Article March 8, 1941 Issue

Earth's Busy Season

PETER V. ROSS

NEVER was there more to be done in the world than at the present moment. If you and I had consciously planned a visit to this planet, we could scarcely have reached it in a busier season. In years gone by, mankind in the main devoted themselves to constructive enterprises, with the result that in these early years of the twentieth century civilization has attained unprecedented heights. Today the imperative demand is to preserve what thus far has been gained, because relentless war is now being waged on democracy and Christianity. There is a place for every individual in the defense program. Indeed, there is urgent need for his active participation. No person should be at a loss to know the need for his work, or what his work is.

There can be no such thing as neutrality at a time when those institutions which express righteousness and therefore make life worth living are thrown in jeopardy. We are neither neutral nor tolerant when an epidemic of disease breaks out. We take sides quickly and unflinchingly. So when tyranny assails the established rights and immunities of humanity, the Christian Scientist at once rises in resolute opposition. It is a mistake to suppose that reading the Bible and "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy breeds softness and irresolution. Such study has a mellowing effect on the individual; hence its surpassing virtue. But it does not detract from his courage and prowess.

You may have wondered, especially in times of stress, what upholds you. Moses gave the answer in his assurance to Asher: "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms." Here we have the poetic way of announcing that underneath lies divine Principle, God, sustaining, directing, and vitalizing righteous men and nations. Assuredly Principle governs the world with its affairs and peoples, making of none effect the unprincipled forces of the day bent on undermining the cultural and ethical achievement of the ages.

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