To know you’re doing something in God’s name, have the intention to first come into the presence of the divine. – John Morton
This Q&A was originally published in the New Day Herald in April 2010.
Question: How can I know if I am doing something in God’s name?
Answer: To know you’re doing something in God’s name, have the intention to first come into the presence of the divine. It isn’t necessarily something particular in the way you do it. It’s not what you say or pray. It’s not even who you pray to. It’s the depth of your intention that matters.
The word “Darshan” refers to seeing and beholding the Holy Presence. It refers to looking within to receive the presence of the master. So Darshan is an intention in a process of worship. It doesn’t necessarily have to do with what or who is present physically as much as it is your intention to see the divine.
Don’t compare yourself to what other people are having as their experiences. That’s often a trap from the curiosity of the mind and the ego. If your intention is to have a greater focus with the divine, a greater revelation with the divine, then that which is the divine instrument in you, the master in you, can help refine the focus for you. So your instrument — and by that I mean your physical consciousness — can be refined by the inner master as you come into the Darshan, the Holy Revelation, which comes about by your intention.
Call upon God’s presence and call in God’s name. Do your inner work by presenting yourself in spiritual exercise. Look, observe, and be aware. Let go of any expectations you have about what’s supposed to be happening. Instead, observe with awareness, paying attention, watching and listening to what shows up in your awareness that you identify as coming from Spirit. Putting in quality time and being consistent takes commitment. It takes willingness. It means doing it rather than not doing it. By making yourself available in this way, you show your dedication to serving in God’s name.
Baruch Bashan
WATCH A BLESSING WITH JOHN MORTON
