Kaysha Sahai Reid

[Previously Published] New book on Shroud of Turin claims Jesus' resurrection was an illusion

Christians all around the world are about to celebrate Holy Week and Easter; yet a new book by historian Thomas de Wesselow, "The Sign: The Shroud of Turin and the Secret of the Resurrection" claims The Shroud of Turin, one of the most studied artifacts in history, was really the burial cloth of Christ. He insists that the sight of the shroud misled disciples into believing Jesus had risen from the dead.

The Shroud of Turin is a linen cloth bearing the image of a man who appears to have experienced severe trauma, similar to Christ's crucifixion. For years there has been debate among scientists, theologians, historians and researchers, whether the linen was the actual cloth that wrapped Jesus' crucified body, or simply a medieval forgery.

Although the shroud has never been formally endorsed nor rejected by the Catholic Church, the image was approved in association with the Roman Catholic devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus by Pope Pius XII in 1958. It was then later declared a forgery in 1988, after a controversial radiocarbon dating analysis was done on small samples of the shroud.

Today, author and historian Thomas de Wesselow insists that the examination is flawed, claiming the disciples confused the sight of the Shroud after the crucifixion for a resurrected Jesus. According to a statement sent to The Huffington Post, de Wesselow claims his book proves why Christianity was able to "take over the world so quickly and convincingly after the death of Jesus."

de Wesselow writes:

"Did the earliest Christian followers really see the Risen Christ, or did they see an image of him emblazoned on a linen burial cloth, which they thought of as miraculous? Was that what sparked the faith needed to launch the religion that in a few centuries would take over the world for thousands of years? I believe it was, and I believe I prove that in The Sign."

The book release has garnered a mixed response to the validity of the shroud. The Guardian's Peter Stanford admits "the exact nature of the Resurrection" troubles him. He writes, "was it physical, against all the laws of nature as the Church claims, or was it ‘symbolic’, as the Bishop of Durham, David Jenkins, famously suggested in 1984?" While Catholic Herald's Francis Phillips calls Jenkins assertions, "heretical and unedifying ramblings."

"The Sign: The Shroud of Turin and the Secret of the Resurrection" will be released on April 3, 2012.

Why do we judge others?

Jesus said the following in Matthew 7:1-5:

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?"

Then he goes on to say:

"Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye?" Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

Wow... those last two verses set me straight every time.

But seriously, why do we judge others? The thing is, even when we find ourselves in a situation where our goal is to help the person, we do have to be aware that the truth can only take root in love.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. - 1 Peter 4:8

But, what does it really mean to judge?

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines judgment as, "the process of forming an opinion or evaluation by discerning and comparing." Clearly, this is a normal process for all human beings. Therefore, when it comes to forming an opinion or discerning something about another individual, it is really how we use that information or our intentions toward that person that make it either offensive or acceptable.

Judgement or condemnation is oftentimes associated with self-righteousness. However, if we truly examine ourselves, we'll see that it is really just the result of (as the definition above states) unwarranted discernment, as well as a habitual comparison with others.

Our supposed differences are evident in the physical, in our talents and gifts, the way we behave and even in the way we think. In fact, there are many theories on human behavior and why we differ. One of which is the theory of left-brain or right-brain dominance. In Psychology, this is based on what is often referred to as the lateralization of brain function.

According to this theory, each individual is said to prefer one side of the brain over another. For instance, if a person is said to be "left-brained", then they are supposedly more analytical, logical and objective. On the other hand, an individual who is "right-brained" may be more intuitive, subjective and thoughtful.

Many have disputed the accuracy of this concept, because they have reason to believe that it is when both hemispheres of the brain are working together that it is really functioning at its best. However, if the "left-brain or right-brain dominance" concept is at all accurate, then I would imagine that this would also affect one's experience of God. For instance, in my exchanges with people, specifically fellow Christ-followers, I've observed that there are some who see God as more orderly and precise (which is very necessary); then, there are some who are a little more creative in the way they express their encounter with God (which is also quite necessary).

Unfortunately, we often judge each other based on these differences. The judgement often goes both ways. Yet we have to constantly remind ourselves that while we are all made in God's image (Genesis 1:27), we see but a dim reflection (1Corinthians 13:12). Therefore, one thing that He is and that we are not at this time, is perfect.

As human beings, the greatest gift that God has given us through His son Jesus Christ, is the gift of Grace; commonly defined as "the unmerited favor of God." One of the main things that Grace allows us to do is to discover who we are in Him and to use that to glorify Him. For the Bible tells us that we are all perfected in Christ Jesus (Colossians 1:27-28).

A lot of times we forget that even the life of a Christ-follower is a journey, and "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23 KJV). Sometimes, the revelations God has given us are for our lives, and not necessarily for others. In fact, the Bible tells us that imposing our own beliefs on others can cause them to stumble. This is why judgment should really be left in God's hands.

So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean. If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died. Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. - Romans 14:12-17 (NIV)

I also find God to be a little humorous at times. This is because I think He knew exactly what He was doing when He created us with so many apparent differences. The Bible tells us that God is Spirit (John 4:24) and that we were all made in His image (Genesis 1:27).

Loving our neighbor as our self is the second greatest commandment, next to loving God. But, in many ways than one, a critical spirit is among the main deterrents to us growing in love.

Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. - John 7:24 (KJV)

The truth is, I have never met a person that was just totally comfortable with being judged, even those who claim they are never affected by it. Most times those are the people that will never admit that they are hurt (even to themselves), and even worse, often deal with it in an unhealthy way. Admittedly, sometimes all it takes is a quick moment of perspective, but there has to be some type of clear acknowledgement.

The bottom line is, there is a straight forward way to get around this—Jesus said it plain and simple in Luke 6:37: Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

This is definitely one of the most difficult truths to accept, but if you examine your own experiences, you'll see that there is surely a lot of validity to this...

Love

Two common characteristics of love, is that it is patient and kind. So when we discern or observe something about someone else and we are led to dissect that individual, use it for our own benefit or against them, or even when we just simply have difficulty with respecting another person's differences, we are really operating from the spirit of fear.

Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of [his] brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another? - James 4:11 - 12 (KJV)

And again, condemning others is a temptation that is not foreign to any individual. Basically, what I have learned is that as children of the most high God, it is just wise to always be conscious of our judgement toward others. In fact, for many of us, it is where the core of our healing begins.

Putting on Love

Sometimes what we see in others is just an indication of that person's level of faith at the time. But the Bible tells us in Romans 14:1 that, "Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations." And yet condemning them may be an indication that there is something going on with us. For remember, the word also tells us that "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour" (Romans 13:10). Therefore, in those moments when we perceive or discern something unfavorable in another and are tempted to give into condemnation, it is wise to first examine our intentions and get an understanding.

Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; Love her, and she will keep you. Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” - Proverbs 4:5-9 (KJV)

If it is determined that you may not have the right intentions toward that person, then take a deep breath, remind yourself of God's love for you and them (1John 4:15), repent, then bless that person and walk away. However, if you believe correction is necessary, and you are genuinely led to (and in some cases qualified to do so), then by all means warn and/or teach that person with God's truth and wisdom, in Love:

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: - Colossians 1:27-28 (KJV)

Now, when we warn or teach someone, the truth may be a little difficult for them to accept, initially. However, it is not Love when we have deeply hurt that person or if our actions have caused them to stumble. In fact, Jesus gave us a warning for anyone that causes a believer in Him to stumble:

And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. - Mark 9:42 (KJV)

I don't believe Jesus was trying to scare us with this; but, He was definitely trying to make sure that we understand the seriousness of it—just how important it is to apply His grace, forgive others, and to allow love to put a covering on their sins (1 Peter 4:8) until they have been delivered. The Holy Spirit will teach us how to do this if we are willing to learn.

Finally, Romans 14:10 tells us that we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. The Bible also reminds us that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). However, the truth also is, without love, we can't say we know God (1 John 4:7-9). For God is Love, and so it is Love that allows us to glorify Him in the world. His Word tells us in 1John 4:18 that "perfect love casteth out fear." Therefore, when we abide ourselves in His Love, His Spirit, His wisdom and His Grace will teach us how to walk in Love with others (as His Son, the Word made flesh, our Savior Jesus Christ, did).

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. - John 3:17 (KJV)

Saturday Mornings

Saturday mornings are just perfect for some me-time. Take a walk, read, enjoy your favorite breakfast... YOU deserve it!

Mindfully Seeking is on Kindle

Mindfully Seeking is book of poetry about the truth in love. Get it now on Kindle. https://amzn.to/4hpSDgy

Do you have a Kindle Reader? Get one today on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4g8hHYo

Is there a link between spirituality and the brain?

Is there a link between spirituality and the brain? What allows one to have spiritual experiences?

In 1997, researchers James Ashbrook and Carol Rausch Albright broke new ground in the relationship between spirituality and science. In this study, they identified a 'God spot': an area of the brain linked to religious or spiritual experiences. According to Ashbrook and Albright, this 'God spot' is at the epicenter of the brain. It determines one's spirituality and connection to a higher power or omnipotent creator. However, a more recent study in the International Journal of the Psychology of Religion, led by George (Brick) Johnstone, drew another conclusion.

Details of Johnstone and His Colleagues' Study

As determined by Johnstone, a professor of health psychology at the University of Missouri, spirituality does not link to just one area of the brain.

Johnstone and his team studied 20 people with traumatic brain injuries affecting the right parietal lobe of the brain. This area is located a few inches above the right ear. According to Johnstone, the right hemisphere relates to perception and the definition of 'self.' This side is more visual and processes randomly, holistically and intuitively. The left side of the brain, however, processes in a sequential and logical order. It corresponds with one's relationship to others.

The study determined that people with traumatic injury to the right lobe were more connected spiritually. Additionally, these individuals were more open to new activities like music and art.

Their research suggests that spiritual experiences signify “a decreased focus on the self.” Therefore, Johnstone's conclusion is that "a natural consequence of turning down the volume on the Me-Definer" in the brain's right lobe, is selflessness.

Some spiritual leaders agree with Johnstone's findings. In fact, there are individuals in the Christian community that acknowledge the connection between spirituality and selflessness. Perhaps because the Bible asserts that the goal of Christians is to embody the sacrificial love which Jesus Christ exemplified. However, some do disagree with the suggestions from these findings. They are unconvinced that a predisposed belief in God is related to a unique framework of the brain.

Is there a link between spirituality and the brain?

Johnstone's research focused on individuals with trauma to the brain. However, previous studies of Buddhist meditators and Franciscan nuns with normal brain function concluded that people can also learn to quiet the 'Me' definer. In essence, they can minimize the functioning of the right side of their brains (to increase their spiritual experience). This is with regular religious practices, like meditation and prayer.

"Love, and even charity work, can also soften the boundaries of 'Me,' " says Johnstone.

Johnstone's study, “Right parietal lobe ‘selflessness’ as the neuropsychological basis of spiritual transcendence,” is published in the International Journal of the Psychology of Religion.

Happy Sunday

God is good. Enjoy!

p.s. If this song doesn't at-least produce a shoulder move, then I guess we just don't vibe :-) Remember, never stop dancing, loving and seeking the truth. ♥

Nurturing Creativity

"Responsibility is what awaits outside the Eden of Creativity."

- Nadine Gordimer

I always had this knowing that I could draw. For some reason, I knew, like I knew, like I knew, way before that day I actually sat down for the first time to put that pencil to the paper. I can honestly say that it was also no shock to me when I was able to actually look at my work for the very first time, several years later.

Basically, to make a long story short, I had to learn to let go of my own agenda, in order to tap into my true Christ-rooted self. Not just as an artist or a writer, but, more importantly, to embark on the transformational process that leads to a realization of the new self. In fact, now I truly understand that the Lord wanted me to be still enough to not only know what has been conceptualized as truth, but to also walk in it.

So, needless to say, God is the author of creativity. We are the mere vessels that bring forth His will and purpose. And I know I am most certainly not alone in this gracious experience, filled with growing pains...this journey of creativity.

Now, if somehow you have never taken much time to acknowledge the vision you have been given; and find yourself existing with an untapped knowing about yourself...whatever it is, I dare you to surrender, be still and in the words of Nike, “just do it!” Because I can tell you, it is not going anywhere. It is still there, right where it has always been, just sitting inside of you...waiting...waiting for you to give Him the glory He so greatly deserves.

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. - Ephesians 2:10 (KJV)

Be well and God Bless,

Kaysha Sahai Reid

Did Mammy Know Her Worth?

“It is difficult to make a man miserable while he feels worthy of himself and claims kindred to the great God who made him.”
― Abraham Lincoln

Mammy is a woman to which we are all familiar. Did she have a deep and pure awareness of her self-worth? Self-worth is defined as "the opinion you have about yourself and the value you place on yourself."

And she is not just a character. To some, she is quite familiar - whether in passing, in our own families/households or even by a similarity we often sense within ourselves.

Literature and film have depicted this woman for years - "an idealized figure of a caregiver: amiable, loyal, maternal, non-threatening, obedient, and submissive." Sometimes she was even characterized as sassy. But the strength of this character, despite her native origin, I believe, transcends race...because the message defies any physical interpretation.

In fact, throughout the years, there has been so much controversy surrounding "Mammy." Many resent her appearance, seemingly subservient behavior and just who she was - a maid. Some have even questioned where her loyalty really lied. But, if we are willing to look beyond her obvious features, behavior or even her occupation; it is there that we will encounter her significance.

First of all, this woman was most times religious. She kept the name of "Jesus" in our consciousness, when we either hadn't yet received His salvation or were just too lazy to seek Him for ourselves. And whenever we arrived at her doorstep, clearly bruised by the realities of the world, she fed our hearts, souls and bodies with the purest love she knew.

Most of all, Mammy was our physical witness of a woman, who regardless of what was going on around her or how she was being perceived, she managed to have a smile on her face. A woman whose knowing and identity came from a place that no human being could touch...a secret place where only she and her God reside.

About Who?

Welcome! My name is Kaysha Sahai Reid. I encourage individuals through the basics of meditation and stillness to seek greater work-life balance and well-being.

I usually don't like sharing about myself. And yet, there are people who would probably beg to differ :-)

Okay, so I am a Canadian-born, West Indian bred, child of God. My parents are Jamaican, and needless to say, I have spent a lot of my life on that beautiful Caribbean island. Though, as it stands today, I have lived more years of my life here in the United States than anywhere else. And so for many colorful and growing pain experiences, this is genuinely where I call home.

I currently live in Central Florida, where it is sunny and somehow really peaceful. I am pretty much a homebody, who does like the occasional concerts and travel, and despite specific goals, I generally wouldn't change anything about it. Much the serious and conscientious worker, I also enjoy cooking for the people I love, a good laugh (King of Queens' Author Spooner's rants are just comedic genius.), a good movie, and reading. Still, crosswords and writing are my happy place.

Yet, it wasn't always that way... I have been that young woman who was consistently searching outside of herself. Only to one day discover that what I needed was already within reach. I understand this so much now, that I can even be a little stubborn at times (I'll admit it). And of course, there is just something that happens after you turn 40! Somehow those little things you gave a lot of energy to, just don't matter any more... I can truly say that joy and peace are no longer distant strangers.

So, what is this blog about, you say? Well, Stillness and Me-Time is a scrapbook. But, mostly it is a space of possibilities—complete with proper relaxation and tools that can be integrated into one’s me-time and quiet study. Yet this is with the goal of maintaining greater work-life balance and well-being.

I hope you will find something here that is useful. Thank you so much for stopping by!

Be well and God Bless,

Kaysha Sahai Reid

"How Great Thou Art"

This is one of my favorite hymns. As a child, I often woke up to my grandmother singing this in the early morning; this along with the smell of fried dumplings or whatever she was cooking up for us :-). To be honest, she was my first exposure to Christ and the Holy Spirit. Her peace was infectious.

Here is (in my opinion) one of the most powerful renditions below:

Mindfully Seeking

She sets out to find,

and falls on an unrelated cause within.

Observing gems in her own unchartered spaces,

now she gazes not on the faces, just our heavenly chases.

She finds order.

Taking the path she is renewed and strengthened.

Never tired,

she can run and be quiet,

while patiently learning its stay.

Studying to mature in its grace, mercy and forgiving,

hopeful, not elevated, is this seat of now living.

From the Upcoming Book, "Mindfully Seeking."

Available soon.

Check-out some of my other publications:

https://www.kaysahaidesigns.com/publications/

"She's Got Her Ticket" by Tracy Chapman

I used to study dance and perform with a dance group for several years back in the day. It's funny, but we have done numerous performances (and plays), and if you ask me what were all the songs or routines I wouldn't really be able to tell you; yet, that's with the exception of one. All were phenomenally choreographed by our instructor, but our most memorable performance for me was to the song "She's Got Her Ticket" by Tracy Chapman. I still get goose bumps whenever I hear this song, and I heard it just now.

Anyway, what I have to say is this: Choose to embrace your God given freedom to just BE. This is something I have learned to embrace over the past few years, and I can't tell you how necessary this to one's well-being. This just carries more reward than trying to live by other's expectations.

The Call is Worthwhile

There's a plumber that has been to my home about three times within the past three years. The last time was a little before the pandemic hit and the first time he came I was at the time in a deep season of prayer. That day, he came to fix the sprinklers, but I never could have anticipated the shift.

He is a very serious man of very little words. I am assuming he is in his sixties. At first his demeanor though me off a bit, until I realized this enormous sense of peace coming from him. As he walked around and worked on the sprinkler, I was thinking to myself, this man knows Jesus. Each time, he came to explain something to me, he got a little friendlier and friendlier, but still very serious... and can I mention his dry humor? That man makes me laugh... What was also clear to me was that this is something he most likely does on every job. Yet yesterday in my weekly online sermon, that it all came together for me. the topic was peace and the Pastor mentioned that Jesus told his disciples to So its clear that not only was he a skilled plumber and business man, but his jobs were also his ministry. He knew his worth.

A lot of times when we speak of knowing ones' worth, we think of the monetary value or notoriety associated with our skills and gifts, However, there is another value that we must honor, and that is our day-to-day walk. God has definitely shown me this over the years. For instance, when I wrote my first book, I sent it to a few people and friends and they gave their feedback. Overall, the response was good. I remember also after it was posted on Amazon, most of my responses would come by email, especially after I did one of those free book offer days. Women from all over would write and tell me how much they relate to my story. At first, I would thank them and engage in a little exchange and then kindly ask if they would leave a review for the book on the page. I did it about three times and then one day I felt something within me saying, "Stop that! That book was not given to you for your own recognition, it was given to you to help other people." And man, did I learn, because I am not going to lie to you, my head started to swell a bit and I did loose sight of why the book was written. God showed me a level of humility to which I am so grateful for today. Now this is not say that people who have written books and have recognition, especially Christian authors, are not humble. For I am sure many have paid their dues and earned God's trust to carry out His mission. However, not everybody has a call to be highly recognizable. It doesn't mean that one person is better than the other, but your call is your call and we have to be grateful for it regardless.

Yet, I know there are definitely times when people don't operate quite at the level where God wants them to be due to fear, etc... but we are living in a time when we think that people are not doing anything worthwhile unless they are appearing a certain way. And I know a lot of times these people don't necessarily mean any harm. I've learned that sometimes we tend to put a pressure on others that we would put on ourselves, which I get. I definitely have had my fair share of judging others based on my own vantage point.

However, the only appearance we need to concern ourselves with is God's unique path for us. What you need to be assessing every now and then is whether there is truly progress every time you place one foot in front of the other, because the goal is to keep pressing forward. Also, never forget that our actual journey of developing a personal relationship with God is very priceless— for that is where you will discover your true value. In fact, there are so many ways to help people if that is where your heart is... people do it everyday. I have learned that just your very presence and every time you speak to someone is an opportunity to accept the call.