My Thoughts On Gandhi

SUN., MAR. 20, 1983, 5:35 AM
FARM, STUDY

You didn’t wait for a meditation that might give you guidance in the writing of last night’s essay, o son, and now you have composed it. Since you have given it this much thought it shall be difficult to “prove” to anyone that these pages are My thoughts and not just more of your own. Just be faithful, and listen in the way that you now know well, and at least you shall know and be satisfied.

As you suspected, though it was not said in the film nor in your essay, the man called Gandhi was a highly developed soul who had a good and close relationship with Me. He lived a unique life with special opportunities, and the spirit with which he lived it was pleasing to Me. And it is pleasing to Me that so many people in your United States are seeing the film, an excellent portrayal of a life lived in such opposition to many of your current values.

His espousal of freedom from the British gives him enough positive identification with an early American experience to be acceptable… even intriguing, for he lead his country out of the Empire without generals, armies, and destructive battles. This is not your way, of course, (your nation’s way) for you value your wars and feel that you must be a strong military power. Wouldn’t it be interesting to see the United States become the world force for non-violence and turning the other cheek? It would be even more wonderful coming out of the background you have, but also unlikely. It would be a massive test of some of the most important teachings I brought to the world as Jesus… that most of you Americans learned as children in Sunday School. Can tyranny really be overcome with kindness, love, hard work done in joy, and non-violence? I say that it can, but not enough people, even Christians, are willing to live it with conviction, and get through the short term set-backs.

Gandhi’s life was lived in the midst of many religious heritages. His personal heritage was Hindu, and he lived it at its best, recognizing the important manifestations of God, even beyond those in the Hindu tradition. He knew the power of the Moslem faith and the dedication of many folk in that tradition. He learned the history of the Jewish people, and he identified in some powerful ways with Me, as Jesus. He also knew Buddhism, though that was not portrayed as important. Through all of these he recognized My sovereignty and power, and he availed himself of it. I was pleased to give it.

I am not displeased with an earth that has many religious traditions and practices. I like the Christian best… but I say this to you as encouragement to continue in this faith, which is your heritage. What do I say to a Buddhist or Moslem seeker… one who is responding to My call, much as you are? Am I calling all to be One Way, and most are resisting and denying Me? Am I calling Catholics to be Pentecostals? Am I calling all souls to be Presbyterian Christians? Does it seem likely?