LESSON 81
March 22
"I
am the light of the world."
"Forgiveness
is my function as the light of the world."
PRACTICE
SUMMARY
LONGER:
1 time, about 15 minutes
* For 3 or 4 minutes, read over the ideas and comments slowly (repeatedly if
you wish) and think about them.* Close eyes and spend remainder listening quietly and attentively. There is a message for you. Be confident you will receive it, for it belongs to you and you want it. If you have distracting thoughts realize they have no meaning or power. Replace them with your will to succeed. Trust it to carry you past distractions. If your mind still wanders, repeat first phase of exercise.
Remarks: Regard these exercises as dedication to God. Refuse to be distracted. Be determined to assume your function today.
Shorter: Frequent
First half of day: "I am the light of the world."
Second half of day: "Forgiveness is my function as the light of the world."
Response To Temptation: You may use these specific forms or your own words:
First half of day: "Let me not obscure the light of the world in me." "Let the light of the world shine through this appearance." "This shadow will vanish before the light."
Second half of the day: "Let this help me learn what forgiveness means." "Let me not separate my function from my will." "I will not use this for an alien purpose."
COMMENTARY
"I am the light of the world." Lighting up the world is my function. The Course is teaching us to remember Who we are, and to begin to live as Who we are. We are lights, and we can live as lights in this world, by our forgiveness sharing the happy news of freedom from all guilt. As St. Francis of Assissi prayed, "Lord, make me the instrument of Thy peace." May I leave everyone I meet a little brighter today. May the world seem a little less dark for everyone I encounter. May each one I touch feel more loveable as a result of meeting me. May I ask to see the light in every situation; may I respond to darkness with light."Forgiveness is my function as the light of the world." If I do not feel like the light of the world this day, let me forgive another; everyone I forgive will show me the light in myself. It's even OK that I don't yet understand what true forgiveness really is; that can't stop me if I am willing to learn, and I am willing. Every situation that seems to bring distress is a chance to learn what forgiveness really is. I don't want to use the circumstances of my day for any purpose other than God's. Let everything be grist for the mill.
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Arizona, USA.
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