Article March 21, 1901 Issue

"Be Courteous"

BY ELIZA P. T. HOUK.

In the first Epistle general of Peter "an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers [those "chosen" of God, who had been dispersed by persecution] scattered throughout Pontus," etc., this admonition occurs, third chapter, eighth verse: "Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous."

Webster defines courtesy as "an act of kindness or favor performed with politeness." Are we, as Christian Scientists, careful at all times and under all circumstances, to obey this injunction? Our Leader says we can obey the Scriptures in every instance. She, as does our Master, teaches us that Love is the fulfilling of the law.

But love to be love must have expression. The Apostle of Love writes, "Whosoever may be in possession of the livelihood of the world [any of the good things of this world?], and may be viewing his brother having need, and may shut up his tender-affections from him, how is the love of God abiding in him? Dear children, let us not be loving in word, nor yet with the tongue, but in work and truth. And herein we shall get to know that of the truth, we are" (Rotherham's Translation).

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

"Be Courteous"

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access