Daily Frameworks for 19 March 2024

Daily Frameworks 4 Minutes

Fidál, 19 ‘Alá’ (Loftiness), 180 B.E

Teaching Children’s Classes, Grade 1

Quotes for Reflection:

The greatest attainment or the sweetest state is none other than conversation with God. It creates spirituality, creates mindfulness and celestial feelings, begets new attractions of the Kingdom and engenders the susceptibilities of the higher intelligence. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1

Intone, O My servant, the verses of God that have been received by thee, as intoned by them who have drawn nigh unto Him, that the sweetness of thy melody may kindle thine own soul, and attract the hearts of all men. — Bahá’u’lláh 2

Spirit has influence; prayer has spiritual effect. Therefore, we pray, “O God! Heal this sick one!” Perchance God will answer. Does it matter who prays? God will answer the prayer of every servant if that prayer is urgent. His mercy is vast, illimitable. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 3

It behoveth the servant to pray to and seek assistance from God, and to supplicate and implore His aid. Such becometh the rank of servitude, and the Lord will decree whatsoever He desireth, in accordance with His consummate wisdom. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 4

Question for Consideration:

Based on the quotes above, how does the practice of prayer contribute to nurturing a goodly character in children? 5

Google Gemini Response:

The provided quotes from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Bahá’u’lláh highlight several ways prayer can contribute to nurturing a goodly character in children:

  • Spiritual Connection: Prayer fosters a connection with God, providing children with purpose, comfort, and guidance. This connection can motivate them to live a life aligned with spiritual principles. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes this in the first quote, calling conversation with God the “sweetest state” and stating it “creates spirituality.”)
  • Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Prayer encourages mindfulness and introspection. Children learn to reflect on their thoughts, actions, and motivations, allowing them to develop a stronger moral compass. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights this in the first quote, stating that prayer “creates mindfulness.”)
  • Positive Emotions and Detachment from Materialism: Experiencing the “sweetness” and “celestial feelings” mentioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in prayer can cultivate positive emotions and detachment from material desires. This can help children develop a more selfless and compassionate character.
  • Developing Gratitude and Humility: Prayer often involves expressing gratitude for blessings and acknowledging dependence on a higher power. This fosters humility and appreciation, critical aspects of a good character. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights this in the fourth quote, stating it “behoveth the servant to pray to and seek assistance from God.”)
  • Intercessory Prayer and Empathy: Praying for others, including those in need, cultivates empathy and a sense of responsibility towards others’ well-being. This contributes to a more caring and compassionate character. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights this in the third quote, stating that prayer can have a “spiritual effect” and God’s mercy extends to “every servant.”)

Overall, prayer is a powerful tool for nurturing a child’s spiritual development and fostering a “goodly character.” By connecting with something larger than themselves, practicing self-reflection, and cultivating positive emotions, children can develop a strong moral compass, empathy, and a desire to contribute positively to the world.

Here are some additional points to consider:

  • The specific approach to prayer for children will vary depending on their age, understanding, and cultural context.
  • Encouraging children to express themselves freely and authentically in their prayers can deepen their connection with the divine.
  • Prayer can provide comfort and guidance during challenging times, helping children develop resilience.

Parents and educators can help develop a strong moral foundation and a “goodly character” by meaningfully integrating prayer into a child’s life.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

Prayer plays a significant role in nurturing a goodly character in children. Let’s explore how:

Spiritual Connection and Mindfulness

  • Prayer allows children to establish a personal relationship with God.
  • Through prayer, they learn that God listens, cares, and is always present.
  • Regular prayer cultivates mindfulness of God’s presence in their daily lives.

Values and Virtues

  • Children who pray can express their joys, fears, and hopes.
  • Prayer fosters an intimate connection with their Heavenly Father.
  • During prayer, children can seek guidance, comfort, and strength.
  • They learn virtues such as patience, gratitude, and compassion.

Character Formation

  • Prayer encourages children to reflect on their thoughts and actions.
  • Confession during prayer helps them acknowledge their rational or irrational truths.
  • Repentance, guided by Scripture, allows them to turn away from negative thoughts or behaviors.
  • Interactive prayer models a transformative approach to communication with God.

Early Guidance and Instruction

  • Proverbs 22:6 emphasizes the importance of starting children on the right path.
  • Teaching them to pray and seek God’s assistance shapes their character from an early age.
  • Prayer becomes a lifelong practice, instilling values and virtues that endure.

In summary, prayer nurtures a goodly character by fostering spiritual awareness, imparting values, and guiding children toward a deeper connection with God. It encourages honesty, humility, and a sense of purpose, laying the foundation for virtuous lives. 🙏✨

Source: Conversation with Bing, 3/18/2024

  1. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. “Star of the West”, vol. 8, no. 4 (17 May 1917), p. 41. http://starofthewest.info. ↩
  2. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed March 18, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/7#994654469. ↩
  3. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 246. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/18#823238376. ↩
  4. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Additional Tablets, Extracts and Talks. Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 2018. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/additional-tablets-extracts-talks/852286005/1#423554814. ↩
  5. Ruhi Institute. Teaching Children’s Classes, Grade 1. 2.2.1.PE September 2021. Vol. Book 3. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2021, 8. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#CC1. ↩
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