Daily Frameworks for 22 October 2023

Jamál, 07 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Bahá’ís are engaged in cities and villages across the globe in establishing a pattern of life in which increasing numbers, irrespective of background, are invited to take part. This pattern, expressive of the dynamic coherence between the material and spiritual dimensions of life, includes classes for the spiritual education of children in which they also develop a deep appreciation for the fundamental unity of the various world religions; groups that assist young people to navigate a crucial stage of their lives and to withstand the corrosive forces that especially target them; circles of study wherein participants reflect on the spiritual nature of existence and build capacity for service to the community and society; gatherings for collective worship that strengthen the devotional character of the community; and, in time, a growing range of endeavours for social and economic development. This pattern of community life is giving rise to vibrant and purposeful new communities wherein relationships are founded on the oneness of mankind, universal participation, justice, and freedom from prejudice. All are welcome. The process which is unfolding seeks to foster collaboration and build capacity within every human group—with no regard to class or religious background, with no concern for ethnicity or race, and irrespective of gender or social status—to arise and contribute to the advancement of civilization. — Universal House of Justice ¹

Question for Consideration:

Can you say a few words about each of the following ideas, in the context of hosting a devotional meeting?

Extending warm and loving invitations…

Creating a welcoming environment…

Maintaining an atmosphere of reverence…

Promoting joyful fellowship…

Encouraging spiritually uplifting conversation… ²

Google Bard Response:

Extending warm and loving invitations

When hosting a devotional meeting, it is important to extend warm and loving invitations to everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. We can do this by personally inviting people, sending out email invitations, or posting flyers in the community. We should also make sure to let people know that they are welcome to bring their friends and family.

Creating a welcoming environment

Once people arrive at the devotional meeting, it is important to create a welcoming environment. We can do this by greeting people warmly, offering them refreshments, and providing them with a comfortable place to sit. We should also make sure that the space is clean and tidy.

Maintaining an atmosphere of reverence

Devotional meetings are sacred spaces where people come together to connect with God. As such, it is important to maintain an atmosphere of reverence. This means that we should be mindful of our tone of voice, body language, and behavior. We should also avoid distractions such as cell phones and other electronic devices.

Promoting joyful fellowship

Devotional meetings are also a time for fellowship. We can promote joyful fellowship by encouraging people to get to know each other and to share their thoughts and feelings. We can also do this by playing games, singing songs, or telling stories.

Encouraging spiritually uplifting conversation

Devotional meetings are a great opportunity to have spiritually uplifting conversations. We can encourage these conversations by discussing the verses of God, sharing our spiritual experiences, and reflecting on the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. We can also do this by asking open-ended questions and listening attentively to each other’s responses.

By following these tips, we can create a devotional meeting that is welcoming, respectful, and spiritually uplifting.

Here are some additional ideas for extending warm and loving invitations, creating a welcoming environment, maintaining an atmosphere of reverence, promoting joyful fellowship, and encouraging spiritually uplifting conversation:

• Start by welcoming everyone to the meeting with a warm smile and a friendly greeting.
• Offer refreshments and snacks. This is a great way to break the ice and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Provide a comfortable place to sit. This could be on chairs, cushions, or on the floor.
• Set the tone for the meeting by reciting a prayer or reading a verse from the Holy Writings.
• Encourage people to share their thoughts and feelings. This could be done through open-ended questions, discussion groups, or journaling.
• Be mindful of your own tone of voice and body language. Speak in a respectful and reverent manner, and avoid making distractions.
• Be patient and understanding. Some people may be new to devotional meetings or may be uncomfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Give them time to adjust and feel comfortable in the space.
  

By following these tips, we can create a devotional meeting that is a welcoming and supportive space for everyone.

1. Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Social Action.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 2020. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/social-action/3#957685523. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 24-25. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩