When training and encouragement are effective, a culture of
growth is nourished in which the believers see their duty to teach as a natural
consequence of having accepted Baha'u'llah. They "raise high the sacred
torch of faith," as was 'Abdu'l-Baha's wish, "labour ceaselessly, by
day and by night," and "consecrate every fleeting moment of their
lives to the diffusion of the divine fragrance and the exaltation of God's holy
Word." So enkindled do their hearts become with the fire of the love of
God that whoever approaches them feels its warmth. They strive to be channels
of the spirit, pure of heart, selfless and humble, possessing certitude and the
courage that stems from reliance on God. In such a culture, teaching is the
dominating passion of the lives of the believers. Fear of failure finds no
place. Mutual support, commitment to learning, and appreciation of diversity of
action are the prevailing norms.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a
message dated January 9, 2001, addressed to the Continental Boards of
Counsellors)
