January/February 2021
Too often, we ask much of spiritual teachers and guides, or of whatever divine power we may believe in, but how often do we think of and implement, however imperfectly, what is asked of us? Our excuses to ourselves range from “That is too difficult, why should I even try?” to “Oh yes, I will try that sometime”, and then the intention slips away.
Maitreya’s Messages have some unique characteristics. Each one has a certain declamatory style, full of gravitas, yet there is often a direct, almost intimate approach and a simplicity entirely devoid of pomposity.
In His first message, Maitreya addresses people as, “My brothers and sisters” and also as “My children, My friends”. He also tells us: “My manifestation is complete and accomplished. I am, verily, in the world.” He adds: “But there is much to do, much that needs changing in the world. Many hunger and die, many suffer needlessly”. And further: “I come to change all that; to show you the way forward — into a simpler, saner, happier life — together. No longer man against man, nation against nation, but together, as brothers, shall we go forth into the New Country.”
In His second message He speaks of “food which lies rotting in the storehouses of the world” and He offers His help to us as “Teacher, Protector, Friend and Guide”. Here also, Maitreya announces that the Masters who work with Him, The Masters of Wisdom, are also among us, and He asks us directly: “Help them in Their Work”. He explains: “Know, too, that They are building the New Age, through you.”
However, this does not happen by itself. When even a few gather together and begin to work for others — motivated by service rather than profit, personal ambition or a misplaced competitive rather than a co-operative spirit, answering the basic needs that enable men to live, to hope, to thrive — the Masters augment our efforts by sending Their energy. … Most urgent is the access to enough food and water, as well as shelter; but also help with education and training, which can take many forms, access to medical help, and even programs that enable people to meet, to talk, to share a meal and simply enjoy companionship. These efforts often develop into broader community efforts which, in turn, if successful, become blueprints which inspire others. Many people are stretching themselves beyond their own circle at this time, and the results, whether grand due to very generous donations or developing from modest beginnings, are bringing joy and genuine relief, even in the middle of a serious global pandemic.
So the task of salvation is evidently a collective and co-operative one, not one that Maitreya and the Masters of Wisdom will accomplish on Their own. This aspect may be difficult to accept for those awaiting a Saviour who will save us single-handedly. The realization that we must help and act together for change to happen and for the creation of that “New Country” is indeed sobering. …
Just how much responsibility rests on our shoulders is something Maitreya clarifies in His third message: “Mine is the task to lead and guide, but you, willingly, must follow. Otherwise, I can do nothing. My hands are tied by Law. The decision rests with mankind.” …
