Article June 10, 1967 Issue

"Before they call, I will answer"

ROSE L. KEMPTHORNE

Many a devout Christian has despairingly cried, "Why are not my prayers answered?" Jesus explained the modus of answered prayer in his assurance to his followers, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."^{John 8:31, 32;} And at the tomb of Lazarus the Master gave thanks to the Father for hearing his prayer, even before there was any sign of Lazarus' restoration.

Jesus knew that the real man is the image and likeness of God, the loved of Love; that he is forever free from all the ignorant beliefs and untoward experiences of a supposititious material, mortal existence. Jesus' spiritual conviction needed no human petition or supplication. His positive knowing was potent prayer, and this prayer was answered.

In the Way-shower's great human trial in the Garden of Gethsemane the night before the crucifixion, he completely renounced personal self and human will. He prayed, "Not my will, but thine, be done."^{Luke 22:42 ;} His selfless love for God and man brought the most momentous, far-reaching answer to prayer that the world has ever known. Willingly bearing the cross, he could wear the crown of eternal Life as an example for all mankind.