The Chosen

There is a growing sense that the World is dividing between two camps, with each seeing themselves as “The Chosen” or “The ones who are right”. Attitudes along this divide ranges from one of compassion for those deemed in error, to outright disdain and condemnation of them.

This definitional divide is no longer confined to religion. Today, it pervades almost every aspect of human life - politics, social and economic. Increasingly, politics in many countries is being defined as a deathly struggle between “Good” and “Evil”; with each camp seeing their own stance as promoting Good.

Harsh words such as the “Evil Empire”, the “Great Satan”, “The Anti-Christ” are now commonly used, even by non-believers, to describe their opponents, or those who do not subscribe completely to their world view. Any actions taken by opposing leaders are invariably dismissed and ascribed as evil, regardless of any benefits that may accrue to its followers or citizens. The religious minded go so far as to claim that their way of Life is the GOD-Chosen way and believe that they have been Called to convert others, forcibly or otherwise, to their own point of view. The term “Chosen by GOD” is becoming more openly and vocally used to justify actions in domestic and international politics. For example, the conflict in the Middle East is increasingly shrouded and viewed along this line. And we are seeing Religious leaders weighing in to “bless and anoint” political leaders, in re-enactments of Samuel and Saul of the Old Testament Judeo-Christian script.

Today’s Religious extremism is equally matched by the Ultra-liberals who are pushing their views and ways of life upon individuals and societies that may wish to live differently. They too, in the firm belief in the “rightness of their cause”, are using every means at their disposal to achieve their goal. The evangelical zeal with which the globalization of Culture, Economics and Business is pursued bears evidence of this, with the tactics employed including deception, enticement and cajoling, if necessary. For example the 2022 IMF Strategy Toward Mainstreaming Gender calls for a gradual, systematic integration of gender considerations into the IMF's core work of surveillance, lending, and capacity development (CD). In other words, any country whose cultural values with respect to the role of the sexes or sexual orientation are different from the ultra-liberal agenda will be denied international financing that they need to develop their economy!

A simple study of the history of religious activities should give ample evidence of where all of this is likely to end. The resulting long term effects of many bloody and violent clashes, propelled by the belief in the rightness or righteousness of one’s position, or that GOD has chosen, or is on one side or the other of warring factions, show conclusively that GOD could not have Chosen any side. Lasting peace, or the utopia that was promised, never manifested in these strife torn societies regardless of which side won the battle. This should suggest to us that there must be something wrong with our understanding of the concept of what is Right, and the term Chosen.

The Ultra-liberals may not use the name of The Creator as justification for their actions. Nevertheless, their conviction in their extremist and overzealous views, or bullying tactics will also backfire and only lead to more conflict and strife.

Unfortunately, when the consequences come, they first manifest in the Spirit (Psyche) and are often not immediately recognized as the result of actions once taken. For example, how many appreciate that the rise of secularism in our world today is the result of religious extremism on the part of those who thought that they were trying to uphold GOD’s words and to save the souls of their fellow men and women?

Already, we can see an increase in disaffection and emotional/psychological problems in societies in which the ultra-liberal views and practices have become more entrenched. But, how many there appreciate, or are ready to consider the correlation of this situation with the solutions to the gender question that form the core of today’s ultra-liberal ideology?

Perhaps, it is time for human beings to cultivate the correct understanding of what it means to be Right or Chosen, because, surely, our understanding and use of these terms have not resulted in the Peace that we all so yearn for.

But first, whether we agree or not, we have to recognize that man is foremost of Spirit, and any investigation or understanding must be from a Spiritual perspective. No one can or should be forced to recognize or appreciate this. It is strictly one of personal choice. But the consequence is inescapable. Therefore, it is left to the individual to choose to continue the exploration of this matter, which will now be discussed strictly from a Spiritual perspective.

Jesus Christ affirmed the concept of being Chosen in Matthew 22:14: “Many are Called but few are Chosen”. This is evidence that indeed a person, or a group could be justifiably described as Chosen. But the quote clearly shows that receiving a Call and being Chosen are two very different things. And, the first does not automatically lead to the second.

So, what does Jesus mean by being “Called”, and what does it mean to be “Chosen”?

Christ’s teachings and parables make it clear that the Calling is directed first and foremost at the Spirit – the real essence of the human being. The true nature of this Calling is further described in Matthew 16:22-24 when Jesus told his disciples “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me”.

This statement by Jesus is not limited, as many have interpreted, to religious practices or Spirituality. Rather, it encompasses ALL aspects of human living and activity. Therefore the real Call applies to all areas of human activity. In practice, it is first and foremost directed at engaging in ennobling activities and spiritual self-growth.

Jesus’ Parable of the Sower suggests that ideally ALL human spirits are being Called, which is the reason for all the helpers who have come to tell humanity about the path that leads to real peace and harmonious living on earth. Unfortunately not many have or are answering the Call. And from those who answer only a few and far between end up being Chosen.

So, what does it mean to be Chosen?

Frist of all, the Spiritual perspective from which we are reviewing this subject debunks the popular notion that our fellow men and women whom we describe as Chosen are “favored” recipients of Divine grace. On the contrary, Divine grace is always available to all who choose to adapt themselves to receive it. And adaptation involves “constructive endeavors” reflected in the Spiritual quality of our activities. Thus Jesus said in Matthew 7:21    "Not everyone who keeps saying to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will get into the kingdom of heaven, but only the person who keeps doing the Will of my Father in heaven.”

From this passage, one can infer that being Chosen means being admitted, by virtue of the change that one has undergone in one’s Spirit, to become connected to the power stream that flows from Heaven, and ultimately earning the possibility of admission into Heaven. Thus, being Chosen is the resulting consequence of having “taken up the cross” and living by it. In other words, if people do not bring “spiritually ennobling higher qualities” into their work, they should under no circumstance expect the distinction of being ‘Chosen’.

Now, how many, in light of this new definition, can, in good conscience, still consider themselves, or those they admire and support, as truly Chosen?

Of course there are those who use historical accounts, from their respective sacred books, as justification and confirmation of their being Chosen. For such people who may be genuine, but are mistaken in their belief, the following excerpt from one of Abdrushin’s writings should give pause for deeper reflection.

“Man, how do you stand!” That is what the Law of Creation demands in the Judgment!....

Do not concern yourself about what you have been on earth in former times! Such knowledge can avail you nothing during the Judgment, for it is of no account! Only later, when you are more mature, can it convey certain things to you!......

What does it matter to the Law in this Creation whether you were once an emperor or a king here on earth, an apostle or a pope! “Man, how do you stand!”—that is what everyone will have to answer through his experiencing! And your answer lies in this present life, in your innermost state alone!”

The discerning can see clearly from this that the same is expressed by Jesus Christ of what it means to be Chosen. That is, being Chosen is determined by one’s present state and not by one’s past state, or that of one’s ancestors, or affiliation! And to maintain this state requires, from the individual, a devoted, persistent, and faithful outlook that is dedicated to cultivating only lasting qualities that contribute to up building activities in Creation. Nothing else!

Also, being “Chosen” is not based only on the work or activity in which one is engaged. Equally and perhaps more important is the motivation and attitude with which the activity is pursued. The motivation being what is driving the person. Is it personal ambition/recognition or the greater enhancement and development of one’s Spiritual environment?

Attitude is indicated in the understanding with which the activity is pursued. In other words, has one taken into consideration the environment i.e. the conditions prevailing and maturity of the audience, in pursuing the activity, and showing understanding respect and tolerance for them? Otherwise, the best of intentions can yield the opposite and disastrous results, even though nobly motivated, when actions are pursued with the wrong attitude.

The teachings of Jesus Christ, and many of the sacred books, contain explanations and examples of how any serious seeker can learn to pattern their lives along the correct Spiritual principles of creation. Unfortunately, as anyone who has tried this path of learning knows, much of the interpretations that a seeker will find in the supporting books or catechisms of most teachings are sometimes so contradictory and confusing, to leave one perplexed.

Fortunately, many who have read Abdrushin’s[1]  writings have found that they help to clarify much that was confusing or irreconcilable with their inner sensing. The serious seeker is invited, if they wish, to explore this new source of knowledge regarding Life and Spiritual questions.

Indeed, it can said that once again, A Call has gone anew to all of mankind. But as always, it is still our choice to respond, or to shut our ears. And each person, in responding to and living the Call, must do so in their own way, to have any hope of inwardly changing to become Chosen. Jesus Christ stressed the importance and responsibility for developing our individual ability in The Parable of Talents.

Hopefully, as more people come to accept this Spiritual perspective of Life, mankind and the Earth may begin to free itself from the devastating consequences of the misunderstanding or abuse of many sacred concepts, out of ignorance or in pursuit of personal ambitions. Notwithstanding, each person ought to appreciate that, by virtue of our individual gift of Spirit, we shall be held culpable and accountable for allowing ourselves to be misled or swayed.

[1] Abdrushin’s comprehensive work is available in the book “In The Light of Truth (The Grail Message) Published by The Grail Message Foundation https://www.grailessage.com)