Esoteric Advent

ESOTERIC LENT

Begins Wednesday, February 14, 2024

LETTER OF INVITATION - CLICK HERE

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welcome to esoteric Advent ~ lent

spiritual RITUALs AND TEACHINGS for the new age

ParT ONE

40 Days to Palm Sunday and Easter Holy Week

THREE COMPONENTS TO LENT - PART ONE

◊ Daily Meditation Alignment - CLICK HERE (right Click to Open a New Tab). The Charts depicting the Spiritual Triad will also be found here. With practice, the two meditations (Acme of Alignment and Group Alignment) can be done in 10 minutes or less, or longer if you desire to put more time into them. [Edited 2/16/2024]

◊ Contemplations — Diamond Soul Practices — Service in Daily Living. Scroll down below. Choose one or more. Have a Journal ready.

◊ Spiritual Study — is interspersed with the Diamond Soul Practices, or a link is provided for more.

In the teachings of the Master (DK), “Mary” refers to Mother Matter or Earth. Some song renditions of Ave Maria are so pure, they bring us into sacred space, and the realm of high Angels. The quality of PURITY in the vibrational notes assists in the purification and sanctification of the matter within us. We are lifting matter on High, and purifying our cells as Holy Mother substance prepares our vehicles for the eventual descent of Spirit into a purified form.

ORIENTATION

Our orienting thought everyday through all the 40 days and Easter Holy Week shall be:

The CALL TO DISCIPLINE and “TO THE CONSTANT EFFORT TO LIVE AT THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE POINT ALL THE TIME.”

NOTE: In the eyes of the Master, it is not accomplishment, results or perfection that is important in our spiritual endeavor at this time. Our constant effort to do so is what counts most, knowing that the rest will naturally and inevitably follow in due process.

In these preparatory times for the “Appearing” of The Christ and the Great Ones — we consecrate our Esoteric Lenten process. We are renewed in the “call to discipline” and to “the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time” (in the TRUE SOUL of the Spiritual Triad). A great alignment takes place. A current flows through us.

As we engage in our spiritual practices, each according to our ability and higher will, of utmost importance is the discipline of conscious choice for what we attend to — and the discipline of consciously standing in RESONANCE with the Great Ones as the Soul Star Group “walking together” in the AURA of the CHRIST.

Upon the altar of a purified Mind and Heart, we can expect revelations of Love, Truth, Beauty, the Good, and the spiritual power of Spirit to fill us full with renewing Life energy. Awakening gratitude for the continuity of the life current pouring through us, our sphere of daily living will likewise be more connected to the Great Chain of Being.

we BEGIN

Ritual Self-Consecration. The origins of Ash Wednesday in the traditions of the church come from using Palm ashes burned the previous year. The ashes are intended to remind everyone of their failures and sins, to inspire humility and to do better by repenting. In our work, we spiral the meaning of this ritual up several levels by first recognizing our essential Divinity, committing to purification and reconsecrating ourselves to living as a Soul walking the planes of Earth.

Some may want to begin this week with a simple daily ritual. Have nearby some water from a sacred source, blessed water, or water you have blessed with a prayer intention. Also, you may want to add a special essential oil (EO) of your choosing, such as Rose Oil.

Cup your left hand (if right handed or v.v.) and pour a few drops of water into the well of your hand. If you have a favorite EO, add a drop into the water in your hand. Dip the forefinger of your other hand into the well of water (with EO) and anoint yourself by imaginatively tracing a Cross of Light over the Ajna Center (middle of forehead). With the remaining water, anoint your hands and wrists until the liquid is gone. Be conscious that you are embarking upon a new phase of spiritual disciplines, spiraling Higher / Deeper on the Path of the Soul and Spirit, leading to renewed Life.

◊ SOUNDING AN OM ~ IN THE SACRED SPACE OF OUR HOLY HEART MIND, WE LIGHT A LIGHT UNTO LOVE AND LIFE.

LET US BEGIN WITH A TRUE PRAYER INTENTION ~

Heavenly Father/Mother God, IN THIS NEW BEGINNING, as we open ourselves to receive your Blessings, may the Love and Light of the higher Worlds be with us NOW on this sacred journey of learning to ‘live at the Highest Point Possible’.

May we come closer to knowing the inner Light of liberation, develop our soul powers and attain mastery. May a vaster and wider experience of realization open inside us. May we come to know ourselves as a “Son of God, Christ in manifestation”. “Forgetting the things which are behind, we press forward” towards a higher goal. May we come to know what it truly means to ‘stand firm in true spiritual consciousness’. AMEN / OM

[Light of the Soul, Book III, pp 359/361]

Contemplations, Diamond Soul Practices and Service in Daily Living

Some may prefer the note “G” — the Love note of the Universe ever sounding forth by the Solar Logos.

All is One.

ʘ

“I call you to discipline … AND to the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time.”

PART I - WEEK ONE

DAYS ONE and TWO (Wednesday and Thursday):

"This work," Christ said, "goeth not forth save by prayer and fasting."  I call you to prayer and to meditation for both are needed today, fusing as they do the emotional and mental bodies into one aspiring whole. I call you to discipline, for that is the meaning of fasting and to the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time; this is so often a dream but not often a fact. Today, in the hour of the world's need, aspirants and disciples who are willing to make at least consistent, persistent effort are needed by humanity and the Hierarchy.”    (EOH, 353) CONTEMPLATE

From Alice Bailey: The Unfinished Autobiography:

“Personally, though I am recognised all over the world as a teacher of meditation I have at the same time never relinquished my habit of prayer. I believe that the true occultist uses prayer and meditation interchangeably according to need and that both are equally important in the spiritual life. The trouble with prayer has been that the average human being makes it entirely a selfish thing and a means of acquisition of things for the separated self. True prayer asks nothing for the separated self but it will always be used by those who seek to help others. Some people are too superior to pray and regard meditation as far more exalted and more fitted to their high point of development.

For me it has always been enough that Christ not only prayed but taught us the Lord's Prayer. To me, also, meditation is a mental process whereby one can acquire clear knowledge of divinity and awareness of the kingdom of souls, or the kingdom of God. It is the mode of the head and of the mind and is greatly needed by the unthinking people of the world. Prayer is of the emotional nature and of the heart and is universally used for the satisfaction of desire. Both should be used by the aspiring disciples of the world. Later I will touch upon Invocation which is the synthesis of the two.”

Reflecting upon fusing the emotional/mental body into “one aspiring whole” utilizing prayer and meditation, let us be open to new ways of prayer and meditation during this period.

Consider how ‘fusing into one aspiring whole’ the feeling and mental bodies can be a mechanism for what you want to manifest and Be through service.

In light of the above, what are your aspirations?

During this period, notice new aspirations rising in the light of your heart-mind.

∆

DAILY, Be affirmed in the Master Teacher's counsel: 

‘I am called to discipline — the meaning of fasting, and to the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time.’

In these early days of fasting, what must we ‘fast from’ in order to so live?

What disciplines support your “constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time”?

~ KEEP A JOURNAL ~

OM

PRAYER, FASTING, ABSTINENCE

Contemplate the following in terms of the Lenten process. 

(FBTC), 97): “In an ancient treatise upon meditation, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, we find the teacher proclaiming, "Through purification comes also a quiet spirit ... and ability to see the Self." 10

“Purification is of many kinds and degrees. There is physical purity and moral purity, and there is also that magnetic purity which makes a man a channel for spiritual force. There is psychic purity, which is a rare thing to find, and mental purity.  The word "purity" comes from the Sanskrit word pur, which means freedom from alloy, from limitation and from the imprisoning of the spirit in the chains of matter. There can be no achievement without purification; there is no possibility of our seeing and manifesting divinity without passing through the waters that cleanse.”

◊ Consider Purity as freedom from limitation and the imprisoning chains of matter upon the Spirit as we absorb and integrate —

Physical purity

Moral Purity

Magnetic purity which makes man a channel for spiritual force

Psychic purity

Mental purity

These elements constitute our Lenten process.

Let us remember that Purity is freedom from alloy. Let us observe in ourselves what the Soul is “calling to discipline”. Which of the above “purities” call for the most attention? Through our effort to live at the highest possible point, we achieve purity. During this period, notice the “purities” that are touched, spurred, stimulated, or enhanced.

◊ Throughout these days, let us expect a growing sense of freedom from alloy — from the limitations and imprisoning chain of matter, thereby gaining freedom and release to soar high in Spirit.

◊ Today, pause to Contemplate: "Through purification comes also a quiet spirit.“

What is meant by quiet spirit?

Today, BE QUIET IN SPIRIT

∆

FEBRUARY 16/17

DAYS THREE AND FOUR (Friday and Saturday):

Observe how Meditation (III) creates a condition for “quiet spirit”.

Pause to Contemplate: ‘Through purification comes the ability to see, to know the Self’. 

How would purification — the freedom from alloy, bring a heightened ability to know / experience the Self?

What Self do we see, experience, come to Know? What would change?

What else are you noticing (aware of) through the Diamond Soul Practice of “‘I am called to discipline — the meaning of fasting, and the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time”?

Consider how True Alignment brings cleansing and the promised ability to “see” — to experience, to know the Self. 

True alignment widens the channel to God. This channel is the bridge, the Antahkarana, spoken about in Meditation III — The Acme of Alignment, that both builds and closes the gap between the ‘Soul-infusing Personality’ and ‘The True Soul (the Spiritual Triad)’ of the Monad.

Heightened Discernment allows for conscious registration of God Immanent in ever greater Glory.

Heightened Discernment is conditioned by our disciplined effort to “live at the highest possible point all the time”.

As the veils drop away, as a fuller relationship of Identify “As the Self” grows, we come to know the “Self” of the Spiritual Triad — the Three in One.

Let us remember, let us make space for a ‘quiet spirit’ in all our days.

∆

[Edited 2/16/2024]

TODAY and NEXT DAYS

◊ In the Days ahead, we consider daily living:

“In the world today a great cleansing is going on. An "ascetic purification" and an enforced abstinence from much that has hitherto been deemed desirable, is going on in the world, and none of us can escape it. This is due to the breakdown of the economic system and the many other systems which are proving ineffectual in the modern world. Purification is being forced upon us, and as a consequence a truer sense of values must eventuate. A cleansing from wrong ideals, a racial purification from dishonest standards and undesirable objectives, is being powerfully applied at this time. Perhaps this means that many in the race today are going down to Jordan, to enter its purifying waters. A self-applied ascetic purification, and the recognition of its value by the pioneers of the human family, may succeed in leading them to the portal of initiation."    (FBTC), 97)

As we go about our days, aware of “the call to discipline and the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time”:

We are reinforcing “The Self” as Observer. As the Observer, we easily detach from desires and outcomes, and can readily See what is prominent for purification — and what mustn’t escape the clear light and fire of purification.

See what harbors in the emotional and mental bodies.

What comes into the Observers orb during these days?

The Soul sends opportunities for purification. They rise in our awareness. Let us not ignore them.

— look into it — see what is wanting to be seen.

— does it need to be felt and lived through a purificatory fires?

— does it need re-framing to eventuate a “truer sense of values”? What is the higher ideal, or value?

Bring the Soul Ideal into “the Presence of the Heart” for cultivation. When lived, it continues to find fuller expression through you.

Soul Ideals present themselves in our lives as opportunities for cultivation. For a circumstance, or area of personal or social responsibility, clothe what comes to mind with an “ideal” word phrase.

Purification often has us see or experience an opposite to the ideal, that which is not. Irritation or annoyance that builds over nothing, asks for patience and detachment. Boredom that dulls the mind asks for alertness, aliveness and the play of life. Superiority that produces Inequality asks to see the soul.

These lead to group expressions. Cultivating what is good for all — economic sharing for the peoples of the earth, resources accessible to benefit whole societies, education leaving no one behind. True spiritual values governing politics and business close doors to corruption and selfishness. It takes a village to raise a child — it takes a village to care for our elders. Because we are human, mistakes are made and Restorative Justice brings dignity to growth. Forgiveness is a force that allows love to heal and elevate.

Cultivating these thoughts in ourselves spreads a leavening agent around the world.

Higher Values and Virtues are living Lights. When streaming through Humanity, they catch fire. All are preparatory to harmony, peace, fulfillment and the realization of a higher order of living.

∆

FOR STUDY: ASSERTING THE FACT OF PLEDGED DISCIPLESHIP — CLICK HERE

FOR PRACTICE:

“Once they have been dominated, all that remains is right orientation and polarization in the soul.”

As long as we identify ourselves with our emotions — our moods and feelings, reactions to desires — to that degree will we have “moments of despair, of darkness, of doubt, of dire distress, and of depression … all due to delusion, to the glamour of the astral plane, which distorts, reverses and deceives.  There is no need to dwell on this.  If there is one factor aspirants recognize, it is the need of freeing themselves from the Great Illusion.  Arjuna knew this, yet succumbed to despair.  Yet in his hour of need, Krishna failed him not, but laid down in the Gita the simple rules whereby depression and doubt can be overcome.  They may be briefly summarized as follows:”

◊ “Know thyself to be the undying One.”

◊ “Control thy mind, for through that mind the undying One can be known.”

◊ “Learn that the form is but the veil which hides the splendour of Divinity.”

◊ “Realise that the One Life pervades all forms so that there is no death, no distress, no separation.”

◊ “Detach thyself therefore from the form side and come to Me, so dwelling in the place where Light and Life are found.  Thus illusion ends.”

TWM, 308

Oh magic tree, what have you to tell me?

“Don’t give up.”

On who or what?

“On your Self.“

ESOTERIC LENT

Part II — Week Two

FEBRUARY 18

SUNDAY

THE SPHERE OF RADIATION

"The "sphere of radiation" [aura] is a potent instrument in service, and its extent and purity of contact should be cultivated by the pledged disciple.  There is true [esoteric] teaching in the statement in The New Testament that "the shadow of Peter passing by healed." His aura was of such a nature that it had a beneficent effect wherever and whenever it touched or contacted those in his environment. The control of the Christ over His aura was such that "He knew when virtue had gone out of Him"—He knew, therefore, that healing energies had poured through one of His centres to a needy person or group of persons.“

“It is the aura, and its potency of attraction, and its stability, which also holds a group together, which also keeps an audience listening, and which makes an individual of importance along some definite line of approach to his fellowmen. The "sphere of radiation" is easily determined by those who seek it out and who watch the effect of the radiation upon people in their community and environment. One highly emotional person, working through an overdeveloped and uncontrolled solar plexus centre, can wreck a home or an institution. I give this as an illustration. One radiant, creative life, consciously using the heart or the throat centres, can carry inspiration to hundreds. These are points well worth careful consideration."

"You must, however, bear in mind that these centres are brought into activity by the cultivation of certain major virtues, and not by meditation or concentration upon the centres.  They [the centres] are brought automatically into the needed radiatory condition by right living, high thinking and loving activity. These virtues may seem to you dull and uninteresting, but they are most potent and scientifically effective in bringing the centres into the desired radiatory activity.  When the task is done, and when all the centres are living spheres of outgoing, radiatory activity, they swing into each others' orbit so that the initiate becomes a centre of living light and not a composite of seven radiant centres. Think on this." (Telepathy and the Etheric Vehicle, 174/5)

∆

LET US CONTEMPLATE VIRTUE.  During this Lenten season, purification can come through an emphasis on “right living, high thinking and loving activity" — which in turn increases the "sphere of radiation". Ponder on this.

◊ Now consider what soul virtue(s) is calling to be a point of focus. What is being “called” to increase in your life in the context of “right living, high thinking and loving activity”.

CONFIRM — I place my life upon the altar of “right living, high thinking and loving activity"“.

CONFIRM — all that I have to give, first flows through my radiatory influence.

Doing so, let us move deeper into the Holy Fire and Living Potency of the World Teacher Whose “sphere of radiation” radiates the Light of the World, expresses the potency of magnetic Love, streams living waters of Life …

All are embraced by the Holy emanations and radiation of the Lord of Love, Whose sphere of influence fans the flame of every pledged disciple towards higher livingness.

◊ Throughout these 40 Days, let us Be consciously growing the power of Blessed Silence whilst cultivating the ‘aura of radiation’.

"The "sphere of radiation" is a potent instrument in service, and its extent and purity of contact should be cultivated by the pledged disciple.”

◊ In the Diamond Soul Practice of cultivating and envisioning ourselves as “spheres of radiation” … We ACT AS IF … until the fact is born.

∞

TODAY — review meaningful highlights from Week One — bring them into the second week.

MONDAY (FEB 19, 2024)

COMMUNICATION NOTE

Let us remember that Esoteric Lent is not about “giving things up” or letting go of something desirable for the personality, or meeting personality goals. Our work here is much deeper and broader than this. We come closer to the real meaning and purpose of ESOTERIC LENT when we understand that we are cultivating a fuller and deeper contact with the True-Soul, and its expression in the world. Virtues arise from the Soul. The Soul finds expression here and now through “right living, high thinking and loving activity”.

We presuppose the “giving of up things” has been largely accomplished through past disciplines on the probationary path, and if there is more to do, it drops away or dies of atrophy from non-attention as the focus moves to grander vistas and concerns that are not part of the self-oriented persona. The Soul cares about the Plan, about the big picture. Yet it is grounded in the particular. From the “Universal to the particular” is a natural outcome of living as a Soul, working for the Plan.

As we continue with the Lenten process of a “call to prayer and discipline” through “the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time”, let us be aware that we are also “fasting from” limiting beliefs and narrow constructs that limit our perception of the true nature of reality.

We are engaged in a process of removal and building. We remove what stands in the way obstructing access to the Soul. And we build in what allows for full access by cultivating soul attitudes, soul attributes, soul virtues, soul senses, soul pathways … to live as a Soul. Living in the world is extraordinarily difficult if we forget this. And it is equally difficult for the Soul to live in a world that is foreign to Itself.

Aiming high over a prolonged period produces a ‘steady state’. “Identification with” and “as spirit” naturally gives rise to course corrections along the way. Difficulties will come into our experience, the past will assail us. Our discipline is to bring it into the light of the Soul for purification — to purify the pattern, the reaction, the ignorance or darkness. This is an ongoing process. During this time, the unhealed past or unintegrated parts of ourselves will rise into conscious awareness. Take heart, it’s not you — not the real you. It is the process in you working its way out. Expect this to happen during this period and method dedicated to purification and the discipline of holding the highest note possible. It should go without saying that ruminating on a grievance, or turning something over and over in mind and emotions is not permitted. Rather, we bring it into the heart-mind for ‘understanding, healing, righting and wholing’. Alchemy transforms it, or we release it, or it dies of atrophy, and we onward move.

The old way of working from the bottom up is finally reversed in True-Soul/Spirit Identification as we experience a Soul Take-Over. As we live in the high altitude of the Soul, high purpose fills the mind — always. Soul vision guides the way forward - always. Clarity is present. Desire becomes “devotion to the Real alone,” working its way — all the way, through — into the present.

As we “strive” for higher contact, we are conditioned by these higher energies and the downward distribution sanctifies our lives.

Let us think about our disciplines as a form of spiritual “striving.” Identification with a higher state of Being is a “movement” into a greater Love … a greater Light … a greater Will and Silence. After which a merging, blending and integration ensues — to live in.

◊ ◊ ◊

MONDAY - continued

Today, above all, be consciously Aware of the theme of Esoteric Lent, and let us think of each other in this way:

"This work," Christ said, "goeth not forth save by prayer and fasting."  I call you to prayer and to meditation for both are needed today, fusing as they do the emotional and mental bodies into one aspiring whole.”

“I call you to discipline, for that is the meaning of fasting and to the constant effort to live at the highest possible point all the time; this is so often a dream but not often a fact. Today, in the hour of the world's need, aspirants and disciples who are willing to make at least consistent, persistent effort are needed by humanity and the Hierarchy.”    (EOH, 353)

◊ ◊ ◊

CONTEMPLATE

Leaves of Morya’s Garden – Illumination (Book Two)

“One must manifest discipline of spirit; without it one cannot become free. To the slave, discipline of spirit will be a prison; to the liberated one it will be a wondrous healing garden. So long as the discipline of spirit is as fetters, the doors are closed, for in fetters one cannot ascend the steps.

One understands the discipline of spirit as wings.

Whosoever will comprehend the discipline of spirit as illumination of the future worlds is already prepared.

He who has envisioned evolution will approach it carefully, joyously brushing away the dust on the path. Most important, there will be no fear in him. And rejecting the unnecessary he will acquire simplicity. It is easy to understand that the realization of evolution is always beautiful.

Again they will ask: “Why at the beginning of the path is so much that is pleasant accorded and so much forgiven?” It is because in the beginning all fires are full blown and the called one walks as a torch. It is up to him to choose the quality of his fire. He who comprehends the discipline of spirit will understand the direction of the fire and will approach the cooperation for the General Good. The end of the path can be illumined by a thousand fires of the General Good. These thousand fires will light the rainbow of the aura. Therefore, the discipline of spirit [has] wings!

CONTEMPLATE

Select a line — a key thought or idea.  Enter into it to penetrate further ... allow its meaning to wash over you and through you, speak to you, penetrate you, and in due time, be given away. 

Suggested immersion. Take one Diamond Soul Practice for this day:

◊ The discipline of Spirit is a Healing Garden.  Entering the Garden, we are liberated, freed of the fetters of the lower worlds. Freed, I have wings. Enter your Garden often today.

◊ “He who has envisioned evolution will approach it carefully, joyously brushing away the dust on the path.” He who has envisioned Initiation will approach it joyously, moving fast upon the way with speed and directed purpose focused on the goal.

◊ Through the Discipline of Spirit, we joyously brush away the dust on the path and the dust in the eyes of our brother — for his joy is my joy coming forth in greater array.

With the virtue of “loving understanding”, I see through life.

As I consider the dust on my path … what must I relinquish, release, remove, let go of — to throw into the fire that burns all dross, thus raising myself unto a higher fire of livingness?

◊ Removing the unnecessary … simplicity is acquired.

Today, I remove the “unnecessary” to reveal the beauty, purity and potency of Simplicity.

TUESDAY

Be immersed in one Diamond Soul Practice for this day.

To be free of lower vibrations, one must ‘stand in — be in’ the constancy of Love. 

“Perfect Love casteth out all fear”

The Perfect Love of the Monad (the Spirit that is the True Self) casts out all fear in the magnetic aura — dispelling evil, removing the dross of the lower self. The dweller who binds us to the lower worlds cannot forever stand in the powers of the real and the true. All that does not fit the perfect pattern of the archetype is washed away, burned away, transmuted, transformed, transfigured, and relinquished.

◊ Today, step into the revelation of Who we Are — and can Be in service, in the agency of the Christ.

How does one do this? Where does one begin?

We begin with the high thought and conviction — “Love has no opposite.”

Fear cannot abide in Love. Having no fear, we create no obstacles to the constancy of Love.

As we move deep inside the field of Love, we find the Self.

◊ He who comprehends the discipline of spirit will understand the direction of the fire and will approach in cooperation for the General Good.

The torches of Love, Living Light and Holy Will are living Fires cooperating with the general Good.

In cooperation deep, I stand among the thousands of illuminating fires, lighting the rainbow aura of the general Good.  Affirming the discipline of Spirit, we are illumining the present-future. 

◊ Through the "Discipline of Spirit" I am liberated, and set free. I have the wings of freedom. 

“The intent of the [Kingdom of Souls] is to increase men's capacity for freedom in order to function effectively with that "life more abundantly" which the Christ will bring and which demands that the spirit of man be free—free to approach divinity and free also to choose the Way of that approach.” TEV, 197 CONTEMPLATE

∞

STUDY

Let us remember the proven method of — Meditation, Study and Service — for Soul living and accelerating unfoldment. Immersing ourselves in deeper study fulfills one aspect of this formula, and stimulates and dovetails with the others.

The depth and richness of study in the section that follows is garnered from the teachings of Master DK in the book TELEPATHY and the ETHERIC VEHICLE (TEV). As earnest student/disciples, we are deepening our understanding of the activation of the Centers. Let us remember that we are also building the antahkarana to Spirit / Monad through Meditation III.

As we continue, may we enter new depths of knowledge that lead to understanding and expansions in consciousness. We are “impressing” the Heart-Mind with Truths REFLECTING “high thinking” for the evolving Mind of Christ to flower forth in us.

It is valuable to study what follows to be reminded of the major conditioning precepts of the inner universe. If these ideas are new to you, it will stretch your mind and open new vistas. Unfamiliar terms can be daunting at first, but they will become clear in due time and will ‘speak to you‘ beyond the surface of the concrete mind. If we are re-reading these ideas again, we soon come to the realization that these teachings are alive, infiltrating our consciousness as they do with Truths that expand our spiritual perception. In due time, our minds come en rapport with a greater, more inclusive universal Mind of deep intelligence — known by the Knowers as the omniscience of deity. To be immersed in these themes as a Group, infiltrates the group and brings to heart-mind with greater ease a deeper understanding of the living truths and energies of the living universe. We in turn impress the field of humanity with our awakened perception.

Soaking on the deeper meaning and significances revealed in this deep field of study, when merged with intentional practices, contemplations and reflections, we are heightened individually and as a group through “high thinking.” Lifted by the revelatory understanding of the Master, we give an antidote to our troubled world as we irradiate the human thought field with “high thinking.” Let us remember our goal — to be a “relaying channel in the divine flow”.

Know that as a Soul Group we are engaged in a “group endeavor” of learning together, that is joined to walking through purificatory fires together. In the discipline of prayer and fasting, we are giving added fire to our “spiritual approach” to divinity. The conditioning and impression by, and upon, our group soul made by the higher Truths of the Trans-Himalayan Love-Wisdom teachings, and the magical process of the “call to discipline” that we are engaged in should not be underestimated.

◊ ◊ ◊

PLEASE NOTE: Wednesday begins Day One of the 7-day Solar Full Moon of Pisces ritual for Group Approach to Divinity. The Full Moon (FM) of Pisces/Virgo is Saturday, FEBRUARY 24, 2024 (One day later in the southern hemisphere).

We have the option to proceed with the following Study as described below, or take up the discipline of the 7-Day Full Moon process. CLICK HERE for Letter of Invitation for Pisces 7-Day FM Group Approach.

The 7-Day Solar Full Moon Ritual of Group Approach to Divinity process can be found on this website in the tab titled “7-Day Full Moon Ritual Approaches”.

If you wish to participate but did not receive a Letter of Invitation (because you are new to Esoteric Advent and are not on the Master Mailing List), please register by filling out the form on the RSVP tab. You will then be placed on the Master List for future invitations to participate.

Greetings Friends -

All who are consciously treading “the ways of [the human kingdom], knowing the ways of God” are supported and held by the Hierarchy “as we walk with Them”. The Heart of God and Angelic kingdoms are streaming a continuous outpouring to Humanity. Never alone, our joyful striving whilst holding ourselves steady in the light and Love of God places us inside a wholesome, potent energy field.

For some, the Full Moon process — its lengthy meditations with practices, may seem “too much”. If so, please heed some experienced advice. Work intuitively and intelligently. Much information found in the daily practices are meant to instruct and expand upon the major elements of the Love-Wisdom Teachings for application in our lives, understand what Humanity is undergoing, and align more firmly and deeply with the Spiritual Hierarchy. Let us keep in mind that the meditation forms are meant to deepen and move us in the direction of living more fully as Souls in concert with the great Lives and energies informing our universe and our Earth Humanity specifically.

Keep in mind that the meditation “forms” are meant to serve us, not the other way around — we are not meant to serve the form. So then, enter deeply into a practice that inspires you. Do your best with the meditations — learn their structure (the main elements) by heart and then move freely through them with ‘living facility’ — not painstaking labor. If you have to choose between the Meditations and the practices, choose the meditations since they are designed to invoke the energy of the spiritual Hierarchy.

During this Solar Full Moon of Pisces, let us be cognizant of the “saving force” released by the Christ into the world. Let us remember that we are relaying channels for its flow into the world.

Blessings to one and all,

H

◊ ◊ ◊

(study in lieu of the 7-day Full Moon Process)

WEDNESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY

TEACHING FROM “TEV” FOR THIS WEEK …. 3 documents here for STUDY

Telepathy and the Etheric Vehicle (TEV) / by Alice A. Bailey communicated by the Master DK — three excerpted chapters for group study, immersion and alignment.

The following excerpts give the physics to “right living, high thinking and loving activity” producing the RADIATION in the centers of the etheric vehicle. These studies illuminate our understanding and beautifully correspond with “Med III” for building the bridge — the antahkarana, to the Monad — the ONE SELF.

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1. TEACHING ON THE ETHERIC BODY (TEV) — CLICK HERE — PDF DOCUMENT

2. THE BASIS OF NON-SEPARATENESS (TEV) — CLICK HERE — PDF DOCUMENT

3. THE PLANETARY LIFE — A Centre in the Solar System (TEV) CLICK HERE — PDF DOCUMENT

NOTE: The Diamond Soul / Contemplative practices for Wednesday through Sunday correlate to the third document, “The Planetary Life”.

THE BASIS OF NON-SEPARATENESS

Pg 148/59

“The use of the creative imagination is of value here. It may not give a true picture on all points, but it will convey one great reality. The reality to which I refer is that there is no possible separateness in our manifested planetary life—or elsewhere for that matter, even beyond our planetary ring-pass-not. The concept of separateness, of individual isolation, is an illusion of the unillumined human mind. Everything—every form, every organism within all forms, all aspects of manifested life in every kingdom in nature—is intimately related each to each through the planetary etheric body (of which all etheric bodies are integral parts) which substands all that is. Little as it may mean, and useless as it may appear, the table at which you write, the flower you hold in your hand, the horse on which you ride, the man to whom you talk, are sharing with you the vast circulatory life of the planet as it streams into, through and out of every aspect of the form nature. The only differences which exist are those in consciousness, and peculiarly so in the consciousness of man and of the Black Lodge. There is only the ONE LIFE, pouring through the mass of forms which, in their sum total, constitute our planet—as we know it.

All forms are related, inter-related and interdependent; the planetary etheric body holds them together so that a cohesive, coherent, expressive Whole is presented to the eye of man, or one great unfolding consciousness to the perception of the Hierarchy. Lines of light pass from form to form. Some are bright and some are dim; some move or circulate with rapidity, others are lethargic and slow in their [Page 149] interplay; some seem to circulate with facility in some particular kingdom in nature and some in another; some come from one direction and some from a different one, but all are in movement all the time; it is a constant circulation. All are passing on and into and through, and there is not one single atom in the body which is not the recipient of this living, moving energy; there is no single form that is not "kept in shape and livingness" by this determined inflow and outflow, and there is therefore no part of the body of manifestation (which is an integral part of the planetary vehicle of the Lord of the World) which is not in complex but complete touch with HIS divine intention—through the medium of HIS three major centres: Shamballa, the Hierarchy, and Humanity. In the multiplicity of the forms of which His great composite vehicle is composed, there is no need for Him to be in conscious touch. It is, however, possible, should He so desire it, but it would profit Him not, any more than it would profit you to be in conscious touch with some atom in some organ of your physical body. He works, however, through His three major centres: Shamballa, the planetary head centre; the Hierarchy, the planetary heart centre; and Humanity, the planetary throat centre. The play of the energies elsewhere (controlled from these three centres) is automatic. The objective of the circulating energies—as it appears to us when we seek to penetrate divine purpose—is to vivify all parts of His body, with the view of promoting the unfoldment of consciousness therein.

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WEDNESDAY

“ … It is the theme of relationship therefore, which is the basic pattern in the evolutionary process of unfoldment in this, the second solar system (of three systems) which is [Page 194] that of the Son, wherein the quality of the second divine aspect, Love, is being perfected. In this perfecting process man participates unconsciously at first, during the long cycle of evolutionary unfoldment under the Law of Necessity; but when he becomes the aspirant and takes the first steps upon the path towards spiritual maturity, he begins to play a crucial role which he maintains until he attains spiritual liberation and himself becomes a member of the Hierarchy, of the fifth or spiritual kingdom, through perfected service in the fourth or the human kingdom.”

◊ Here, we are given a clear, major hint and a directing teaching: “relationship is the basic pattern in the evolutionary process of unfoldment” wherein “Love is being perfected.” — Now that we know this, does anything change for you? Do we see the importance and inescapability of relationship?

We play a “crucial role,” unconscious at first and then conscious, that is held paramount until we attain spiritual liberation. Ponder on this.

◊ As we consider our relationships, are they — and how are they — being perfected through Love? Sit with this thought, be with it as a living inquiry.

◊ Are there relationships in your sphere of influence, and relationship network, that need to be brought into the conscious perfecting process — and join the divine inheritance of Love?

◊ In this latter question/inquiry, we must also reconsider our relationships with other kingdoms … the responsibility we have for them, and perfecting these relationships.

◊ Consider the “perfecting process” in your life bringing you closer to your goal of spiritual liberation. How is it working in your life?

◊ Is the perfecting process evident through your chosen line of service?

◊ Be clear in your mind about the necessity of the “perfecting process” distinguished from “perfectionism”.

◊ As you look out upon a world in conflict, do you see the Perfecting Process at play? Do we recognize it as an unconscious force, as well as a conscious force?

THURSDAY

“The bond of relationship between the fourth and the fifth kingdoms (Humanity and Hierarchy) is increasing in strength, bringing new powers expressed as vital livingness in the more advanced members of the human family. The distribution of energies from the Hierarchy can be indicated briefly. As we know, the Hierarchy is a Heart Center in the body of the Planetary Logos — the Lord of the World. This Heart Center is comprised of 49 Ashrams that are overseen by the Lord of Love, the Christ. We also know that the inner Circle is comprised of Seven Ashrams each corresponding to one of Seven Rays, and overseen by a Chohan or high Master of Love-Wisdom; each of these Seven have seven subsidiary Ashrams making 49 in all.”

◊ The “bond of relationship between the fourth and fifth kingdoms (Humanity and Hierarchy) is increasing in strength …” — Do you have a sense of this? Does the fact that the Christ as head of the spiritual Hierarchy and His Disciples (the Masters of Love Wisdom) are coming nearer to Humanity bear any influence in your experience or in what you perceive?

◊ Are there other perceptions or experiences that speak to you in this growing awareness of relationship between Humanity and the Kingdom of Souls?

FRIDAY

“An Ashram is an emanating source of hierarchical impression upon the world. Its "impulsive energies" and its inciting forces are directed toward the expansion of the human consciousness, through the magnetic lives of the group members as they carry on their duties, obligations and responsibilities in the outer world: it is aided also by the steady vibratory activity of the members of the Ashram who are not in physical incarnation and by the united clear thinking and convinced awareness of the entire Ashram. Beginners, such as are most aspirants (though not all), are usually engrossed with the fact of the Ashram. Trained disciples are engrossed with the work to be done, and the [Page 195] Ashram—as an Ashram—plays little part in their thinking; they are so preoccupied with the task ahead and with the need of humanity and of these to be served that they seldom think of the Ashram or of the Master at its centre. They are an integral part of the ashramic consciousness and their conscious occupation is called, in the ancient writings, "the emanating of that which flows through them, the teaching of the doctrine of the heart which is the force of truth itself, the radiating of the light of life, borne upon the stream to which the non-initiate gives the name, `the light of love'."

◊ In the awareness that group members whose service entails “duties, obligations and responsibilities in the outer world” are being directed and impressed by an Ashram for the purpose of expanding consciousness in humanity, suggests the importance of holding, supporting and wholesomely participating with such members and groups for the achievement of their purpose.

These groups are aided by “the steady vibratory activity” of the inner members of an Ashram not in incarnation, and by the “united clear thinking and convinced awareness of the entire Ashram”. REFLECT and absorb.

◊ REFLECT upon the ancient writing that “ashramic consciousness” is occupied with: "the emanating of that which flows through them, the teaching of the doctrine of the heart which is the force of truth itself, the radiating of the light of life, borne upon the stream to which the non-initiate gives the name, `the light of love'."

◊ What “consciousness” is emanating through you today? Is it Ashramic? Today, think “Ashram”.

◊ The “doctrine of the heart is the force of Truth itself”.

During these critical times in the life of Humanity, the “force of Truth — and the “doctrine of the Heart” need stimulation. The first Ray Life aspect of Divinity — and the Will of God (Sanat Kumara) are closely connected. — The Will is for Love to pervade the whole world — such that Humanity lives in unity and harmony upon the earth. It is the Will of the Solar Logos to manifest Love fully throughout the solar system, rendering it a Love system.

As the higher Will of Humanity aligns with the Will and Plan of God — the Way of the Father, we shall have Peace on earth.

◊ Today, let us channel the “light of life” borne upon the stream of love divine.

SATURDAY - (FULL MOON DAY)

“The members of the Ashram constitute a united channel for the new energies which are, at this time, entering the world; these energies pour dynamically through the Ashram out into the world of men; they stream with potency through the Master at the heart of the Ashram; they move with "luminous speed" throughout the inner circle; they are stepped down by those who constitute the outer circle, and this is right and good; they are delayed by the beginner and the new disciple from breaking forth into the world of men, and this is not so good. They are delayed because the new disciple has turned his back upon the world of men and his eyes are fastened upon the inner goal and not upon the outer service; they remain fixed upon the Master and His senior disciples and workers, and not upon the mass of human need.

◊ In the paragraph above and below, we are informed how new energy flows through an Ashram and out into the world to serve human need. The members themselves form a united channel for dynamic energy that either breaks forth into the world or is delayed due to wrong focus by the new disciple. REFLECT on what allows energy to flow with “luminous speed”? What does stepping it down look like?

◊ Here we see a lesson that can be expanded into other areas. An emphasis is placed on the metaphysics of focus. We know well the axiom, ‘what you focus on grows’. Here, the focus takes on a different emphasis. The Master is saying, take your focus off of Us because you are delaying the flow of energy from where it is intended to go. Here, right motive and intention must precede right focus, and, the correct use of the mind. ◊ A useful reflection for learning and shoring up effective service will ask — Was there a time when we, someone, or a situation delayed the energy — ask why? what was the specific cause? Think also of times when the energy flowed as intended — same question, why? ◊ Where else are we seeing energy and “good work” flowing freely as it should? Where are we seeing it obstructed through wrong or selfish focus? Is there a way to help?

◊ All the above can be a training for the death process and the afterlife. We are told that in the Tibetan Book of the Dead, there are three bardo states shortly after death, The second bardo state describes Purgatory. The mind, without the material constraints of the brain, is not easily able to modulate reality. Whatever way the thought goes, an image is created. Without the physical brain, the mind creates distraction. So then, we must train the mind with right focus based upon true motives. Reflect.

"It is essential that servers everywhere—the intelligent men and women of good will—get a grasp, fresh and clear, of the work to be done and that they become "relaying channels and not delaying points of selfish interest" in the divine flow. This takes vision and courage. It takes courage to adjust their lives—daily and in all relations—to the need of the hour and to the service of mankind; it takes courage to attack life problems on behalf of others and [Page 196] to obliterate one's own personal wishes in the emergency and need, and to do so consistently and persistently. However, there is much to encourage the server. Humanity has now reached a point in development where there is a definite grasp of the Plan of the Hierarchy—call it brotherhood, sharing, internationalism, unity or what you will. This is a growing and factual apprehension and is a general recognition by the thinkers and esotericists of the world, by the religious people of enlightenment, by broad minded statesmen, by industrialists and business men of inclusive vision and humanitarian insight, and even today by the man in the street. There is also a more definite recognition of emerging spiritual values and a greater readiness to relinquish hindrances to service. The plans of the Christ for humanity's release are more matured, for they had to wait until such time that the trend of human aspiration became more clearly emphatic; and the new era, with its latent possibilities can now be seen upon the horizon, stripped of the veils of glamour and wishful thinking … All of this is a challenge to the disciple. What is it that he must do?

SUNDAY

“The disciple has to take himself as he is, at any time, with any given equipment, and under any given circumstances; he then proceeds to subordinate himself, his affairs and his time to the need of the hour—particularly during the phase of group, national or world crisis. When he does this within his own consciousness and is, therefore, thinking along lines of the true values, he will discover that his own private affairs are taken care of, his capacities are increased and his limitations are forgotten. He takes his place with those who perceive the needs of the coming cycle—a cycle wherein the new ideas and ideals must be stressed and for which a fight must be made, wherein the wider plans for the good of the whole must be understood, [Page 197] endorsed and preached, the new and clearer vision for human living must be grasped and finally brought into being, and a cycle wherein the effort of all members of the New Group of World Servers must be given to the lifting of humanity's load.

◊ Was there a time when your own private affairs were taken care of due to your absorption in a greater Good?

◊ As we take our place within the “new ideas and ideals [that] must be stressed …. ”, what comes to mind in light of the continuing conflict of Russia’s attack on Ukraine? As more and more nations come to assist Ukraine, the response by the majority of the world community is clear. Thinking in line with “true values” and “soul principles”, how is the “Law of Love” in play? Where is it being violated? Is Russia’s aggression in line with the wider Plan of manifesting the Good? Is Right Human Relations between nations expressed? The same thoughts can be expressed regarding Israel and Palestine.

What principles and vision for “right human relations” must be brought into action? Put your “Ideas” into words. Communicate your articulated thoughts to others throughout these days as part of your service.

"We are told in the New Testament that we must endeavor to let the Mind which was in Christ also be manifest in us. We are working towards the perfecting of the rule of Christ on earth; we are aiming at the development of the Christ consciousness and at the bringing in of the rule or law of Christ, which is Love.  This will come to fruition in the Aquarian Age, and we shall see brotherhood established on earth.  The rule of Christ is the dominance of the basic spiritual laws. The mind of Christ is a phrase conveying the concept of the rule of divine intelligent love, which stimulates the rule of the soul within all forms, and brings in the reign of the Spirit. (EP – I, 95) 

◊ Reflect on the revelatory power of the Christ growing in you, bringing joy and the strength of victory over the darkness of matter. Do you see evidence of it?

◊ Reflect on the same concerning humanity.

“There is a certain esoteric Mantram which embodies this attitude—the attitude of the disciple who is striving, in cooperative endeavour with others, to link hierarchical intent with human aspiration and thus bring humanity nearer to its goal. The intent of the Hierarchy is to increase men's capacity for freedom in order to function effectively with that "life more abundantly" which the Christ will bring and which demands that the spirit of man be free—free to approach divinity and free also to choose the Way of that approach. The Mantram bears the name, "The Affirmation of the Disciple." It involves certain inner recognitions and acceptances which are readily perceived by those whose intuition is sufficiently awake; but its meaning should not be beyond the ability of any sincere student and thinker to penetrate if it appeals to them as significant and warranting their effort.”

◊ Contemplate “The Mantram of the Disciple” in the light of increased capacity for freedom and to function more effectively with that “life more abundantly”; intuitively reflect upon those “inner recognitions and acceptances” which make this real. When sounding this esoteric Mantram, confirm its intent to link humanity with Hierarchy.

◊ ◊ ◊

“I am a point of light within a greater Light.

I am a strand of loving energy within the stream of Love divine.

I am a point of sacrificial Fire, focused within the fiery Will of God.

And thus I stand.

◊

I am a way by which men may achieve.

I am a source of strength, enabling them to stand.

I am a beam of light, shining upon their way.

And thus I stand.

◊

And standing thus, revolve

And tread this way the ways of men,

And know the ways of God.

And thus I stand.”

◊ ◊ ◊

PART III

February 25 - REVIEW the week

Part III will be a review of Parts I and II for deepening and reflection:

Strengthen the Soul

Stand in the Light of Love

Study

Radiate the Presence

LIVE THE WAY

◊ ◊ ◊

ESOTERIC EASTER: Easter Sunday is March 31. “The date of Easter changes each year because it is based on the lunar cycle. Easter Sunday always falls on the Sunday after the first full moon following the Spring equinox in March.” This year the Spring Equinox is on March 19 and the Aries FULL MOON follows on March 24.