Article March 17, 2014 Issue

Overcoming differences

Rick Dearborn

There appears to be a great deal of division of thought in the world today. Good, thinking people firmly take sides on issues, frequently in direct opposition to other good, thinking people. We see “lines in the sand” being drawn. Differences in conservative and liberal points of view, though centuries old, are more strongly defended than before. Many people are preoccupied with factions and extremes. Criticizing the “other side” fuels opposition. Often spiritually minded individuals seek answers through their religious faith. But sometimes even faith can be used to justify division.

What I have learned through my study of Christian Science is the importance of moving even beyond faith, to understanding. In most sciences, understanding is gained through proof, often through experimentation. In that step, individuals apply what they believe to be true to a trial experience. If the trial is successful, it leads to understanding.

But how do we advance to spiritual understanding? When our faith is challenged by human circumstances, it is through prayerful alignment of our thought with God that we gain new insights into spiritual reality. These moments of inspiration give us glimpses of the harmonious relationship between God and His perfect spiritual idea, man. Such glimpses help us see through the challenges we face, and lead to their resolution.