David Hoffmeister clarifies the distinction between “error” and “sin.” Error is a mistake that is correctible, but sin is a belief that there is something dark and devious that is stronger than Love. This is a crazy idea! David shares how our only function is acceptance the correction—the grace is already there! So, how does one practically experience this truth? By giving one’s mind over to Spirit, we open to the joy of true service.
Service
Being of True Service
The sense of service can be a helpful step as a backdrop for watching the mind. Everything is thought, and really, the service is learning how to forgive and release attack thoughts. “I can escape from the world I see by giving up attack thoughts.” (W-23) Service cannot be judged in terms of form. True service is an alignment in purpose.
In the Flow of Miracles
David relates a miracle parable.
Service
There is a high burnout rate in the field of Social Service because it is often mixed with the ego. Don’t serve because you think there is a need. Release misperceptions from your mind. See your brothers’ wholeness and completeness. When you are in divine service you are inspired. David said “yes” to Spirit and was in joy in his world travels. If you are happy, the whole world is too. All service is Self service.
One True Source
You have only one true Source. As you approach the healing of the mind, you are doing a service to the whole of mankind. Your family of origin may have been a strong focus before, but now your focus “softens” or widens and begins to take on universal proportions. God did not create this world; it is a world of idolatry. We have “idolized” concepts such as romantic love and traditional family values. Don’t worry about the biblical “golden calf.” Far greater idols are concepts like “mom” and “dad.”
Suicidal Depression without Judgment
Allow yourself to feel what you feel without judging it. Don’t conclude anything about your identity as a result. Suicidal depression is the conclusion that your life is worthless, but your ego laughs and pursues you beyond the grave. Just let the feelings come and go, release them.
Stressed about Money
The state of your bank account can seem to have a lot of power over your mental health. When you’re stressed about money, you might feel tired, anxious, angry, abandoned, or afraid about the future. Fear is tied into a belief in lack, so you believe you need things. Money buys things that seem to meet the needs. As you sleep in this dreamworld, money seems to sustain you. You think you need it. This is the compromise of the world that keeps you in fear.
Devotion
The Holy Spirit is not a form. Devotion is not directed to a teacher or image. Give each day to the Holy Spirit. Ask the Holy Spirit for the miracle of experiencing perfect equality with everyone you meet. Giving yourself over to the practice of the ACIM lessons can be a devotion. Pray and follow guidance. God is not a personality. The way to worship God is to practice forgiveness and be as God created you. Be peaceful. See your Self beyond the body.
No Spiritual Career
The ego wants to highjack your spiritually. Moment to moment, attend to your forgiveness practice, not to form. It is always your lesson. You cannot have a spiritual career. Dis-identify with possessions. Purification of thought and obedience to Spirit are the goal. There is no sacrifice involved.
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