all that pain and uncertainty? "You number my wanderings; put my tears into your bottle" (Psalms 56:8). A mysterious illness was killing my husband right before my eyes, and all I could see were the scary questions looming over our future. What if Harry should die and leave me alone in North Dakota? I had another back injury that would demand two surgeries. Could I truly love God with all my heart, be content and grateful, even if healing never comes? After my Mother died suddenly, I was riddled with grief, guilt, and unforgiveness for the many secrets surrounding her passing. Now that Mother was gone, what did God want me to do with my Father? We were going to work and live in the oil fields of North Dakota. Would we ever feel normal again?What we saw was God was in all the details, the beautiful and the messy. He was there walking beside us, he was holding on to us even when we were losing our grip and our faith. A King does not abdicate his throne when his people go through a battle. Rather, that is when he shows his true strength, his compassion, his supremacy, so his people have someone to follow. When we were at our weakest, God was at his strongest; he was there, and we learned that in him alone was our security and our future, our hope, and our peace.
God After Deconstruction
Deconstruction is hard!Bad views of God and harmful experiences lead many of us to deconstruct. But we're right to run from the nonsense we've been taught and from those who hurt us.God After Deconstruction will not be welcomed by traditionalists. It's not a book for people who think conventional theology works. It isn't for people who just want to tweak a bit what they've been taught.Thomas Jay Oord and Tripp Fuller offer an open and relational vision of God. This vision makes sense; it fits our experience; it's livable. The open and relational view aligns with our deep intuitions about love and freedom.God After Deconstruction is for those deconstructing and those wanting help after deconstruction. It's for people in the fire and those with scars.God After Deconstruction is an adventure for lovers in tumultuous times!Buy this book.Six-Word Endorsements for God After Deconstruction"When everything goes, only God remains." -- Simon Cross, chair of the Progressive Christianity Network (Britain)"Helpful companion on your deconstruction journey."-- EDJ, author of Deconstructing Religious Sexual Trauma: A Memoir"A faith beyond deconstruction is possible." -- Kathy Escobar, author of Faith Shift and Practicing "A relational way to think about purpose." -- Jonathan J. Foster, author of indigo: the color of grief"This is a really great book." -- Keith Giles, author of the 7-part "Jesus Un" book series"A God-centric approach to deconstruction." -- David Hayward, aka NakedPastor"A compassionate primer on our deconstruction."-- Angela Herrington, author of Deconstructing Your Faith Without Losing Yourself"A thoughtful third way - highly recommended."-- Olivia Jackson, author of (Un)Certain"Life-giving for doubters, deconstructors, wonderers."-- Mark Karris, author of The Diabolical Trinity"Powerful, essential, required reading for everyone." -- Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Madang Podcast and author of Invisible"Adventure guide to life after deconstruction."-- Brian D. McLaren, author of Do I Stay Christian?"I've always believed in this God!" -- Mason Mennenga, A People's Theology podcast"A deconstruction journey worth taking!"-- Sherri Pallas, author of We Have Ruined God"An exvangelical deconstruction guide to God." -- Jim Palmer, author of Inner Anarchy "A haven for the hard questions."-- Elizabeth Petters, the Deconstructing Mamas podcast"Faces the hard questions without blinking."-- Janet Kellogg Ray, The God of Monkey Science"The God you need right now!"-- Gary Alan Taylor, the Sophia Society"Everyone deconstructing should read this book."-- Tim Whitaker, creator of The New Evangelicals"The God of Love always triumphs!" -- John Williamson, The Deconstructionists Podcast
Stolen Memories
Dementia steals memories--creative stitchery crafts can hold memories. Stolen Memories: An Alzheimer's Stole Ministry and Tallit Initiative describes the use of hand-sewn, individualized stoles and stole-style tallitot in advocacy for Alzheimer's and related dementias. These beautiful pieces of liturgical art can increase awareness, prompt discussion, begin an educational process, promote dementia-friendly faith communities, and give honor to those affected by Alzheimer's. Pastors wear them in the pulpit or as they conduct services, particularly during national days of awareness or remembrance of those affected by dementia or their caregivers and loved ones. Chaplains wear them in pastoral visits or special services for people in assisted living or memory-care units. Advocates wear them as they speak at churches, synagogues, conferences, or training sessions, or as they make visits to their representatives in Congress to lobby for increased funding for research, as well as treatment and care for persons living with dementia and their care partners. Included are simple step-by-step instructions and photos on how readers can piece and sew their own stoles and tallitot, along with many photos of clergy wearing them and their personal reflections on the stoles/tallitot and their meaning to them.
Playing for the Light
Are you embarking on or well into your own spiritual journey, but finding the path to be challenging?Perhaps you have had some experiences that aren't sitting well with you or that are confusing?Perhaps you have attended an event or retreat from which you came away feeling worse than before?Perhaps you look to others to gain wisdom and knowledge? If so, you might find helpful advice and warnings in Teresa Carty's experiences with a variety of spiritual groups and organisations, including the spiritual eco-community at Damanhur.After participating in several costly, disappointing, and disturbing organisations and events, which left her feeling confused, disillusioned, and overwhelmed with negative emotions, she unexpectedly met a person who was genuinely able to help her. Quite simply, this person was teaching from the embodied wisdom which had resulted from doing her 'inner' or 'shadow' work. She was able to help Teresa to understand and move beyond the mistakes she had made. Teresa has written this book in the hope that you might learn from her mistakes and not walk into things quite as blindly as she did, as you continue on your own spiritual journey.
The Well
The loss of love in all its forms seems to be firmly entwined within the very fabric of life's intricate tapestry. The heartache it inevitably unleashes becomes an intolerable burden, at times plunging you into the deepest depths of despair and suffering. It seems that it is only in those darkest times that your quest begins in earnest to seek out answers to quell your inner turmoil. Maybe that is the truest purpose of suffering in your life, to propel you on a journey to the revelation of your true inner power as a Divine being. "The Well" is a fictionalized journey of such a discovery; where Lilly, overcome with grief following the death of her son, seeks to end her own life in the forests of Michigan. Her intention, however, is thwarted by the accidental plunge to the bottom of an old farming well. Through her haze of confusion, Lilly is confronted by the image of a man who calls himself the Prophet. As he projects back to her scenes from her past, the prophet reveals the hidden nature of her reality and how she is a powerful co-creator within the Divine Mind of the cosmos. Lilly is at last able to see, that lying within the synchronistic events of her life, there is a far deeper meaning and purpose than she ever could have known. For those who have eyes ready to see and a heart willing to heal, this story is for you.
Blessings Through the Seasons
A thought-provoking Christian devotional based on Bible verses, with personal reflections and uplifting messages to motivate and inspire you on your faith journey. You will find hope and comfort, as well as encouragement to act with kindness and compassion for others. You will feel the promise and joy that God is always by our side-His light and love protecting and guiding us through life's many seasons.
Colors of the Spirit
Seldom does a teacher come along with the ability to take the exuberance of spiritual joy and put it on a page in lessons of graceful simplicity and life-giving power. But in Colors of the Spirit, readers are introduced to just such a teacher in Dorothy Ederer. Here she shares her own prescription for a fulfilling life, and illustrates it with the stories of those who have enriched her own journey. You will see in these stories people who looked inside themselves and discovered the potential God gave them to touch others. These individuals were the colors that brightened Dorothy's world, a world which was sometimes darkened by the hopelessness she encountered in her work as a counselor and teacher. Yet she found that just as white light is filtered through raindrops to create a rainbow, so too is God's light filtered through all of creation and manifested in each being in a unique way. In Colors of the Spirit, Ederer goes through each color of the rainbow to share the special meanings they have for her, and how the qualities they represent can bring us peace and joy in our own lives.
Magdalene’s Ascension
A new, integrative account of the life and work of Mary Magdalene - Examines the lives of Jesus and Mary Magdalene, using biblical, historical, apocryphal, and recent channeled sources as well as regression reports - Explains the concept of ascension through a quantum-physics framework, detailing Mary Magdalene's ascension along the Tree of Life - Explores Mary's family background, her education in Egypt, her mission in Western Europe, and her life and work alongside Jesus, including her role as his wife and his appointed successor Expanding the scholarship and understanding of the early Christian period and the world of the Essenes from a feminine perspective, religious historian Annine van der Meer offers a detailed new account of the life of Mary Magdalene, also known as Mary of Bethany or Miryam the Migdalah, showing how Mary's spiritual path is intimately connected to our current times of ascension. The author explores Mary's family background, her education in Egypt, her mission in Western Europe, her life and work alongside Jesus, also known as Yeshua, and her anointing as his wife and his appointed successor. Though not recognized by the patriarchal disciples Peter, Andrew, and Paul, the author presents the evidence of Mary's role through biblical, historical, apocryphal, and recent channeled sources and regression reports, including those of Dolores Cannon, Stuart Wilson, Joanna Prentis, and Claire Heartsong. Van der Meer then reveals Mary's ascension process through seven branches along the Tree of Life, detailed in The Gospel of the Beloved Companion, written by Mary herself, and scientifically explains ascension--the changing of the physical body into a light body--through recent developments in quantum physics. She takes the reader through seven portals, from individual ascension to collective ascension, illuminating not only Mary's heavenly journey of becoming light but also its spiritual significance for each of us as individuals and for the world as a whole.
A New Horizon
Out of his complete body of lectures, class work, and books compiled over twenty years, Joel Goldsmith recommended just nine chapters that should be "known by every student as well as they know their own name." These chapters, he said, could lift one from the third-dimensional consciousness to the fourth-dimensional Consciousness.Each chapter in this book addresses a particular aspect of our spiritual development. The first chapter lays the groundwork, establishing our starting point in Spirit. We progress through chapters covering our oneness with God and how that spiritual relationship affects other relationships. We learn about trials, barriers to growth, and protection, and eventually, we break through the human confines and emerge with a bolder spiritual perception. After working with all nine chapters, we emerge with a new understanding and awaken to the fact that our world reflects what resides in our consciousness. And, when fourth-dimensional Consciousness emerges, we realize and experience The Infinite Way of being.
Oh My God Faith in Fate
"Oh My God" is a compilation of memories presented in the form of quotes, essays, and uplifting poetry, encompassing 77 years of life and faith. This book emphasizes the author's connection with God and others, highlighting the positive experiences and lessons of spiritual development and navigating love and loss. It avoids any negative tones of complaining or anxiety. The author's poetic voice invites readers into the intimate reflections and moments of personal discovery that have shaped their journey in a positive and hopeful light and serves as a reminder of the power of faith and love in overcoming life's challenges. This book inspires resilience, gratitude, and faith in tough times, giving hope to those who need it.The proceeds from the sale of all my books go to Tema India's Youth Empowerment Program.
Beyond Disciple to Relationship
Anyone who wants to grow and wants to help others to grow in the Lord will find a practical approach within Beyond Discipleship to Relationship. Are you interested in growing a more intimate relationship with Christ?Think about how you first decided seriously to follow Jesus. Was it initiated in the midst of a crowd or during an intimate talk with one or two other believers?Beyond Discipleship to Relationship was written to: Inspire individual intimacy with the Lord.Initiate shifts or revitalize your lifestyle as an imitation of the Gospel story.Delve into particular events in the Bible, pausing for further reflection.Nurture the desire that others will see Christ in the lives we live.Psalm 100:5 And His truth endureth to all generations. God's truth dwells in you. It is my belief that to God's glory, your work will magnify Him. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of that process.Raymond Whitaker, Deacon Board Chairman andSunday School teacher, Angel Visit Baptist Church;Essex County School Board Chairman
The Mysteries of Life after Death
Foreword by the PublisherArchimandrite Nikon, the senior priest of the church of Saint Mary Magdalene in The Hague, often reminds in his sermons the congregation that 'We are born in order to die. This body, this outward form, is not given to us forever. Only our soul is eternal, and everyone has his own individual soul, without the possibility to reincarnate. The soul is given only one chance to save itself within a period of time determined by God'.This book gives an idea of what happens to the soul after death and how we can prepare ourselves for that time.The first part of the book tells how the living can help the souls of the dead achieve deliverance from sufferings, full or partial, and come closer to God. It should be noted that this deliverance is temporary, it will last till the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Last Judgment, when Christ will decide the further fate of each soul: whether it deserves eternal blessedness or eternal torment.The core of the second part is the narrative of the monk Gregory, the disciple of the holy elder Basil the New, who lived in Constantinople in the first half of the tenth century. Gregory relates how in his dream he was visited by the soul of Theodora who was also the elder Basil's disciple. Theodora had been seeking God since a young age. When she reached middle age and was widowed, she became the elder Basil's spiritual daughter and was tonsured a nun. Theodora did Christian spiritual practices under St. Basil's guidance till her old age. After Theodora's death Gregory was eager to learn about her fate after death, probably in order to make certain that the elder had really gained God's grace. Gregory beseeched the elder, and once, in his dream Theodora appeared and told him about the ordeals her soul went through after being separated from the body.It later had a great influence on Christian literature in many countries of Europe and in Russia. It was included in many collections of spiritual literature as well as in handbooks for priests. It was copied, expanded or shortened; ecclesiastics sometimes added to it their own ideas about human afterlife or their own spiritual visions of life beyond the grave. It should be noted that the ordeals which a monk's or a nun's soul undergoes after death are much more severe than those faced by lay people. As the hermit Theophane from the Solovetsky Islands said, if he had known how hard the fulfilment of monastic vows would be, he would not have received the full tonsure from fear of the heavy responsibility at the judgment after death. The person who makes monastic vows becomes in God's eyes equal to an angel, and unto whomsoever much is given, much shall be required (Luke 12:48). Therefore it may be advisable for the reader not to focus on specific details of ecclesiastics' experiences after death, or the conventions of this or that time, or the personality of the monk Gregory and later narrators writing about his vision. But he must try to accept this story as the heavenly forces' message, that without seeking Christ and the Mother of God, without the Church's support, the Christian soul can achieve salvation neither in life nor after death. The Christian should consciously prepare for the trials after death during his earthly life: through prayer, repentance and confession. Marijcke Tooneman and Guram Kochi, PublishersThe Hague, May 2009
Affirming the God of Jesus
As a member of Alcoholics Anonymous for some 30 years, I have been fascinated by the concept of a Higher Power that members are encouraged to pursue. A number of people are identified in this work who appear to have a relationship with a Deity who is user-friendly. Jesus pioneered the image of God as a loving parent and gathered followers who would convey this message to those around them. His preaching disturbed the religious authorities who were invested in a rules-based God who provided conditional access. This work seeks to free up an image of God that many people associate with a harsh interpretation of religion. At a time when the world is truly a global village, the concept of God can no longer be narrow, but must include all people on the planet. It should take into account cosmology and scientific discoveries. I also investigate what happens to people who have been hurt by religious authorities and how this affects their image of a loving God.
52 Weeks
52 Weeks is a book about reflection on the promises of God. Most of our concerns and trials are not solved with a daily verse but require deeper reflection on the words of God. In this book I present topics that we all encounter focusing on the topic for a week as opposed to a daily meditation verse. The intent is to understand how God's words for us encourage and strengthen faith with a week of focused reflection.
Personal Reflections in Praising God
Debra Robinson grew up in a world with little love, and she had no idea what love really was. She experienced a critical, condemning, and heartbreaking childhood, coming close to committing suicide. God transformed her life and helped her overcome that early trauma, giving her hope and purpose. In Personal Reflections in Praising God, she shares parts of her life story, telling how God performed many miracles throughout the years. Robinson journeys through the alphabet and showcases verses that praise and worship God. From A to Z, this collection features more than 2,450 verses and 38 translations of God's word. In this compilation, Robinson details how, through scripture, He provides guidance and direction to live the best life, including steps to receiving eternal life. She reveals how falling in love with God and applying His principles daily will help you grow, find contentment and happiness, and become a changed person.
Unbinding the Perpetual Soul
What if our actual lives aren't 'written' like a simple story? Nor like a book that flows neatly and sequentially from 'chapter-to-chapter' via a rigidly linear plot. But written, instead, through a series of creative interludes or moments. Further still, what if our lives shouldn't simply happen to us? But, rather, be lived through our affirmative acts of seeking 'life.' As part of an ongoing, active quest. A human quest for deeply spiritual lives of continuously 'becoming.' In Unbinding the Perpetual Soul, Jeffrey C. Tucker writes via a series of essays. These diverse, accessible, engaging, creative, and provocative essays are organized around our human quests for 'being.' For to 'be' entails continuous and challenging, but highly rewarding, quests for things such as identity, wellbeing, belonging, truths, things sacred, healing, transcendence, and meaning. Questing is not an easy journey, to be sure. But it's life changing. It's exhilarating. It's exciting and rewarding. And while far from certain in its destination, one thing is for sure: you'll be a better, healthier, and far more actualized person in the process. You'll be more spiritually 'whole' and grounded. So join in this quest, if you will. An inclusive, soulful, unbinding, and life-giving one at that.
Do they make coffins that small?
What it is like to do a funeral?Are you ready to sit with people in their darkest moments?These are the kinds of questions that Alex Sangster struggled with as she began her journey as an ordained minister in the Uniting Church in Australia. And the journey continues.Using the metaphor of Story, she shares her passion to discover ways that liberate, inspire and awaken; and suggests how the emerging church can connect with those who are spiritually hungry but culturally anti-institution. do they make coffins that small? explores what it means to minister in the context of contemporary disbelief.
Mary Magdalene
Become a friend of Jesus TODAY AND EVERY DAY, just like Mary Magdalene.About the AuthorBonnie Ring became ordained in the Episcopal Church. During Seminary, she became acquainted with the Women who Knew Jesus as recipients of his teachings and healings, which led her to lead interactive and self-reflective retreats on those women throughout the United States and Canada. This eventually led to the publication of a book, Women Who Knew Jesus. Mary Magdalene, a Disciple and Friend of Jesus is her first children's book because young girls need to know her as a role model for a life of faith.
Stories for a Kindred Heart
This new addition to the bestselling Stories for the Heart series is designed to celebrate friendship and togetherness. These charming stories from popular Christian authors such as Max Lucado, Billy Graham, Gloria Gaither, Ruth Bell Graham, Philip Yancey, Dale Evans Rogers, and Bill Butterworth-satisfy the deep longing each of us has to have our heart entwined with another. Readers will cherish these uplifting and treasured stories that honor relationships nurtured by time, laughter, and tears. This book is sure to become a favorite as it focuses on the sweetest joys of life-shared memories and kindred hearts.
Mystical Luminosity Experience
Light of a divine or transcendent nature is widely revered in various religious and mystical traditions around the world, and luminosity with mystical qualities such as love, bliss, peace, and noetic realization is also frequently reported by contemporary experiencers. Despite being described as a profoundly significant, sacred, and transformative experience, mystical luminosity has received relatively little attention in modern scholarship and scientific study, and has only been examined empirically within isolated contexts, such as NDEs or contemplative practices. This study examines the phenomenology which binds mystical luminosity across various experiential contexts to construct a phenomenologically grounded theoretical model. A three-part mixed methods investigation using a new mystical luminosity experience scale based on this model is then summarized, with findings generally supporting and further clarifying the model.
The Second Resurrection of Jesus for the Love of GOD
After the accumulation of approximately 2000 years of intentional and unintentional spiritual sedimentation over Jesus and his message from GOD, for GOD, this second resurrection is long overdue. Jesus' message of loving GOD with all our faculties is so valuable for the individual and humanity, that it stands alone as the validation of his existence and kingship. In this writing we will bring that message back from the dead and into the 21st century, using 21st century scientific and religious knowledge and language. Be forewarned, this adventure will change your life forever.
Adventures in Changes, Transitions, and Deaths
"Death, the ending or death of anything - is a transition, a passage. It is how you navigate this transition that will set the stage for your next beginning. The more you understand the process, the great adventure of change, transition, and death, the more you can use the experience to consciously -- with your full attention at work upon it -- create the next phase of your life, design your new reality." -- Dr. Angela Brownemiller ADVENTURES IN CHANGES, TRANSITIONS, AND DEATHS: PRIMER FOR LIFE'S MINOR AND MAJOR CHALLENGES AND PASSAGES is written for anyone who is undergoing, has undergone, or will undergo death, or a major ending or transition of any sort. This includes divorce, being fired, leaving home or having one's children leave home. It includes abrupt changes or endings such as having one's home damaged in an earthquake, experiencing an injury, or having something precious stolen. It also includes gradual but definite changes such as: changes in behavioral patterns -- shifting out of a steady or an addicted relationship to a drug, a person, a behavior; outgrowing a stage of life, a philosophy, a belief, an attitude; aging; having one's oldest friend die; or, undergoing the disease process, whether it is temporary, chronic, or terminal. And, of course, we include the model of death with which we think we are so familiar: physical death, which is seen by many people as the ultimate of all deaths. Indeed, physical death -- fear of it, avoidance of it, viewing it as final -- is an excellent model for all the deaths, small and great deaths, that each and every one of us must endure. ... ---Dr. Angela Brownemiller, also known as Dr. Angela(R), is an author, and a journalist, social thinker, clinician, psychotherapist, trainer, and speaker. The views of Angela Brownemiller are centered on the great potential of the human mind, heart, and soul, and on the rights of all of us, who and whatever we are (or think we are). Angela Brownemiller views the human consciousness as a wealth of opportunity for exploration, insight, knowledge - and survival. For more information on her work, see DrAngela.com. A publication of Metaterra(R).
The Four Faces of God
WHAT IS THIS BOOK?- A refreshing look at the four gospels.- A beginning to seeing God's face and the face of others.- An encouragement to have a face.- A basis for understanding the four living creatures (cherubim) in leadership.- A revelation of the Lion, Ox, Man, and Eagle as the four faces of God in Jesus Christ.- A guide to each gospel's uniqueness and purpose.
The Journey of Spiritual Empowerment
Using a wealth of spiritual wisdom and responding to real-life client questions, this book is designed to help people make sense of and thereby navigate their unique life journey. Helpful information, easy-to-follow exercises, and rituals to help everyone unlock their inner wisdom and provide clarity to what can often feel like hopeless situations are included.
Dewdrops of Wisdom
Mother Mary emerges as Being of Light and Truth in this remarkable transmission received through Marietta Beregi-not only as a being of Wisdom but as a supremely practical mother, fully compassionate with human desires and foibles. Like a true Mother, she never leaves her human children. This volume demonstrates again and again her tender embrace. Moreover, she understands and offers meaningful insight into the three most important things about spiritual awakening: relationship, relationship, and relationship!"I am human with divine love in my heart, just as you are. If you ask, I will show you the way. But do not look at me as someone who lives in an unattainable height and who should be worshiped and begged. I want to be a mirror so you can see your beautiful God-given selves. I long for you to realize the blissful reality that we are all one heart and one soul in God."
The Gospel of the Pentateuch A Set of Parish Sermons
"The Gospel of the Pentateuch " is an ancient Theological, Biblical story book written by Charles Kingsley. In this beneficial paintings, Kingsley is going into the deeper non secular principles hidden within the first 5 books of the antique testomony, called the Pentateuch or Torah. The usage of painstaking examine and profound interpretation, Kingsley delves into the Pentateuch's primary ideas of redemption, divine timing, and the revelation of God's plan. He emphasizes the spiritual significance of the Judeo-Christian way of life's foundational texts, especially narratives, guidelines, and rituals. Kingsley's writing blends rigorous scholarship with excessive willpower as he efforts to unearth the Pentateuch's eternal truths and ethical standards. Drawing on his deep knowledge of biblical research and Christian theology, he offers readers with sparkling viewpoints and interpretations that emphasize the nonsecular richness of those ancient texts. "The Gospel of the Pentateuch" is both a scholarly analysis and a spiritual guide, encouraging readers to have interaction with biblical texts in profound and significant approaches. It shows Kingsley's expertise and willpower to exploring the depths of nonsecular reality through the have a look at of sacred scripture.
The Visions, Revelations and Teachings of Angela of Foligno
Angela of Foligno was born in about 1248, twenty-two years after the death of Francis of Assisi, the saint on whom she was to model her life. With sudden deaths in her family, she felt called to follow a more religious and devout life, forsaking everything. In the years that followed she lived a life of total commitment to God. Her teachings and visions, and her deep spiritual wisdom, became internationally recognized as coming from a blessed person. This book provides the reader with a selection of Angela's visions and teachings drawn from The Divine Consolations of Angela of Foligno.
A Civic Spirituality of Sanctification
This volume presents the spirituality of John Calvin in three short texts drawn from his Institutes of the Christian Religion. Many consider Calvin the most influential thinker of the sixteenth century. His ideas flowed from Geneva into northern Europe, to the English-speaking lands of Britain, and through the Puritans to North America. The prolific writings of Calvin across several genres open up many aspects of Christian living, and each one offers an entr矇e to his spirituality. On the sup-position that "spirituality" refers to the way people or groups lead their lives in relation to ultimacy, three texts have been chosen to form the axis for this interpretation of Calvin's contribution. These texts deal with his theological view of law, a definition of sanctification, and a short treatise on the Christian life. The portrait of Calvin's spirituality that emerges from these texts and the larger framework of his theology, his ecclesiology, and his career as church leader and civic organizer can be summarized in the following phrase: a practical spirituality of sanctification by participation in society. One cannot find all of that in these texts, but they establish a platform on which the pieces fall into place. The story of his early life and formation, along with several key ideas that characterize the man and his vision, will help to draw a sharper, more distinctive picture of at least this influential aspect of Calvin's spirituality. It is one that bears direct relevance, with appropriate adjustments, to life today.
A Beginner's Guide to Loving & Healing Yourself, Everyone and the Planet Earth
Start to love & heal yourself, everyone and the planet Earth.We are living in times of great change, individually and globally. It can all seem very chaotic & frightening, leaving us feeling depressed, angry and confused.But it is also a great opportunity for us to really look at ourselves and to reconsider our lives.What is important?What do we really want?For ourselves, for others and for the planet itself?This beginner's guide is presented in a simple way and includes photos, key messages & inspirational quotes. There are also some practical exercises and eco-friendly tips & practices.It contains wisdom and a sprinkling of humour.We have this opportunity to change things now and to move forward together towards a better, wonderful world. This is the moment.
Naked Before God
When we approach God's throne, we enter into His presence in humble submission of His holiness, His glory, His majesty, His supreme authority, and His kingship. As servants of God, we do not take the opportunity to stand in His presence for granted, for this honor is only due to the shed blood of the unspotted lamb, Jesus the Christ, who stood as the propitiation for our sins, redeeming us back into proper fellowship with the divine creator. When we go before His throne and when we render ourselves for service, we are to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto Him, because it is our reasonable service (Romans 12:1). The stains and the sins of life prevent us from being holy, living sacrifices. This book will discuss some of the more prevalent conditions (fear, unforgiveness, bitterness, sexual sin, brokenness, and unfulfilled dreams) believers may be haunted by and how to be free of them.
Let Them Be Not Forgotten
They survived the Great Depression, helped win two world wars, livedthrough the birth of the space age, and witnessed the introduction ofthe internet. The real- life characters eulogized in this book were special notbecause they held prodigious political power or amassed large amounts ofwealth but precisely because they were ordinary. They walked among us largelyunknown but helped shaped and define the American character through the20th Century. Most were part of what has been called "the greatest generation"because America reached its greatest zenith during their tenure. Their eulogies, first delivered at their funerals, offer snippets from their lives which reveal theircharacter, contributions, personalities, and spiritual strength. These bits andpieces of their lives are recorded herein that these ordinary but exceptionalpeople will not be forgotten and that those who walk in their footprints orstand on their shoulders will be better able to maintain communion with them.Also contained herein are the Meditations of comfort and hope which the livesof those profiled cause us to remember.
A Beginner's Guide to Loving & Healing Yourself, Everyone and the Planet Earth
Start to love & heal yourself, everyone and the planet Earth.We are living in times of great change, individually and globally. It can all seem very chaotic & frightening, leaving us feeling depressed, angry and confused.But it is also a great opportunity for us to really look at ourselves and to reconsider our lives.What is important?What do we really want?For ourselves, for others and for the planet itself?This beginner's guide is presented in a simple way and includes photos, key messages & inspirational quotes. There are also some practical exercises and eco-friendly tips & practices.It contains wisdom and a sprinkling of humour.We have this opportunity to change things now and to move forward together towards a better, wonderful world. This is the moment.
A Bowl of Perfect Light: Stories of Forgiveness, Reconciliation and Repairing the World
All of us face an unknown future sensing we are in over our heads. Where will we find respite and repair for our broken relationships? Our Trauma? We are short on resources, connections, and the energy to cope. We hope for God's presence and abiding justice, forgiveness, and peace that binds us together as the beloved children of our God. In that hope and as we stand facing a difficult, even fearful, future, there are steps and practices for the journey that can help us. And there are stories that show us the way. Through scripture and stories from diverse traditions including the gospel narratives, Jewish midrash, Hassidic tales, Native American oral traditions, and others, theologian Megan McKenna presents insights on-and practices in-forgiveness, reconciliation, restorative justice, healing from trauma, and participation in "repairing the world." Each chapter includes reflections, practices, and questions making A Bowl of Perfect Light a helpful resource for journaling or group discussion.
Ruysbroeck
Ruysbroeck, is a classical and a rare book, that has been considered important throughout the human history, and so that this work is never forgotten we at Alpha Editions have made efforts in its preservation by republishing this book in a modern format for present and future generations. This whole book has been reformatted, retyped and redesigned. These books are not made of scanned copies of their original work, and hence their text is clear and readable. This remarkable book falls within the genres of Philosophy, Psychology, Religion, Christianity
Everyday Sacred, Everywhere Beauty: Readings from an Old Monks Journal
...if we're wise we find a book like this one ... with every hope we ever dreamed, and every word we remember of its insights, and all the joy and possibility it ever brought to all our wishes and all the promises we promised before these times to celebrate the rest of life. --from the Afterword by Joan Chittister, OSB Mary Lou Kownacki, a Benedictine nun and writing partner of Joan Chittister, was an activist in the Christian nonviolence movement and blogger of "Old Monk's Journal" a 12-year collection of personal and spiritual writings offering rare glimpses into monastic life and the best-loved feature of the Monasteries of the Heart website. These lovingly chosen selections including those when Kownacki was nearing the end of her life, offer timeless wisdom on faith, community, activism, and the things that truly matter.
Earth's Journey Into Hope: Reflections on Thomas Berry's Great Work
On the 25th anniversary of publication of Thomas Berry's The Great Work, a pioneer in ecological theology offers insights not only to Berry's work but to the vital work before all of us. While collective attention to and action for ecological justice has gained momentum in recent years it has been accompanied by a rise in despair, gloom, and an insidious fatalism in the face of multi-national intransigence. Earth's Journey into Hope considers the impact of Berry's landmark text amid the dire immediacy of present ecological crises. With Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim, Brian Edward Brown reflects on where we have been to energize today's movements for ecological well-being. For all readers concerned with this dilemma Earth's Journey into Hope provides a way forward, encouraging us to remember our cosmic past and to step into our planetary future with the spiritual energy of Thomas Berry.
The Sevenfold Peace
How can one find inner and outer peace in a world without peace? This book presents seven peace meditations based on the writings of the Essenes, as found in the Essene Gospel of Peace. The author also provides insight into the worldview of the Essenes, their teachings, and spiritual practices.
Initiation, Human and Solar
Inspired by the works of Madame Blavatsky, Alice A. Bailey, was a respected teacher in what she termed "Ageless Wisdom". This metaphysical classic is designed to lift the student to a higher state through the practice of initiation in all of its forms.
The Divine Human
The Divine Human is the human nature made divine. It is the destiny of all of humanity. The human nature, when made divine by regeneration is the corporeal sensual aspect of the self raised to the spiritual perspective of the higher-self. The intellectual aspect of the mind becomes spiritually regenerated, and then the will begins to feel divine. Our intellectual nature when made spiritual, is termed the "church." It represents our ability to will spiritual love to others as mutual-love. The goal of the Divine Human is a celestial "church," when humanity begins to feel loved. This is accomplished by the expansion of the spiritual "church" when it takes on the additional affection of charity, and the sensation of conjugial love gets implanted into the will. The experience is like Cosmic Consciousness or when the intellect gets absorbed into the One Mind. Yet, it is not until the will gets united to the One Body do we begin to feel divine. This experience is like a Samadhi realization when all sense of time and space gets removed from our memory as we unite as One. The entire process is humankind's destiny as the Age of Aquarius comes into being. We are all transformed while we sleep, and everyone both good and evil get purified as a result. Innocence gets restored to the affection of love, and the world begins to reflect the spiritual plane resulting in peace on earth, as the oneness of the Divine Human.
The Destruction of Mankind for the Rejection of the Lord and His Law
The book is about the judgement of God. Let heaven rejoice, and let the earth be glad Let the sea roar, and all its fullness Let the field be joyful and all that in it. Then all the trees of the woods will rejoice before the LORD. For He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth. He shall judge the world with righteousness and the people with His truth. God Almighty is the judge of all the earth He sees all things including the secrets of all men. He knows the motives of every heart. There is nothing that anyone can hide from Him
Walking Closer
WALKING CLOSER is a thirty-one day, daily devotional book inspired by therealization that it is God who desires a closer walk with us. It is God who wants tospend more time with us than we realize. As His children, we do not have to workour spiritual fingers to the bone to earn His love. Through Jesus, our Savior, wehave God's total love, grace, and mercy.The devotionals are written from the heart and written for the regular person facinglife's struggles. Regular, often broken people are who God uses to illustrate love, mercy, and forgiveness. These devotionals are simple, easy to understand, and usereal life experiences to convey a message of love and hope.God is chasing His children and wants to be a part of their daily lives. Let theadventure begin, for as His children, we are loved more than we could ever know.
Dear Rabbi and Susan
Intriguing, inspiring, poignant and personal. We all have questions about how best to manage the important parts of our life. We have picked 101 of the most asked and commented on Ask the Rabbi questions and put them in one jam-packed book, composed of four sections, Family, Finances, Faith and Friends.You might agree with our answers, you might not. But you will identify with the questions and we hope the answers make you think and open up hours of enjoyable and substantive discussion with your family and friends.
