Article May 2, 1908 Issue

PRAYER IN DAILY LIFE

LOUISE SMITH GLANVILLE.

If there is anything in prayer, there is everything; if it is well to pray in the morning and at night, as most Christians usually do, it must be infinitely better to pray all the day, as does the true Christian Scientist. To obey the injunction, "Pray without ceasing," would be impossible if the bended knee were a necessary accompaniment of prayer, but the humble state of mind thus symbolized may be ours at all times, and the sweet consciousness of God's nearness, love, and omnipotence is an ever-present possibility. In this mental association with God lies our defense, our constant protection from all ill; and once having gained access to this holy habitation, so deeply hidden from mortal view, it becomes our highest delight to dwell there, where the worries, sins, and sickness of the world cannot reach us. There our thought remains, though mortals see us as themselves and engaged in their pursuits; we are "absent from the body" and "present with the Lord," and this is prayer.

The Christian Scientist learns that "God is incorporeal, divine, supreme, infinite Mind, Spirit, Soul, Principle, Life, Truth, Love" (Science and Health, p. 465). We deny beliefs about God which are contrary to this idea, for such beliefs shut us out from His presence, and we seek for a clear realization of the truth concerning God, and the perfect reflection of His nature, man. The result is seen so surely in improved external conditions that it is small wonder the student of Christian Science easily and naturally acquires the habit of ever dwelling with God.

Before he closes his eyes at night he is conscious of Love's omnipotent protection, and this sense is so deeply engrafted in thought that it is present as an undercurrent throughout his sleep, making unpleasant dreams almost unknown, and dispelling them in the rare intervals when they do occur. In the morning, before fairly awake, he turns to the Father, more glad to be again with Him than with the dearest earthly friend. He often wakes early purposely, that he may enjoy a longer period of sweet communion before taking up the day's work. Joyfully he gives thanks for the night's repose, for health, strength, and countless other gifts of ever-present good. He searches self, that he may cast out whatever is unlike Christ and make more room for holiness; seeks for more of that Mind which knows the truth about the problems which shall be presented throughout the day, and to reflect more and more of divine Love to all the world. This love goes out in strong currents to our blessed Leader, Mrs. Eddy, who has opened our hearts to God, and taught us how to pray as did the Master, "in spirit and in truth."

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