Reflect upon the destructive forces at work that are
destabilizing equilibrium across the face of the globe, including the situation
that prevails in your own land [Iran]. Power is seized and exercised in a
manner that twists or obscures the truth to serve the special interests of the
few at the expense of the many. Fanaticism is unleashed in the name of
religion, such that it distorts human behaviour and promotes social strife in a
manner that stands in stark contrast to the spiritual qualities and social
well-being which the Messengers of God sacrificed themselves to foster.
Materialism dulls the human spirit, trapping that bird, which should soar in
the heavens, in the mire of self-indulgence and animalistic tendencies. As
human beings are buffeted by these forces, they long for truth and that which
is right and become impelled to discover a way out of this morass. Inspired by
the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, you stand against such negative forces, you
respond to this search for truth, and together with others of like mind you
serve the process of the construction of a just and peaceful world. Praised be
God that you are engaged in carrying out the admonitions of your Beloved.
(The
Universal House of Justice, from a message dated 1 October 2014 to the Baha’is
of Iran)
