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1. building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

Welcome — Why This Exists

I began this journey because I believe we are living in a time that calls for building bridges, not arguments. As a Bahá’í who deeply loves and reveres Jesus the Christ, I have spent years exploring the "ocean of God’s Understanding" found within the Bible. I started this series to share how the lens of a living revelation allows us to look at familiar scriptures with "fresh eyes," seeing Christ not as replaced, but as profoundly fulfilled.

In this space, you will receive daily reflections that honor the Bible as the Word of God. Each post follows a trusted rhythm: a brief evocative hook, a selection of Holy Scripture, and a gentle reflection that deepens our understanding through the lens of progressive revelation. We will explore the "One Light" that has shone through many lamps throughout history.

You can expect to hear from me every day. My hope is that these posts serve as a "pastoral, reflective" companion on your spiritual walk, helping us to discover together that God has never stopped speaking to His children.

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building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

Peace Is Not the Absence of Storms

Peace is not the absence of the struggle—it is the presence of Christ within it.

A Peace Not of This World: In the Gospel of John, Christ offers a peace that is unlike anything the world can provide—a peace that is not dependent on our outward circumstances or the calmness of the seas around us.

The Power of Reliance: This inner stillness is found through total reliance on the Divine. The Bahá’í writings echo this biblical truth, describing a calm that no outer condition can take away when the heart is anchored in God.

Loosening the Grip of Fear: When we pause to remember that we are "held" by a Power greater than the storm, fear begins to lose its hold on our spirits. Transformation begins when we move from trying to control the wind to trusting the One who walks upon the water.

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building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

Peace Is Not the Absence of Storms

Peace is not the absence of the struggle—it is the presence of Christ within it.

A Peace Not of This World: In the Gospel of John, Christ offers a peace that is unlike anything the world can provide—a peace that is not dependent on our outward circumstances or the calmness of the seas around us.

The Power of Reliance: This inner stillness is found through total reliance on the Divine. The Bahá’í writings echo this biblical truth, describing a calm that no outer condition can take away when the heart is anchored in God.

Loosening the Grip of Fear: When we pause to remember that we are "held" by a Power greater than the storm, fear begins to lose its hold on our spirits. Transformation begins when we move from trying to control the wind to trusting the One who walks upon the water.

Today, when anxiety rises, I invite you to pause, breathe, and inwardly whisper: "I am held." Let’s walk this path of peace together—building bridges, not arguments.

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building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

What I’m Learning About the Heart as a Mirror

For a long time, I thought spiritual "vision" was about having all the right answers or the most correct doctrines. But I am learning that seeing God begins within.

When Christ said, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God," He was placing vision not in the eyes or the intellect, but in the heart’s capacity for openness. I am discovering that truth is not something I possess or "win" in an argument; it is something I grow into as I live it.

My personal truth is that my heart is like a mirror. When it is covered in the dust of ego, resentment, or the need to be "right," it cannot reflect the Light of the Divine. I am learning that the most important work I do each day is the "polishing" of that mirror through humility and love.

This series is an invitation to join me in that polishing. We don't have to have it all figured out to begin. We only need to be willing to ask, seek, and knock with an honest heart, trusting that the door will always open to those who seek with love.

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building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Blessed Are the Pure in Heart
Seeing God begins within.

Scripture
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” — Matthew 5:8

Reflection
Christ places vision not in the eyes—but in the heart.
Purity here is not perfection, but openness.
Many traditions echo this: clarity of heart reveals truth.
The more we release ego and attachment, the more we perceive the Divine.

Bridge Insight
In Bahá’í thought, the heart is a mirror—polished through love and humility.

Daily Practice
Let go of one resentment today.

Closing Invitation
Walk this path gently—with others.
Padlet: https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

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4

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Invitation Begins
What if Christ is still speaking—right now?

Scripture
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock…” — Revelation 3:20

Reflection
Christ’s invitation was never confined to one moment in history.
He spoke to hearts then—and continues now.
Across time, God has always reached toward humanity.
In many traditions, this same knocking is recognized as the voice of the Divine calling us forward.

Bridge Insight
The Bahá’í writings speak of God’s voice renewed in every age—yet always the same loving call.

Daily Practice
Pause for 2 minutes and inwardly “listen.”

Closing Invitation
Let’s listen together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet: https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

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Revelation 3-20 I Stand at the Door-aqua 2

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building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Kingdom Is Within
What if heaven is closer than we think?

Scripture
“The kingdom of God is within you.” — Luke 17:21

Reflection
Christ redirects us inward—not away from the world, but into its deeper meaning.
The Divine is not distant—it is present.
Spiritual traditions across the world affirm this inner reality.
Transformation begins within—and radiates outward.

Bridge Insight
Bahá’u’lláh teaches that within each soul lies a divine trust waiting to be uncovered.

Daily Practice
Spend 3 minutes in quiet awareness of your inner life.

Closing Invitation
Let’s rediscover together.
Padlet: https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

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building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Love One Another
The simplest command—and the hardest.

Scripture
“Love one another as I have loved you.” — John 13:34

Reflection
Christ’s love crossed boundaries, identities, and expectations.
It was active, sacrificial, and inclusive.
Across faiths, love is the highest law.
Where love grows, division fades.

Bridge Insight
The Bahá’í teachings call love the force that unites the world.

Daily Practice
Offer one unexpected act of kindness.

Closing Invitation
Let love be our shared language.
Padlet link above

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Curiosity Over Certainty
Certainty can close hearts—curiosity opens them.
Today, ask one sincere question.
That’s where understanding begins.
building bridges, not arguments
https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2
#BuildingBridges #Curiosity #Unity #Interfaith AI generated
22 May 2026
building bridges, not arguments
Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2
– The Light of the World
Light is meant to be shared.
Scripture
“You are the light of the world.” — Matthew 5:14
Reflection
Christ not only brought light—He called us to be light.
This light is reflected in every soul.
Many traditions speak of humanity as carriers of divine illumination.
We shine brightest when we serve.
Bridge Insight
In Bahá’í thought, each person reflects God’s attributes uniquely.
Daily Practice
Encourage someone sincerely.
Closing Invitation
Let’s shine—together.

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23 May 2026
building bridges, not arguments
Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2
– Ask, Seek, Knock
Spiritual growth begins with longing.
Scripture
“Ask… seek… knock…” — Matthew 7:7
Reflection
Christ invites effort—not passive belief.
Seeking is a sacred act.
Across traditions, the search itself draws us closer to truth.
Questions are not weakness—they are doors.
Bridge Insight
The Bahá’í Faith honors independent investigation of truth.
Daily Practice
Ask one honest spiritual question today.
Closing Invitation
Let’s explore without fear.
Living the Message
Not every truth needs to be argued—some are meant to be lived.
Today, embody the peace you wish to see.
Example is the strongest bridge.
building bridges, not arguments
https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2
#BuildingBridges #LiveTheTruth #Unity #SpiritualReflection AI generated

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24th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Good Shepherd
You are not forgotten.

Scripture
“I am the good shepherd…” — John 10:11

Reflection
Christ’s care is intimate and personal.
The Divine knows each soul.
Across religions, God is described as guide, protector, and companion.
We are always being led—if we listen.

Bridge Insight
Bahá’í writings describe divine educators guiding humanity age by age.

Daily Practice
Reflect on where you feel guided.

Closing Invitation
Walk with us.

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25th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Forgive Seventy Times Seven

What if forgiveness frees you?
Scripture: Matthew 18:22
Reflection: Forgiveness heals the giver as much as the receiver… echoed in many traditions as liberation from attachment.
Bridge: Bahá’í teachings emphasize releasing the past.
Practice: Forgive one small hurt.
Closing: Build bridges, not arguments…

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26th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Do Not Be Afraid
Peace is not the absence of storms—but the presence of Christ within them.

Scripture
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27

Reflection
Christ offers a peace unlike the world’s—a peace not dependent on circumstance.
Even in uncertainty, His presence steadies the heart.
Across traditions, this same inner stillness is described as trust in the Divine.
Fear begins to loosen when we remember we are held.

Bridge Insight
The Bahá’í writings speak of a peace that comes from reliance on God—a calm that no outer condition can take away.

Daily Practice
When anxiety rises today, pause and breathe the words: “I am held.”

Closing Invitation
Let’s walk this path of peace together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet: https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

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27th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Faith Like a Mustard Seed
Great transformations often begin invisibly.

Scripture
“If you have faith as small as a mustard seed… nothing will be impossible for you.” — Matthew 17:20

Reflection
Christ does not ask for perfect faith—only living faith.
Even the smallest trust, planted sincerely, can grow beyond imagination.
Many traditions affirm that spiritual growth begins quietly, like a seed beneath the soil.
What matters is not size—but sincerity.

Bridge Insight
In the Bahá’í teachings, every great change in the world begins in the unseen transformation of hearts.

Daily Practice
Take one small step of faith today—however simple.

Closing Invitation
Let’s grow together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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28th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Greatest Commandment
All of faith—distilled into love.

Scripture
“Love the Lord your God… and love your neighbor as yourself.” — Matthew 22:37–39

Reflection
Christ simplifies the entire law into two movements: love for God and love for others.
These are not separate—they reflect one reality.
Across religions, love is the foundation of spiritual life.
Where love deepens, unity emerges.

Bridge Insight
The Bahá’í Faith teaches that love for humanity is inseparable from love for God.

Daily Practice
Show kindness to someone you would normally overlook.

Closing Invitation
Let love guide us—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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29th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Blessed Are the Peacemakers
Peace is not passive—it is something we create.

Scripture
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9

Reflection AI generated
Christ calls us not just to love peace—but to make peace.
This requires courage, humility, and initiative.
Many traditions honor those who reconcile hearts and heal divisions.
Peace begins wherever someone chooses understanding over reaction.

Bridge Insight
Bahá’í teachings emphasize unity as an active responsibility—something we build together.

Daily Practice
Take one step today to repair or soften a strained relationship.

Closing Invitation
Let’s be builders of peace—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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31st May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Vine and the Branches
We flourish when we remain connected.

Scripture
“I am the vine; you are the branches… apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5

Reflection  AI generated
Christ reminds us that spiritual life is not self-generated—it flows from connection.
When we remain rooted in Him, life moves through us.
Many traditions speak of humanity’s connection to a divine source.
Disconnection leads to dryness—connection brings life.

Bridge Insight
Bahá’í teachings describe humanity as sustained by a continuous relationship with the Divine.

Daily Practice
Take a quiet moment to reconnect through prayer or stillness.

Closing Invitation
Let’s stay connected—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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1st June 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Truth Will Set You Free
Truth is not something we possess—it is something we grow into.

Scripture
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” — John 8:32

Reflection  AI generated
Christ links truth with freedom—not control.
Truth unfolds as we live it, not just define it.
Across spiritual traditions, truth is seen as vast, layered, and living.
The deeper we go, the freer we become.

Bridge Insight
The Bahá’í Faith emphasizes the independent search for truth—free from blind imitation.

Daily Practice
Seek understanding today—before reacting or judging.

Closing Invitation
Let’s explore truth together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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2nd June 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Judge Not
What if understanding matters more than being right?

Scripture
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” — Matthew 7:1

Reflection  AI generated
Christ calls us to humility in how we see others.
Judgment often closes the door to deeper understanding.
Many traditions teach that only God sees fully.
When we release judgment, compassion can grow.

Bridge Insight
In Bahá’í teachings, humility is essential—recognizing that no one holds the whole truth alone.

Daily Practice
Pause before judging—choose curiosity instead.

Closing Invitation
Let’s walk humbly together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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3rd June 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– The Narrow Way
The deepest paths are often the quietest.

Scripture
“Small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” — Matthew 7:14

Reflection  AI generated
Christ speaks of a path that is not crowded or obvious.
It is not about exclusion—but intention.
Across traditions, the spiritual path is described as one of awareness, sincerity, and discipline.
It is not found by following the crowd—but by awakening the heart.

Bridge Insight
Bahá’í teachings suggest that truth requires independent searching—not simply inheritance.

Daily Practice
Take one quiet moment today to reflect on your intentions.

Closing Invitation
Let’s walk this path together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet: https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

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30th May 2026

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

– Take Up Your Cross
Transformation often comes disguised as difficulty.

Scripture
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” — Luke 9:23

Reflection AI generated
Christ’s path is not comfort—but transformation.
To “take up the cross” is to release the self that holds us back.
Across traditions, growth requires letting go—of ego, attachment, and illusion.
In surrender, something greater is born.

Bridge Insight
In the Bahá’í writings, true freedom comes through detachment and alignment with God’s will.

Daily Practice
Let go of one attachment that is weighing on your spirit.

Closing Invitation
Let’s walk this path together—building bridges, not arguments.
Padlet link above

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I am going to do a long series of posts on The Bible.

🌿

building bridges, not arguments

OVERARCHING VISION OF THE SERIES

Series Title Ideas:

“One Light, Many Lamps: Rediscovering the Bible Through a Living Revelation”

“Christ Still Speaks: A Journey Through the Bible with Fresh Eyes”

“From Promise to Fulfillment: A Daily Walk Through Scripture”

building bridges, not arguments

In this series of posts on The Bible

The Core Spirit is:

Not corrective → illuminative

Not argumentative → invitational

Not comparative → unifying

Not “Bahá’í vs Christian” → “Christ fulfilled, not replaced”

Since The Bible is The Word Of God and God is beyond all knowledge – every word of the Bible is equally beyond all knowing. Thus our exploration together is improved by hearing all understandings of all passages so that we can grasp more fully the ocean of God’s Understanding – rather than limiting our grasp to one understanding because of arguing to be “the only right understanding”.

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

Voice Tone:

Deeply reverent toward Jesus The Christ

Rooted in the Bible first.  What does The Bible actually say.

Gently opening doors toward Bahá’u’lláh.

Compassionate, pastoral, reflective

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

🌅 STRUCTURE OF EACH DAILY POST

Each post follows a consistent, trusted rhythm:

1.      Hook (1 line)
→ evocative, poetic, or relatable

2.      Scripture (1–2 verses)
→ always from the Bible

3.      Reflection (3–5 lines)
→ begins within Christian understanding
→ then gently deepens (progressive revelation lens)   What do other Holy Books – Other Holy teachings have to say about that idea.

4.      Bridge Insight (1–2 lines)
→ introduces a Bahá’í perspective without pressure

5.      Daily Practice (1 simple action)
→ prayer, reflection, act of love

6.      Closing Invitation
→ soft, never forceful

building bridges, not arguments

Link to Padley site

https://padlet.com/ksbloodw/building-bridges-not-aeguments-io6ed6eqyd7hzaw2

🌍 CORE THEMATIC ARC (LONG SERIES FLOW)

This is a multi-month (or year-long) arc that unfolds like a spiritual journey:

🌱 PHASE 1: RETURNING TO THE HEART OF CHRIST (Weeks 1–4)

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This site filled up - won't accept more posts - so I am moving everything to:

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Building Bridges not Arguments: Interfaith Dialogue