Article December 24, 1910 Issue

DISCRETION

WALTER SHAW.

There is an old saying that "charity begins at home," which in its common interpretation may be taken to mean that we should give what we have to spare to the needy ones connected with the family before seeking to bestow our gifts upon strangers. The phrase also implies a mild rebuke to ostentatious almsgiving, by placing outsiders (through love of applause) before those who have a prior right to claim our sympathy and consideration. The application of the proverb could be extended to many conditions and circumstances to which there is now no occasion to refer. Its bearing upon Christian Science may be seen in the human desire to teach anybody and everybody our first smatterings upon this vast subject. It is rightly natural to wish to share the blessings we have experienced with others, but it is also essential to consider whether we are ready to impart its truths prudently, or able to discriminate as to those who are prepared to receive it.

If "charity begins at home," should we not at first seek to enrich our own consciousness and ensure a clear and firm grasp of Christian Science teaching, so that we may spontaneously radiate the glorious light it has brought to us? Most students find there is much home work to be done in order to entrench themselves against the assaults of old beliefs, before they are equipped to instruct others. Mrs. Eddy writes (Science and Health, p. 373), "Healing is easier than teaching, if the teaching is faithfully done." Yet how many young students essay to teach Christian Science to friends and acquaintances before they have actually had much practical experience in the application of the healing power of Truth. In "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 355) we read, "Less teaching and good healing is today the acme of 'well done;' " and by following carefully our Leader's wise instructions we shall avoid much painful disappointment which may otherwise result from the exuberance of an inexperienced zeal.

The essential point for each worker is to get a true and positive hold of the fundamental teachings of Christian Science, and this can only be done through much patient, earnest study of our text-book and Mrs. Eddy's other writings. Our periodicals also furnish important help in study which no one can afford to neglect. A great responsibility rests upon those who undertake to explain Christian Science to enquirers. So much depends upon first impressions, that we should fervently pray to be divinely guided on every occasion that we are called upon to voice this subject to outsiders. It is often wiser to refer people to Science and Health and say where the book can be obtained on loan, or to send them Christian Science periodicals, rather than to attempt to argue the various points that present difficulties to beginners.

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DISCRETION

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