Article November 10, 1906 Issue

WATCHFULNESS

ADA B. HOSTETLER

To comprehend fully the significance of this word, we must close the door upon the world and enter the inner consciousness where is found sweet communion with Soul. Deep in the secret sanctuary of fervent desire to be more Christlike, there we may watch with the Master,—watch and pray that the same Mind may be in us that was also in Christ Jesus. Does it sometimes happen, however, that the hour is not half spent before the door of the sanctuary swings ajar and the watcher, becoming weary of his holy vigil, forgets his duty and wanders into the realm of mortal illusion? Can we not watch one hour.—one brief hour from the unreal pleasures of earth to listen to the voice of him who said, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world"?

We are apt to forget that it is only he who digs deep into the hidden recesses of the earth that brings to light the beautiful gems which lie hidden there; only he who dives far from the sight of mortal eyes into the deep and quiet seas of thought that finds the precious pearl.

Heavy-hearted and disappointed by the faithlessness of his disciples, the blessed Master kept his lonely vigil, and received that unspeakable peace which passeth the understanding of them who grow weary in watching. "Could ye not watch with me one hour?" The words come down through the centuries, and are being spoken to-day to each of us as truly as to the three who slept in Gethsemane. Are we sleeping to-day? Are we turning deaf ears and blind eyes to the things of Spirit revealed by Christian Science? Are we chasing the phantasmagoria of false pleasures along the winding labyrinths of sense perception? Can we not watch one hour for the glorious dawn of Truth?

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