Oh, Brian, that was just beautiful! Thank you. That's helped me too.
Heike Arneth
- 3/2/2011
What a great lift!
Thank´s Brian
Gladys, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 3/2/2011
great perspective
Jan from USA
- 3/2/2011
So Perfect!!! Thank you!!!
Joyce Geddes
- 3/2/2011
Just what I needed to hear. Thank you.
kathy east sussex
- 3/2/2011
thank you Brian a great reminder
Ani Sunflowers
- 3/2/2011
Thank you for this lovely lift. So true!!
Betty
- 3/2/2011
Thank you so much. I feel uplifted and strengthened.
lorna
- 3/2/2011
Thank You, Brian, Your message to us all was so beautifully and gently told, powerful yet peaceful Thank you again.
jane,UK
- 3/2/2011
Once again your Daily Lift is filled with Love and fills us! Thank you so much - my life has been so replenished since we last shared your lift, (and I wrote to you).Only this morning I was reflecting on the idea that the Christ- consciousness is law to anything that suggests otherwise and that all our burdens can be placed with Love who holds us free. Even the radius surrounding us is filled with Love. Mrs Eddy says at the very beginning of Science and Health p.vii, "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings." Thank you for this, and a continuing thank you to the BoL and team for providing this daily source of spiritual community. I am the only Christian Scientist in my family, though we are all noticing the shift in our lives through daily study and prayer. casting our yoke upon the Lord,enlightening our load, and enabling Love to manifest around us!
Marthab
- 3/2/2011
Yoked to Love..great idea.thanks.
Elena Shideler, California (San Diego)
- 3/2/2011
Can't help but laugh in delight when I remember the kids taking a nap on top of tamaraws and carabaos in the dirt streets in the Philippine islands. These animals do tremendous amount of heavy lifting for them, and they are part of their daily life. The water buffalos are the gentlest of animals and yet one of the strongest. The natives love and trust them so much that once a year they even celebrate the animal's festival just for fun.
The children seem to trust them as much as Jesus trusted God -knowing that he was yoked to Him. Matt. 11:28-30 http://bible.cc/matthew/11-28.htm
It could very well be said that Jesus had the weight of the world on his shoulders, yet the infinite strength and love of God did the heavy lifting. We too can yoked ourselves to God, our Father, and let HIm do the heavy lifting.
ESPAŇOL
No puedo dejar de reír de alegría cuando recuerdo los niños durmiendo la siesta en la espalda de tamaraws y carabaos, en las calles de tierra en las islas Filipinas. Estos animales hacen enorme cantidad de trabajo pesado para ellos, y forman parte de su vida cotidiana. Los búfalos de agua son los más apacible de los animales, sin embargo unos de los más fuertes. Los nativos los aman y confían tanto en ellos que una vez al año incluso celebran el festival de este animal sólo por diversión.
Los niños parecen confiar en ellos tanto como Jesús confió en Dios, -sabiendo que estaba uncido a el Padre . Mateo 11:28-30 http://bibliaparalela.com/matthew/11-28.htm
Bien podría decirse que Jesús tenía el peso del mundo sobre sus hombros, sin embargo, la fuerza infinita y el amor de Dios hacía el trabajo pesado . Nosotros también podemos uncirnos a Dios, nuestro Padre, y dejarlo hacer a El el trabajo pesado.
Malcolm Drummond, Henrietta NY
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian for that inspiring lift. Yes, "We too can yoke ourselves to infinite Love, letting Love bear the burden ." "Is thy burden hard and heavy?/ Do thy steps drag wearily?/ Help to bear thy brother's burden,/ God [divine Love] will bear both it and thee." (Christian Science Hymnal #360)
Shelagh Scotland UK
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian, this is a truly wonderful Lift and thank you Jane #10 for your comments.
I really needed this today and will pop online later to listen again..
Like Jane I am so grateful for the DL's and Board of Lectureship for all the wonderful work done and shared globally.
With much love and heartfelt thanks,
Shelagh
robert donaldson, brunswick maine
- 3/2/2011
Thanks, thinking of man of war.
J.S. in Ky.
- 3/2/2011
You helped us see God in a different light. Thank you, Brian. I suddenly saw “lighten” two ways, one being to lessen the burden weighing on us. Then I saw your Lift title take on a different meaning: to turn “light” on something to understand it better so problems become less a burden. Using “lighten” both ways, shows the word to be one and the same, our Father enlightens us and lifts for us any remaining load. You've given me lots to ponder. I like how you compare water buffalo being gentle (when you get to know them ) to getting to know our strong Father, who is so loving and gentle, and helps us in every thing we need. He's presented to so many as being formidable, even if loving, which tends to keep man looking at Him as though far above He's watching with a critical eye. Not taught in Christian Science, but you still softened for us our approach to Him.
To Dorry, (Tuesday's #22) Comments are limited to 1500 characters & spaces & relevant to the topic (“commentiquette”.below). Well told testimonies aren't easy to work in. We come here to fill up on daily inspiration to grow on, & use when needed. People don't drive while they gas up the car, nor usually talk about their driving experiences then, either. We go to Sunday services to worship & be enlightened, but testify at Wednesday services world wide. TMC's service is online for 24 hrs. Some Branches can be called from anywhere in the world to hear testimonies and some let us give our testimonies, too. (More below)
J.S. in Ky.
- 3/2/2011
Dorry, our periodicals have testimony sections, and almost every article also has at least one in it. This website, christianscience.com, has an inspiring testimony each week. Also on this site near the top, click “community” and the 1st choice on drop-down is “Conversations about Christian Science” with many different topics. Everyone isn't an experienced Science student, but sometimes awesome testimonies are shared there. At the bottom of page with the list of today's and recent Lifts, you may click on all past pages of Lifts.. Many good testimonies were shared along the way.. On spirituality.com read articles from CS Journal & Sentinel, plus extra articles. Almost all contain a testimony. Many who testify at Church, don't repeat it here. By phone I've heard testifiers mention the Daily Lifts. Another reason you don't hear as many as in MBE's day, is by now generations have depended on CS. There's less to need healing! A man years ago, was questioned why he never had a testimony. Then someone realized he used CS so diligently, anything “healed” was done by preventative instead of curative use. (S&H 369:23-26) We may not be aware of some of the best healings we get this way! Hope this helps you understand, dear one.
Olive
- 3/2/2011
A big THANK YOU Brian, for a lovely Lift, beautifully told.
Danielle Ames
- 3/2/2011
Studying for midterms feeling like there's a LOT on my load, it was a wonderful lift. Especially the Thailand reference, because I'm going to school there now!
Yetty
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian for the encouragement that we should yoke ourselves to God and our burden will be lightened.Thank you all for your comments.
Lorraine from Dayton, Oh
- 3/2/2011
Yes, Brian, "Cast your butden on the Lord, and bear a song away." There is no weight to a song! Thank you ever so much for this helpful lift. Lovingly, Lorrie
Mari, Uruguay
- 3/2/2011
Thank you! Beautiful Lift to start my day!
Lynne from PA
- 3/2/2011
What a lovely, gentle, kindly lift beautifully shared....thank you:)
Rick, Sunderland, England.
- 3/2/2011
Thanks for this Brian. A worth while effort, to bind ourselves to the yoke of Love and not mortal mind. Jane, (no10.) give no thought to being "the only Christian Scientist" in your family. I was for many years until recently. As you demonstrate it more and more others will want to experience what you have, and so it will unfold. Thanks everyone.
Juergen, München Germany
- 3/2/2011
That's I am thinking about the last months: the load is light in Love. Thank you Brian for your confirmation.
Tina from Missouri
- 3/2/2011
What perfect timing as the light dawns on another day, Recently (ok, last night) the needs of family and work and pets seemed too much for me. But it's not me is it? It is God. I am not carrying the load at all. How silly to think I could. Thank you Brian for your morning inspiration and thank you Father Mother God for loving me and lifting me and for our beautiful church family stretching across the globe.
Kansas
- 3/2/2011
B E A U T I F U L. Many thanks for this and all the DLs and to all who make them possible.
Mary H. AL
- 3/2/2011
Thank you for that wonderful Lift. I never new that about the water buffalos being so gentle, thank you again.
Vicki Knickerbocker
- 3/2/2011
Absolutely delightful - I pray with that passage almost every night and will now see the gentleness that comes with letting Him take the burdens. Thank you so much for such a wonderful start to my day.
GOD BLESS, USA
- 3/2/2011
Yoked to God and made easy our way means to me to have the mind of the father, the son, and the holy spirit with us. In my family's history I am a member of the Hay clan. On the plaque of the Hay clan are two men yoked together that carry a heavy burden that is made light by the logo that reads "Keep the yoke!" and so that yoke is kept to my clan this day too. I see with my father's in heaven they help by providing the wisdom and mighty healing power to bless not only myself, but the world too. By the holy spirit I can see the world a little differently by taking this yoke and dividing it up between family's and the fathers and sons helping each other in this consecration. The son of God and the sons of men have this yoke to see a world more bright in inspiration, wisdom, knowledge, etc. Isn't this the Christ acting through us son's and daughters, brothers and sisters? Yes it is and this is lightening the load. Thank you!
Eric
- 3/2/2011
Thanks!
Barb in Arizona
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian,
I always learn so much from the Daily Lifts and those that comment.
Richard Requarth Dayton, Ohio
- 3/2/2011
Very encouraging thoughts and thank you to all you daily lifters on the BoL and those that choose to share their thoughts. The inspiration shared always blesses and this blessing business is a "load lightener!"
Donna, Florida
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian! Very much looking forward to your lecture in Ocala on April 2nd!
gail smith
- 3/2/2011
Thank you for starting my day with those beautiful thoughts!!!! Gail Smith
- 3/2/2011
This week's Christian Science Bible Lesson on 'Man', mentions that God's gentleness makes us great [Psalms]. I love contemplating the immensity and gentleness of God, divine Principle, Love.
As I move close to God in prayer, and lean on Him for healing, the result makes me feel great.
Thank you Brian.
Sandy, Moscow Mills Missouri
- 3/2/2011
I was feeling rather burdened until I heard this lift. Thanks for the reminder to let go and to let God take over.
Grateful listener
- 3/2/2011
Thanks so much Brian this was just what I needed as I have been feeling very burdened. And my deepest thanks to everyone responsible for bringing us these Daily Lifts. What a beautiful start to the day!
Nikki from Victoria Texas
- 3/2/2011
So timely....thank you for the lovely lift..
Coral Barbados
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian! Great lift.
Sally
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian.
Jodi, St Louis, says:
- 3/2/2011
Thank You Brian for such an inspired Lift. "My cup runneth over,"
The song birds are back as they were singing before the dawn today. And this Lift is indeed a blessing at any time and all the comments are inspiring too. Thank You all.
Margaret Sunshine Coast Australia
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian, for this inspiring Lift. We definitely are yoked to God, and His loving help is everywhere all the time. God prays with us, prompts us and keeps the smile on our face for everyone in the supermarket. God is so close to us He tells us the name of the bird we have in our sights, just as easily as we are reminded to pay our Corporate Body to be on time for the right day. Can't remember someone's name? God can. Need a special word for the best description? God has it and gives it at once. All that God is He gives to us, abundantly and not more for one than for another. Our yoke is light, as in all-knowing, and wonderfully loving and blessing, as in infinitely.
Thank you so much Nathan for another great week of Lifts and the preludes that lead our thoughts into them.
Brightlight
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian for this wonderfully loving "lift"...and God bless you all for your inspiring responses.
Love is Light
- 3/2/2011
Hi Brian! Thank you so much for this Light and Lovely Lift! I used to have a sign on my desk that said: "Good Morning, this is God. I will be handling all your problems today. I do not need your help. So have a Good Day!" And of course, we all know "Let Go and Let God"! I think since God is All - our biggest job is just to Surrender to that Allness and Trust that God really does have our best interest at Heart! Our real job is just to Let Go and Free Fall into God's arms, the arms of Love. Trust, Trust, Trust! Blessings to All!
Joy in Alberta, Canada
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian.
This really helps!
El Paso Patt
- 3/2/2011
What another fantastic metaphor. Thanks a million. Just let go, let God. Also I have a totally different view of the water buffalo. What a wonderful animal. I had no idea.
leslee
- 3/2/2011
Perfect thought to start the day with. It reminds me of a statement Mrs. Eddy made, "God gives you strength according to your day".(whatever that day brings! Thanks for these lifts...I posted it to facebook too.
anon from NYC
- 3/2/2011
Beautiful thoughts. Thank you so much for the image of the water buffalo. What a precious idea that our Father-Mother God is so near, so capable, so big and steady always. That we can safely lean on Him completely. I'm realizing too that sometimes the challenge is my lack of faith, my inability to grasp the nature of our omnipresent, omnipotent God, this steady loving strong presence, and yet Jesus comforts us with the fact that "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." Matt 17 So, even tho we may feel inadequate even in our faith, it really doesn't matter because even the tiniest hope and trust is incredibly powerful, and furthermore, that solid "water buffalo" hasn't gone anywhere, nothing good has diminished, nothing's changed regardless of what the senses scream to the contrary. I'm going to be sure I'm leaning on that "sustaining infinite" today!! Thank you again!
grasshopper
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian.
Of course, this Lift applies to my activities this week. I was feeling burdened but now I see that it will unfold gracefully and naturally and my fear is gone. It's that easy...Give it to God!
David
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian. This helped me understand the Psalm: "thy gentleness hath made me great." Gentle men are gracious because of their power and powerful because they are gracious -- like the water buffalo.
Thank you.
Susan
- 3/2/2011
It really is possible to "see" the qualities of God reflected everywhere. Thanks, Brian.
Anni from Wash.
- 3/2/2011
moving us into the wonderful world of animals with the water buffalo, is on the most beautiful analogies that's come to my desktop.
Particularly powerful in placing EVERY ONE of those dear ones isupposedly in No Man's Land bordering Libya in God's Safe Zone and blesses them en route.
Thank you for the new arrival, Brian. Lovely for the young and young in heart
mumsie. cololrado
- 3/2/2011
Just what I needed! So simple!
California
- 3/2/2011
Brian, your words, the loving tone in your voice, the gentle teaching with a
perfect metaphor, are just what I was looking for to share one of these (always great) Daily Lifts with a new-to-CS-Christian friend. Thank you!
Burdens are not from our Father-Mother-God! So: illusions, only!
Thanks, all you loving commenters, also. :<))
Happy burden-free day, everyone!! :<))
Sue
Barret, MD
- 3/2/2011
Brian, thanks so much for this great lift. I, too, know the beauty of Thailand and felt great protection and love when I was there.
Gary - Nanaimo
- 3/2/2011
What a delightful remedy for fatigue. The picture of confident happy children playing on a large gentle water buffalo. There are many things we can find in our adult lives that are trustworthy and joyful, useful and helpful.
Gary - Nanaimo
- 3/2/2011
P.S. The Daily Lift is one of them.
Kaye from Kansas
- 3/2/2011
Thank you so very much! The wonderful message is so tenderly delivered.
jill
- 3/2/2011
Beautiful! Thank you, Brian!
Bonnie, Glenview, Il
- 3/2/2011
That was incredibly helpful, Brian! I like the idea of the water buffalo; so big, strong, helpful and reliable. I am trying to be yoked to God for all my needs everyday, in every way. Thank you for the great reminder of our unending relationship with God and the visual of how much we can rely on Him.
Jim in St. Louis
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian! I like that idea of letting our love for God and our fellow man bear the burden. That really is our only debt, liability or requirement.
Dean
- 3/2/2011
Thanks for the beautiful lesson about the gentle giant!
mel
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian, Water Buffalo "Oh gental presence peace and joy and power"...from Mrs. Eddy,s......."the mothers evening prayer"
Noel
- 3/2/2011
thank you for the wonderful reminder that we can let Love bear burdens!
Willow
- 3/2/2011
Thank you so much Brian!! That is such a beautiful and uplifting truth to hold onto every day! :)
Jessica Dornevil
- 3/2/2011
Thank you very much Brian. What this lift is so wonderful. Thank you again.
Cyndy from Riverside, CA
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian, for this precious lift. It's just what I needed today. And as always, the comments so inspiring. I had to chuckle at #33 Richard's response about sharing inspiration brings blessings and that this "blessing business" is a "load lightener." So true!
Susan Carol
- 3/2/2011
Very comforting Brian , Thank-you. Thank-you also to J.S. in KY (16/17).
You shared so lovingly with Dorrie.
Sandy from Canada
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian. So simple and refreshing. True freedom experienced when we trust all to God and lean on Him.
Maureen from Spearfish
- 3/2/2011
Once again the Daily LIft meets me right where I am. My heart and soul have experienced MUCH healing the last months, but last night and this morning I slid into tears again, sadness over past experiences. Part of my turning away from that, and turning toward God, was to come listen to today's Lift.
Ah . . what comfort. The statement that Eddy opens Science and Health with is one I have clung to: To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings.
But Brian, you added one tiny yet huge point: we have to get real close in order to lean. Okay, that's my "direction" for today: snuggle up close to God, and then lean. Repeat as often as necessary. And whenever I feel "far away," just open my eyes and see that I have never left the arms of Love. Never. And all the rest of God's beloved children are snuggled up there, too. Amen.
Susan
- 3/2/2011
Thank you so much Brian, for that wonderful analogy. Very interesting to learn that the water buffalo is so strong yet so kind and gentle! Your message was beautifully delivered the same way. It was exactly what I needed to hear today, and I felt my burdens lifted from my shoulders! Thank you, thank you!
Howard
- 3/2/2011
Thank you for the "YOKE OF LOVE" message
Monrovia, Calif
Geordan
- 3/2/2011
I will never look at a water buffalo (or any so-called beast of burden)the same way again. Many thanks!
Rhonda
- 3/2/2011
That is so encouraging. I am re-realizing that I am yoked to God doing the heavy lifting. I am allowing Love to bear the burdens. (semi-quoting you!) Thank you.
And this brought something else to mind when mentioning that animal -- Service, being of service to humanity. What a privilege! True Religion undefiled. We can learn from that. Thanks again.
Mary Jo
- 3/2/2011
"A big, useful friend" - I like that kind, loving image.
The Infinite strength of God lifts the heavy burdens.
Vonne Anne from Walnut Creek, CA
- 3/2/2011
Thanks, Brian. Such a great and inspiring thought - liking the water buffalo to our Heavenly Father-Mother God's tender care.
G from California
- 3/2/2011
Brian, your love-filled message perfectly illustrates for me the "gentle presence, peace and joy and power" of Mrs. Eddy's beautiful poem, "Mother's Evening Prayer." And your tender, love-filled delivery of the message was as healing balm to my ruffled sense this morning. Thank you!
robert donaldson, brunswick maine
- 3/2/2011
When I wanted Mickey,a 16-year old Appaloosa gelding to lean or move one way or the other for whatever purpose, I pushed on one rump or the other and he would lean into the pressure, not away from it. That's just opposite of what human will tries to do. Very interesting to me to think about.
Thanks for the day-trip to Asia.
Sher
- 3/2/2011
To lean we must be close to Him and we could say He is always close to us so we can always lean on Him even if we think we might not be close to Him. Reminds me of that song "Lean on Him."
Linda in Florida
- 3/2/2011
Thank you Brian. As is so often the case, this "LIFT" is exactly the thought I needed for today.
Daphne, from South Africa
- 3/2/2011
Thank you, Brian! I am first Readering for my Society here in Cape Town, South Africa, and also feeling burdened and under pressure to prepare the Wednesday Readings, and in view of this, It came to me to prepare the readings on this subject, and once begun, the readings flowed, as did the Hymns - 402, 119 and 299! One of the testifiers inquired whether I had listened to your Lift. I hadnt! She developed the ideas in the readings,tieing them in, with your lift! This impelled more comments on 'being yoked' to God, and that the daily study of the Lesson-Sermons yoke us to one another, and to God! The testimonies flowed! Likening this to sled dogs, each individual plays a necessary part in the team, and occupies a particular niche in the team and cant go off at a tangent, on its own to, say, chase a rabbit! After the service, we all listened to and enjoyed your lift on the testifier's Blackberry!!! Thank you,and to all the team of Daily Lifters and Nate!
Nate Frederick
- 3/2/2011
This is a great lift. Thanks Brian.
rrh in Topeka, Kansas
- 3/2/2011
Great stuff here, Brian. Many thanks, and have a good evening, all
David
- 3/2/2011
The lift and comments are superb.
Carlos Alberto Gonzalez from Queensland, Australia
- 3/2/2011
It is wonderful to hear messages like this one because they make me feel the 'infinite Love' of God in all I do. I am sure many people feel the same way. Thanks so much Brian, for such an encouraging idea!
en español
Es maravilloso escuchar mensajes como éste porque me hacen sentir el Amor infinito de Dios en todo lo que hago. Estoy seguro que muchas personas sienten lo mismo.¡Muchísimas gracias Brian, for una idea tan alentadora!
Janet P. J., Hawaii
- 3/2/2011
Many Thanks !
That was a truly healing lift. The beauty, joy and grace, the harmony and sunshine of today reappeared. And I can't quite recall why I was so concerned about the events today...
12:06 pm HST
Carl Savage, Brisbane, Oz.
- 3/2/2011
Thanks Brian, perfect timing.
Anne
- 3/2/2011
What a nice word-picture you gave us, Brian! Thank you.
Britta
- 3/2/2011
Thanks Brian, I love this story and this great picture you're painting. I wonder if I can keep one of those creatures in my backyard. :) Just kidding, I'll keep'em in thought.
Elizabeth B
- 3/2/2011
Thank you very much.
A friend
- 3/2/2011
What a great way to think about marriage -- yoked to Love.
Thanks, Brian.
Heike MartinVenezuela
- 3/2/2011
Thank you so ,much we shall never hesitate to lean on God!
Joachim Mensing
- 3/2/2011
thank you, makes me feel good!
Bea Elliott
- 3/2/2011
Hello Brian and Daily Lift friends,
Although I'm not a Christian Scientist, I do enjoy receiving these Daily Lifts as an encouragement to live each day in a more thoughtful, spiritual way. Today's message had a separate layer for me to investigate the meaning of, because it uses the Asian water buffalo as an example of one who is gentle, yet sometimes feared. One who is there as a friend to whom to “yoke” our worries.
I learned as I searched the Internet for more history behind these docile giants, I was saddened to discover that the ancient traditions of treating them as precious "family members" has been replaced with one in which they are treated like objects -- valuable "stock."
When I read about the races and fights that they are unwilling participants in, I'm troubled with the likely corruption that goes along with these gambling practices.
Then, when I realize what it means to reduce a living, sentient being to nothing more than a commodity as in a “draft animal”... “meat animal” ... or “dairy animal” I’m disheartened even more. It seems that “Asian” water buffalo have been re-located to all parts of U.S. and other prosperous countries all for the sake of “exotic” cheeses or “rare-breed meats.” This causes me to wonder at the conditions these animals must have traveled in and how many families were broken apart. Is this what God wants us to do with our animal friends?
(continued in next post)
Bea Elliott
- 3/2/2011
(resuming from previous post)
I also wonder whether, when Brian mentions that these buffalo are milked, are they treated like standard dairy cows, where the calves are removed from their mothers so humans may take the milk instead? Has this become an industry, wherein greed has caused us to disregard the value of innocent lives?
I'm all for prosperity and abundance, but I most urgently wonder this: Can good ever be had by violating helpless victims? I think it behooves any truth-seeker to look a little deeper.
Finally, I understand the concept of "service" but certainly it’s a condition that can be met only by one volunteering their good deeds or earnest labor. To say that any animal -- water buffalo or otherwise -- can “offer” themselves, is not being totally truthful. I think it’s important to venture beyond the unquestioned self-deceptions that trick us into believing that animals tender their labor or lives or children or milk willingly. It seems only fair and responsible to face the fact that the burdens and demands we place on other species is most often against their nature and desires. Accepting this in the full light of honesty comes closest to the virtues Christian Science represents and teaches.
Thank you for inviting comment and for considering my views. They are offered with the best intentions of helping create a kinder, more peaceful world.
Margarita from Argentina
- 3/3/2011
Thank you Brian, this lift came today as an answer to my prayers. Love and gratitude to all of you.
Marion from Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- 3/3/2011
What a beautiful, timely message Brian. Thank you so much.
Janice
- 3/3/2011
This message is perfect for me as I seem to have so much "on my shoulders" but you have put it into the proper sense of things and I'm so grateful. I love the thought that "my yoke is easy and my burden is light".
These Daily Lifts are priceless and I'm so grateful for each one of them.
Carlos Alberto Gonzalez from Queensland, Australia
- 3/3/2011
In response to 95. 96 'Bea Elliott says', Dear Bea, from the point of view of Christian Science, whatever the five senses show in the experience of all mankind will always be erroneous, even when beautiful or ugly . We learn in CS that 'reality' is spiritual, good, and cannot be reflected by matter. Perhaps some comments may seem hard to understand when people use certain analogies but if we go back to Genesis 1 and read in Science & Health with Key to the Scriptures what Mary Baker Eddy has to say about Creation (page 501 and the following 20 pages or so) you may begin to understand that we only have to accept the 'spiritual reality' of all things, people, animals, etc. That is how Jesus restored health and even life to many, not looking at the human experience but to the spiritual perfection, which is our 'real' experience, happening here and now instead of the false view. When last week I had some suggestions of experiencing a cold, I turned in prayer to God, good, who created me spiritual and perfect, not material. In my prayer I simply accepted in my consciousness that nothing bad or material was happening since God did not create anything bad, the symptoms simply disappeared and I felt well, which is the norm for everybody and everything. I did not accept the lie (suggestions of sickness), I accepted the spiritual reality, which, in fact, was, is and always will be intact.
Me-an
- 3/3/2011
Thank you so much. I have been blessed so much just by listening.
shining ray
- 3/3/2011
Oh so sweet. Thank you. Reminds me that the reflection can never bear the burden, only the original. I need this reminder.
Blessings to each lecturer and lifter!
alex
- 3/3/2011
thank you-this paragon brought tears to my eyes.beautiful yolk bearing.
alex mills
- 3/3/2011
thank you for this beautiful love bearing yolk,so light.with no material weight pulling down..it brought tears to my eyes,of joy.
Susan
- 3/3/2011
To Bea #95 & #96 - Dear Bea, I fully appreciate your deep concern for the welfare of animals. Your caring message is one that, I believe, is slowly spreading into the hearts of many people worldwide. It may take awhile to educate mankind thus. Mary Baker Eddy, the discoverer and founder of CS had a fondness for animals, and, as a child, loved and cared for the animals on her farm. Her spiritual insight even at the tender age of five, enabled Mary to nurse the invalid animals quickly back to health and strength. Years later, she understood more clearly the deeper nature of spiritual healing and brought it to the world. We certainly don’t ignore the plight of every creature who shares this earth. And while we work to do everything we can to educate others and promote humane treatment of animals, it is important to hold the spiritual view of Life always in thought. This perfect, spiritual view is effective in counteracting injurious mortal concepts, and actually brings a change for good somewhere in the world. Try it. Mrs. Eddy says, “Good thoughts are an impervious armor; clad therewith you are completely shielded from the attacks of error of every sort. And not only yourselves are safe, but all whom your thoughts rest upon are thereby benefited.”
Brian Talcott
- 3/3/2011
Thank you all for your kind and inspiring comments. It is nice to know that these images and metaphors, actually inspired by Jesus' words, help and heal.
Thanks also to Bea #95 &96 for her thoughtful comments; and to Carlos #100 and Susan #105 for your loving and useful responses to Bea. There is not much more to say, but to reiterate a point Susan made. As Christian Science teaches, it is as we lift thought to acknowledge and insist on the higher spiritual and good nature of all of God's creation that we begin to ameliorate and improve the condition of both humanity and all of the other creatures on the earth, treating one another with wisdom and respect God intends. Eddy shared this incredible insight in Science and Health, page 514: "The individuality created by God is not carnivorous, as witness the millennial estate pictured by Isaiah: — The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, And the leopard shall lie down with the kid; And the calf and the young lion, and the fatling together; And a little child shall lead them.
Understanding the control which Love held over all, Daniel felt safe in the lions' den, and Paul proved the viper to be harmless. All of God's creatures, moving in the harmony of Science, are harmless, useful, indestructible."
carolyn
- 3/3/2011
Thank you
Holmquists
- 3/3/2011
We love this-- water buffalos!
Thank you, Brian.
Julie
- 3/3/2011
That was so awesome!!! For years I've read Mrs. Eddy's words from S&H, "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, today is big with blessings." This gave it an entirely new meaning and depth! Thanks so much!!!
momo from Bogor
- 3/3/2011
I am so grateful. I've tears in my eyes listening to this DL.
No more doubt, God IS Father-Mother Love.
Bless you all lifters
Jan
- 3/4/2011
This was very comforting. Thank you!
Barbara
- 3/5/2011
What a wonderful reminder! Thank you!!
Sarah
- 3/5/2011
What a great analogy! Thank you : )
Jeremy C.
- 3/10/2011
Thank you Brian for the wonderful thoughts! Being reminded that we are yoked to God is extremely comforting and brings a sense of calm and humility. I know that each day can bring old and new burdens alike, weighing one's thoughts so to make the load seem overwhelming. Your uplifting thoughts remove the doubt of our connection to God, and reminds us that we don't have to lift the burden alone. God will lift it for us. Thank you!
Courtenay Rule
- 3/2/2011Oh, Brian, that was just beautiful! Thank you. That's helped me too.
Heike Arneth
- 3/2/2011What a great lift!
Thank´s Brian
Gladys, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 3/2/2011great perspective
Jan from USA
- 3/2/2011So Perfect!!! Thank you!!!
Joyce Geddes
- 3/2/2011Just what I needed to hear. Thank you.
kathy east sussex
- 3/2/2011thank you Brian a great reminder
Ani Sunflowers
- 3/2/2011Thank you for this lovely lift. So true!!
Betty
- 3/2/2011Thank you so much. I feel uplifted and strengthened.
lorna
- 3/2/2011Thank You, Brian, Your message to us all was so beautifully and gently told, powerful yet peaceful Thank you again.
jane,UK
- 3/2/2011Once again your Daily Lift is filled with Love and fills us! Thank you so much - my life has been so replenished since we last shared your lift, (and I wrote to you).Only this morning I was reflecting on the idea that the Christ- consciousness is law to anything that suggests otherwise and that all our burdens can be placed with Love who holds us free. Even the radius surrounding us is filled with Love. Mrs Eddy says at the very beginning of Science and Health p.vii, "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings." Thank you for this, and a continuing thank you to the BoL and team for providing this daily source of spiritual community. I am the only Christian Scientist in my family, though we are all noticing the shift in our lives through daily study and prayer. casting our yoke upon the Lord,enlightening our load, and enabling Love to manifest around us!
Marthab
- 3/2/2011Yoked to Love..great idea.thanks.
Elena Shideler, California (San Diego)
- 3/2/2011Can't help but laugh in delight when I remember the kids taking a nap on top of tamaraws and carabaos in the dirt streets in the Philippine islands. These animals do tremendous amount of heavy lifting for them, and they are part of their daily life. The water buffalos are the gentlest of animals and yet one of the strongest. The natives love and trust them so much that once a year they even celebrate the animal's festival just for fun.
The children seem to trust them as much as Jesus trusted God -knowing that he was yoked to Him. Matt. 11:28-30 http://bible.cc/matthew/11-28.htm
It could very well be said that Jesus had the weight of the world on his shoulders, yet the infinite strength and love of God did the heavy lifting. We too can yoked ourselves to God, our Father, and let HIm do the heavy lifting.
ESPAŇOL
No puedo dejar de reír de alegría cuando recuerdo los niños durmiendo la siesta en la espalda de tamaraws y carabaos, en las calles de tierra en las islas Filipinas. Estos animales hacen enorme cantidad de trabajo pesado para ellos, y forman parte de su vida cotidiana. Los búfalos de agua son los más apacible de los animales, sin embargo unos de los más fuertes. Los nativos los aman y confían tanto en ellos que una vez al año incluso celebran el festival de este animal sólo por diversión.
Los niños parecen confiar en ellos tanto como Jesús confió en Dios, -sabiendo que estaba uncido a el Padre . Mateo 11:28-30 http://bibliaparalela.com/matthew/11-28.htm
Bien podría decirse que Jesús tenía el peso del mundo sobre sus hombros, sin embargo, la fuerza infinita y el amor de Dios hacía el trabajo pesado . Nosotros también podemos uncirnos a Dios, nuestro Padre, y dejarlo hacer a El el trabajo pesado.
Malcolm Drummond, Henrietta NY
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian for that inspiring lift. Yes, "We too can yoke ourselves to infinite Love, letting Love bear the burden ." "Is thy burden hard and heavy?/ Do thy steps drag wearily?/ Help to bear thy brother's burden,/ God [divine Love] will bear both it and thee." (Christian Science Hymnal #360)
Shelagh Scotland UK
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian, this is a truly wonderful Lift and thank you Jane #10 for your comments.
I really needed this today and will pop online later to listen again..
Like Jane I am so grateful for the DL's and Board of Lectureship for all the wonderful work done and shared globally.
With much love and heartfelt thanks,
Shelagh
robert donaldson, brunswick maine
- 3/2/2011Thanks, thinking of man of war.
J.S. in Ky.
- 3/2/2011You helped us see God in a different light. Thank you, Brian. I suddenly saw “lighten” two ways, one being to lessen the burden weighing on us. Then I saw your Lift title take on a different meaning: to turn “light” on something to understand it better so problems become less a burden. Using “lighten” both ways, shows the word to be one and the same, our Father enlightens us and lifts for us any remaining load. You've given me lots to ponder. I like how you compare water buffalo being gentle (when you get to know them ) to getting to know our strong Father, who is so loving and gentle, and helps us in every thing we need. He's presented to so many as being formidable, even if loving, which tends to keep man looking at Him as though far above He's watching with a critical eye. Not taught in Christian Science, but you still softened for us our approach to Him.
To Dorry, (Tuesday's #22) Comments are limited to 1500 characters & spaces & relevant to the topic (“commentiquette”.below). Well told testimonies aren't easy to work in. We come here to fill up on daily inspiration to grow on, & use when needed. People don't drive while they gas up the car, nor usually talk about their driving experiences then, either. We go to Sunday services to worship & be enlightened, but testify at Wednesday services world wide. TMC's service is online for 24 hrs. Some Branches can be called from anywhere in the world to hear testimonies and some let us give our testimonies, too. (More below)
J.S. in Ky.
- 3/2/2011Dorry, our periodicals have testimony sections, and almost every article also has at least one in it. This website, christianscience.com, has an inspiring testimony each week. Also on this site near the top, click “community” and the 1st choice on drop-down is “Conversations about Christian Science” with many different topics. Everyone isn't an experienced Science student, but sometimes awesome testimonies are shared there. At the bottom of page with the list of today's and recent Lifts, you may click on all past pages of Lifts.. Many good testimonies were shared along the way.. On spirituality.com read articles from CS Journal & Sentinel, plus extra articles. Almost all contain a testimony. Many who testify at Church, don't repeat it here. By phone I've heard testifiers mention the Daily Lifts. Another reason you don't hear as many as in MBE's day, is by now generations have depended on CS. There's less to need healing! A man years ago, was questioned why he never had a testimony. Then someone realized he used CS so diligently, anything “healed” was done by preventative instead of curative use. (S&H 369:23-26) We may not be aware of some of the best healings we get this way! Hope this helps you understand, dear one.
Olive
- 3/2/2011A big THANK YOU Brian, for a lovely Lift, beautifully told.
Danielle Ames
- 3/2/2011Studying for midterms feeling like there's a LOT on my load, it was a wonderful lift. Especially the Thailand reference, because I'm going to school there now!
Yetty
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian for the encouragement that we should yoke ourselves to God and our burden will be lightened.Thank you all for your comments.
Lorraine from Dayton, Oh
- 3/2/2011Yes, Brian, "Cast your butden on the Lord, and bear a song away." There is no weight to a song! Thank you ever so much for this helpful lift. Lovingly, Lorrie
Mari, Uruguay
- 3/2/2011Thank you! Beautiful Lift to start my day!
Lynne from PA
- 3/2/2011What a lovely, gentle, kindly lift beautifully shared....thank you:)
Rick, Sunderland, England.
- 3/2/2011Thanks for this Brian. A worth while effort, to bind ourselves to the yoke of Love and not mortal mind. Jane, (no10.) give no thought to being "the only Christian Scientist" in your family. I was for many years until recently. As you demonstrate it more and more others will want to experience what you have, and so it will unfold. Thanks everyone.
Juergen, München Germany
- 3/2/2011That's I am thinking about the last months: the load is light in Love. Thank you Brian for your confirmation.
Tina from Missouri
- 3/2/2011What perfect timing as the light dawns on another day, Recently (ok, last night) the needs of family and work and pets seemed too much for me. But it's not me is it? It is God. I am not carrying the load at all. How silly to think I could. Thank you Brian for your morning inspiration and thank you Father Mother God for loving me and lifting me and for our beautiful church family stretching across the globe.
Kansas
- 3/2/2011B E A U T I F U L. Many thanks for this and all the DLs and to all who make them possible.
Mary H. AL
- 3/2/2011Thank you for that wonderful Lift. I never new that about the water buffalos being so gentle, thank you again.
Vicki Knickerbocker
- 3/2/2011Absolutely delightful - I pray with that passage almost every night and will now see the gentleness that comes with letting Him take the burdens. Thank you so much for such a wonderful start to my day.
GOD BLESS, USA
- 3/2/2011Yoked to God and made easy our way means to me to have the mind of the father, the son, and the holy spirit with us. In my family's history I am a member of the Hay clan. On the plaque of the Hay clan are two men yoked together that carry a heavy burden that is made light by the logo that reads "Keep the yoke!" and so that yoke is kept to my clan this day too. I see with my father's in heaven they help by providing the wisdom and mighty healing power to bless not only myself, but the world too. By the holy spirit I can see the world a little differently by taking this yoke and dividing it up between family's and the fathers and sons helping each other in this consecration. The son of God and the sons of men have this yoke to see a world more bright in inspiration, wisdom, knowledge, etc. Isn't this the Christ acting through us son's and daughters, brothers and sisters? Yes it is and this is lightening the load. Thank you!
Eric
- 3/2/2011Thanks!
Barb in Arizona
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian,
I always learn so much from the Daily Lifts and those that comment.
Richard Requarth Dayton, Ohio
- 3/2/2011Very encouraging thoughts and thank you to all you daily lifters on the BoL and those that choose to share their thoughts. The inspiration shared always blesses and this blessing business is a "load lightener!"
Donna, Florida
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian! Very much looking forward to your lecture in Ocala on April 2nd!
gail smith
- 3/2/2011Thank you for starting my day with those beautiful thoughts!!!! Gail Smith
This week's Christian Science Bible Lesson on 'Man', mentions that God's gentleness makes us great [Psalms]. I love contemplating the immensity and gentleness of God, divine Principle, Love.
As I move close to God in prayer, and lean on Him for healing, the result makes me feel great.
Thank you Brian.
Sandy, Moscow Mills Missouri
- 3/2/2011I was feeling rather burdened until I heard this lift. Thanks for the reminder to let go and to let God take over.
Grateful listener
- 3/2/2011Thanks so much Brian this was just what I needed as I have been feeling very burdened. And my deepest thanks to everyone responsible for bringing us these Daily Lifts. What a beautiful start to the day!
Nikki from Victoria Texas
- 3/2/2011So timely....thank you for the lovely lift..
Coral Barbados
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian! Great lift.
Sally
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian.
Jodi, St Louis, says:
- 3/2/2011Thank You Brian for such an inspired Lift. "My cup runneth over,"
The song birds are back as they were singing before the dawn today. And this Lift is indeed a blessing at any time and all the comments are inspiring too. Thank You all.
Margaret Sunshine Coast Australia
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian, for this inspiring Lift. We definitely are yoked to God, and His loving help is everywhere all the time. God prays with us, prompts us and keeps the smile on our face for everyone in the supermarket. God is so close to us He tells us the name of the bird we have in our sights, just as easily as we are reminded to pay our Corporate Body to be on time for the right day. Can't remember someone's name? God can. Need a special word for the best description? God has it and gives it at once. All that God is He gives to us, abundantly and not more for one than for another. Our yoke is light, as in all-knowing, and wonderfully loving and blessing, as in infinitely.
Thank you so much Nathan for another great week of Lifts and the preludes that lead our thoughts into them.
Brightlight
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian for this wonderfully loving "lift"...and God bless you all for your inspiring responses.
Love is Light
- 3/2/2011Hi Brian! Thank you so much for this Light and Lovely Lift! I used to have a sign on my desk that said: "Good Morning, this is God. I will be handling all your problems today. I do not need your help. So have a Good Day!" And of course, we all know "Let Go and Let God"! I think since God is All - our biggest job is just to Surrender to that Allness and Trust that God really does have our best interest at Heart! Our real job is just to Let Go and Free Fall into God's arms, the arms of Love. Trust, Trust, Trust! Blessings to All!
Joy in Alberta, Canada
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian.
This really helps!
El Paso Patt
- 3/2/2011What another fantastic metaphor. Thanks a million. Just let go, let God. Also I have a totally different view of the water buffalo. What a wonderful animal. I had no idea.
leslee
- 3/2/2011Perfect thought to start the day with. It reminds me of a statement Mrs. Eddy made, "God gives you strength according to your day".(whatever that day brings! Thanks for these lifts...I posted it to facebook too.
anon from NYC
- 3/2/2011Beautiful thoughts. Thank you so much for the image of the water buffalo. What a precious idea that our Father-Mother God is so near, so capable, so big and steady always. That we can safely lean on Him completely. I'm realizing too that sometimes the challenge is my lack of faith, my inability to grasp the nature of our omnipresent, omnipotent God, this steady loving strong presence, and yet Jesus comforts us with the fact that "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." Matt 17 So, even tho we may feel inadequate even in our faith, it really doesn't matter because even the tiniest hope and trust is incredibly powerful, and furthermore, that solid "water buffalo" hasn't gone anywhere, nothing good has diminished, nothing's changed regardless of what the senses scream to the contrary. I'm going to be sure I'm leaning on that "sustaining infinite" today!! Thank you again!
grasshopper
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian.
Of course, this Lift applies to my activities this week. I was feeling burdened but now I see that it will unfold gracefully and naturally and my fear is gone. It's that easy...Give it to God!
David
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian. This helped me understand the Psalm: "thy gentleness hath made me great." Gentle men are gracious because of their power and powerful because they are gracious -- like the water buffalo.
Thank you.
Susan
- 3/2/2011It really is possible to "see" the qualities of God reflected everywhere. Thanks, Brian.
Anni from Wash.
- 3/2/2011moving us into the wonderful world of animals with the water buffalo, is on the most beautiful analogies that's come to my desktop.
Particularly powerful in placing EVERY ONE of those dear ones isupposedly in No Man's Land bordering Libya in God's Safe Zone and blesses them en route.
Thank you for the new arrival, Brian. Lovely for the young and young in heart
mumsie. cololrado
- 3/2/2011Just what I needed! So simple!
California
- 3/2/2011Brian, your words, the loving tone in your voice, the gentle teaching with a
perfect metaphor, are just what I was looking for to share one of these (always great) Daily Lifts with a new-to-CS-Christian friend. Thank you!
Burdens are not from our Father-Mother-God! So: illusions, only!
Thanks, all you loving commenters, also. :<))
Happy burden-free day, everyone!! :<))
Sue
Barret, MD
- 3/2/2011Brian, thanks so much for this great lift. I, too, know the beauty of Thailand and felt great protection and love when I was there.
Gary - Nanaimo
- 3/2/2011What a delightful remedy for fatigue. The picture of confident happy children playing on a large gentle water buffalo. There are many things we can find in our adult lives that are trustworthy and joyful, useful and helpful.
Gary - Nanaimo
- 3/2/2011P.S. The Daily Lift is one of them.
Kaye from Kansas
- 3/2/2011Thank you so very much! The wonderful message is so tenderly delivered.
jill
- 3/2/2011Beautiful! Thank you, Brian!
Bonnie, Glenview, Il
- 3/2/2011That was incredibly helpful, Brian! I like the idea of the water buffalo; so big, strong, helpful and reliable. I am trying to be yoked to God for all my needs everyday, in every way. Thank you for the great reminder of our unending relationship with God and the visual of how much we can rely on Him.
Jim in St. Louis
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian! I like that idea of letting our love for God and our fellow man bear the burden. That really is our only debt, liability or requirement.
Dean
- 3/2/2011Thanks for the beautiful lesson about the gentle giant!
mel
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian, Water Buffalo "Oh gental presence peace and joy and power"...from Mrs. Eddy,s......."the mothers evening prayer"
Noel
- 3/2/2011thank you for the wonderful reminder that we can let Love bear burdens!
Willow
- 3/2/2011Thank you so much Brian!! That is such a beautiful and uplifting truth to hold onto every day! :)
Jessica Dornevil
- 3/2/2011Thank you very much Brian. What this lift is so wonderful. Thank you again.
Cyndy from Riverside, CA
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian, for this precious lift. It's just what I needed today. And as always, the comments so inspiring. I had to chuckle at #33 Richard's response about sharing inspiration brings blessings and that this "blessing business" is a "load lightener." So true!
Susan Carol
- 3/2/2011Very comforting Brian , Thank-you. Thank-you also to J.S. in KY (16/17).
You shared so lovingly with Dorrie.
Sandy from Canada
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian. So simple and refreshing. True freedom experienced when we trust all to God and lean on Him.
Maureen from Spearfish
- 3/2/2011Once again the Daily LIft meets me right where I am. My heart and soul have experienced MUCH healing the last months, but last night and this morning I slid into tears again, sadness over past experiences. Part of my turning away from that, and turning toward God, was to come listen to today's Lift.
Ah . . what comfort. The statement that Eddy opens Science and Health with is one I have clung to: To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings.
But Brian, you added one tiny yet huge point: we have to get real close in order to lean. Okay, that's my "direction" for today: snuggle up close to God, and then lean. Repeat as often as necessary. And whenever I feel "far away," just open my eyes and see that I have never left the arms of Love. Never. And all the rest of God's beloved children are snuggled up there, too. Amen.
Susan
- 3/2/2011Thank you so much Brian, for that wonderful analogy. Very interesting to learn that the water buffalo is so strong yet so kind and gentle! Your message was beautifully delivered the same way. It was exactly what I needed to hear today, and I felt my burdens lifted from my shoulders! Thank you, thank you!
Howard
- 3/2/2011Thank you for the "YOKE OF LOVE" message
Monrovia, Calif
Geordan
- 3/2/2011I will never look at a water buffalo (or any so-called beast of burden)the same way again. Many thanks!
Rhonda
- 3/2/2011That is so encouraging. I am re-realizing that I am yoked to God doing the heavy lifting. I am allowing Love to bear the burdens. (semi-quoting you!) Thank you.
And this brought something else to mind when mentioning that animal -- Service, being of service to humanity. What a privilege! True Religion undefiled. We can learn from that. Thanks again.
Mary Jo
- 3/2/2011"A big, useful friend" - I like that kind, loving image.
The Infinite strength of God lifts the heavy burdens.
Vonne Anne from Walnut Creek, CA
- 3/2/2011Thanks, Brian. Such a great and inspiring thought - liking the water buffalo to our Heavenly Father-Mother God's tender care.
G from California
- 3/2/2011Brian, your love-filled message perfectly illustrates for me the "gentle presence, peace and joy and power" of Mrs. Eddy's beautiful poem, "Mother's Evening Prayer." And your tender, love-filled delivery of the message was as healing balm to my ruffled sense this morning. Thank you!
robert donaldson, brunswick maine
- 3/2/2011When I wanted Mickey,a 16-year old Appaloosa gelding to lean or move one way or the other for whatever purpose, I pushed on one rump or the other and he would lean into the pressure, not away from it. That's just opposite of what human will tries to do. Very interesting to me to think about.
Thanks for the day-trip to Asia.
Sher
- 3/2/2011To lean we must be close to Him and we could say He is always close to us so we can always lean on Him even if we think we might not be close to Him. Reminds me of that song "Lean on Him."
Linda in Florida
- 3/2/2011Thank you Brian. As is so often the case, this "LIFT" is exactly the thought I needed for today.
Daphne, from South Africa
- 3/2/2011Thank you, Brian! I am first Readering for my Society here in Cape Town, South Africa, and also feeling burdened and under pressure to prepare the Wednesday Readings, and in view of this, It came to me to prepare the readings on this subject, and once begun, the readings flowed, as did the Hymns - 402, 119 and 299! One of the testifiers inquired whether I had listened to your Lift. I hadnt! She developed the ideas in the readings,tieing them in, with your lift! This impelled more comments on 'being yoked' to God, and that the daily study of the Lesson-Sermons yoke us to one another, and to God! The testimonies flowed! Likening this to sled dogs, each individual plays a necessary part in the team, and occupies a particular niche in the team and cant go off at a tangent, on its own to, say, chase a rabbit! After the service, we all listened to and enjoyed your lift on the testifier's Blackberry!!! Thank you,and to all the team of Daily Lifters and Nate!
Nate Frederick
- 3/2/2011This is a great lift. Thanks Brian.
rrh in Topeka, Kansas
- 3/2/2011Great stuff here, Brian. Many thanks, and have a good evening, all
David
- 3/2/2011The lift and comments are superb.
Carlos Alberto Gonzalez from Queensland, Australia
- 3/2/2011It is wonderful to hear messages like this one because they make me feel the 'infinite Love' of God in all I do. I am sure many people feel the same way. Thanks so much Brian, for such an encouraging idea!
en español
Es maravilloso escuchar mensajes como éste porque me hacen sentir el Amor infinito de Dios en todo lo que hago. Estoy seguro que muchas personas sienten lo mismo.¡Muchísimas gracias Brian, for una idea tan alentadora!
Janet P. J., Hawaii
- 3/2/2011Many Thanks !
That was a truly healing lift. The beauty, joy and grace, the harmony and sunshine of today reappeared. And I can't quite recall why I was so concerned about the events today...
12:06 pm HST
Carl Savage, Brisbane, Oz.
- 3/2/2011Thanks Brian, perfect timing.
Anne
- 3/2/2011What a nice word-picture you gave us, Brian! Thank you.
Britta
- 3/2/2011Thanks Brian, I love this story and this great picture you're painting. I wonder if I can keep one of those creatures in my backyard. :) Just kidding, I'll keep'em in thought.
Elizabeth B
- 3/2/2011Thank you very much.
A friend
- 3/2/2011What a great way to think about marriage -- yoked to Love.
Thanks, Brian.
Heike MartinVenezuela
- 3/2/2011Thank you so ,much we shall never hesitate to lean on God!
Joachim Mensing
- 3/2/2011thank you, makes me feel good!
Bea Elliott
- 3/2/2011Hello Brian and Daily Lift friends,
Although I'm not a Christian Scientist, I do enjoy receiving these Daily Lifts as an encouragement to live each day in a more thoughtful, spiritual way. Today's message had a separate layer for me to investigate the meaning of, because it uses the Asian water buffalo as an example of one who is gentle, yet sometimes feared. One who is there as a friend to whom to “yoke” our worries.
I learned as I searched the Internet for more history behind these docile giants, I was saddened to discover that the ancient traditions of treating them as precious "family members" has been replaced with one in which they are treated like objects -- valuable "stock."
When I read about the races and fights that they are unwilling participants in, I'm troubled with the likely corruption that goes along with these gambling practices.
Then, when I realize what it means to reduce a living, sentient being to nothing more than a commodity as in a “draft animal”... “meat animal” ... or “dairy animal” I’m disheartened even more. It seems that “Asian” water buffalo have been re-located to all parts of U.S. and other prosperous countries all for the sake of “exotic” cheeses or “rare-breed meats.” This causes me to wonder at the conditions these animals must have traveled in and how many families were broken apart. Is this what God wants us to do with our animal friends?
(continued in next post)
Bea Elliott
- 3/2/2011(resuming from previous post)
I also wonder whether, when Brian mentions that these buffalo are milked, are they treated like standard dairy cows, where the calves are removed from their mothers so humans may take the milk instead? Has this become an industry, wherein greed has caused us to disregard the value of innocent lives?
I'm all for prosperity and abundance, but I most urgently wonder this: Can good ever be had by violating helpless victims? I think it behooves any truth-seeker to look a little deeper.
Finally, I understand the concept of "service" but certainly it’s a condition that can be met only by one volunteering their good deeds or earnest labor. To say that any animal -- water buffalo or otherwise -- can “offer” themselves, is not being totally truthful. I think it’s important to venture beyond the unquestioned self-deceptions that trick us into believing that animals tender their labor or lives or children or milk willingly. It seems only fair and responsible to face the fact that the burdens and demands we place on other species is most often against their nature and desires. Accepting this in the full light of honesty comes closest to the virtues Christian Science represents and teaches.
Thank you for inviting comment and for considering my views. They are offered with the best intentions of helping create a kinder, more peaceful world.
Margarita from Argentina
- 3/3/2011Thank you Brian, this lift came today as an answer to my prayers. Love and gratitude to all of you.
Marion from Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- 3/3/2011What a beautiful, timely message Brian. Thank you so much.
Janice
- 3/3/2011This message is perfect for me as I seem to have so much "on my shoulders" but you have put it into the proper sense of things and I'm so grateful. I love the thought that "my yoke is easy and my burden is light".
These Daily Lifts are priceless and I'm so grateful for each one of them.
Carlos Alberto Gonzalez from Queensland, Australia
- 3/3/2011In response to 95. 96 'Bea Elliott says', Dear Bea, from the point of view of Christian Science, whatever the five senses show in the experience of all mankind will always be erroneous, even when beautiful or ugly . We learn in CS that 'reality' is spiritual, good, and cannot be reflected by matter. Perhaps some comments may seem hard to understand when people use certain analogies but if we go back to Genesis 1 and read in Science & Health with Key to the Scriptures what Mary Baker Eddy has to say about Creation (page 501 and the following 20 pages or so) you may begin to understand that we only have to accept the 'spiritual reality' of all things, people, animals, etc. That is how Jesus restored health and even life to many, not looking at the human experience but to the spiritual perfection, which is our 'real' experience, happening here and now instead of the false view. When last week I had some suggestions of experiencing a cold, I turned in prayer to God, good, who created me spiritual and perfect, not material. In my prayer I simply accepted in my consciousness that nothing bad or material was happening since God did not create anything bad, the symptoms simply disappeared and I felt well, which is the norm for everybody and everything. I did not accept the lie (suggestions of sickness), I accepted the spiritual reality, which, in fact, was, is and always will be intact.
Me-an
- 3/3/2011Thank you so much. I have been blessed so much just by listening.
shining ray
- 3/3/2011Oh so sweet. Thank you. Reminds me that the reflection can never bear the burden, only the original. I need this reminder.
Blessings to each lecturer and lifter!
alex
- 3/3/2011thank you-this paragon brought tears to my eyes.beautiful yolk bearing.
alex mills
- 3/3/2011thank you for this beautiful love bearing yolk,so light.with no material weight pulling down..it brought tears to my eyes,of joy.
Susan
- 3/3/2011To Bea #95 & #96 - Dear Bea, I fully appreciate your deep concern for the welfare of animals. Your caring message is one that, I believe, is slowly spreading into the hearts of many people worldwide. It may take awhile to educate mankind thus. Mary Baker Eddy, the discoverer and founder of CS had a fondness for animals, and, as a child, loved and cared for the animals on her farm. Her spiritual insight even at the tender age of five, enabled Mary to nurse the invalid animals quickly back to health and strength. Years later, she understood more clearly the deeper nature of spiritual healing and brought it to the world. We certainly don’t ignore the plight of every creature who shares this earth. And while we work to do everything we can to educate others and promote humane treatment of animals, it is important to hold the spiritual view of Life always in thought. This perfect, spiritual view is effective in counteracting injurious mortal concepts, and actually brings a change for good somewhere in the world. Try it. Mrs. Eddy says, “Good thoughts are an impervious armor; clad therewith you are completely shielded from the attacks of error of every sort. And not only yourselves are safe, but all whom your thoughts rest upon are thereby benefited.”
Brian Talcott
- 3/3/2011Thank you all for your kind and inspiring comments. It is nice to know that these images and metaphors, actually inspired by Jesus' words, help and heal.
Thanks also to Bea #95 &96 for her thoughtful comments; and to Carlos #100 and Susan #105 for your loving and useful responses to Bea. There is not much more to say, but to reiterate a point Susan made. As Christian Science teaches, it is as we lift thought to acknowledge and insist on the higher spiritual and good nature of all of God's creation that we begin to ameliorate and improve the condition of both humanity and all of the other creatures on the earth, treating one another with wisdom and respect God intends. Eddy shared this incredible insight in Science and Health, page 514: "The individuality created by God is not carnivorous, as witness the millennial estate pictured by Isaiah: — The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, And the leopard shall lie down with the kid; And the calf and the young lion, and the fatling together; And a little child shall lead them.
Understanding the control which Love held over all, Daniel felt safe in the lions' den, and Paul proved the viper to be harmless. All of God's creatures, moving in the harmony of Science, are harmless, useful, indestructible."
carolyn
- 3/3/2011Thank you
Holmquists
- 3/3/2011We love this-- water buffalos!
Thank you, Brian.
Julie
- 3/3/2011That was so awesome!!! For years I've read Mrs. Eddy's words from S&H, "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, today is big with blessings." This gave it an entirely new meaning and depth! Thanks so much!!!
momo from Bogor
- 3/3/2011I am so grateful. I've tears in my eyes listening to this DL.
No more doubt, God IS Father-Mother Love.
Bless you all lifters
Jan
- 3/4/2011This was very comforting. Thank you!
Barbara
- 3/5/2011What a wonderful reminder! Thank you!!
Sarah
- 3/5/2011What a great analogy! Thank you : )
Jeremy C.
- 3/10/2011Thank you Brian for the wonderful thoughts! Being reminded that we are yoked to God is extremely comforting and brings a sense of calm and humility. I know that each day can bring old and new burdens alike, weighing one's thoughts so to make the load seem overwhelming. Your uplifting thoughts remove the doubt of our connection to God, and reminds us that we don't have to lift the burden alone. God will lift it for us. Thank you!
Roselina AGOSSOU
- 3/14/2011Thank you Brian for your comforting message.