Editorial May 8, 1909 Issue

CONSIDERATION FOR OTHERS

Archibald Mclellan

Among the incidents of "going to church," the meeting of our friends is perhaps one of the pleasantest, and a quiet interchange of greetings with those who like ourselves have much for which to render thanks to God, is a privilege to which no reasonable person could object. In too many cases, however, these greetings are supplemented by what takes on the complexion of a very worldly conversation, which disturbs the thought and breaks in upon the peace and quietness of all within earshot. To those who have come to church in a purely devotional frame of mind, and who are trying to preface the service by a few minutes of silent preparation which will enable them to understand more clearly the Lesson-Sermon and to assimilate the teachings of the Scriptures which it sets forth, it is somewhat trying to have to listen to a conversation which, although entirely suitable for some other place and some other occasion, is here quite out of keeping.

To people of an instinctive care for the rights of others, and who in return expect consideration for their own feelings and rights, this distracting hum of conversation seems an uncalled for and wholly unnecessary intrusion upon their thought. There is no intention on their part to interfere with the joyful greeting of friends, nor do they expect that the long countenances associated by so many with religious affairs shall be in evidence, but they do ask that each one be as thoughtful for the comfort of others as they should be, and in this it would seem their position is well taken.

Mrs. Eddy says in Science and Health (p. 241), "The substance of all devotion is the reflection and demonstration of divine Love, healing sickness and destroying sin." If we are mindful of the purpose for which the Church of Christ, Scientist, was instituted, viz., "to commemorate the word and works of our Master" (Manual. p. 17), we shall ever strive to show that thoughtful consideration for others which marked the Master's daily walk and conversation.

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THE HOLY CITY
May 8, 1909
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