Article June 4, 1910 Issue

SERVICE

ROSS H. MAYNARD.

Christian Scientists are often confronted with the question, "How can I serve the Cause of Christian Science?" To answer this it is imperative to know that there is no unimportant service in Christian Science, no matter how humble or simple our station in life may seem; but, in order to render true service, we must, have a clear understanding of just what the Cause is. Contemplating that, we find it to be the establishment of the kingdom of God upon earth; the demonstrable realization that God is All; the complete elimination of the material sense of selfhood.

Mrs. Eddy says (Science and Health, p. 201), "The best sermon ever preached is Truth practised and demonstrated by the destruction of sin, sickness, and death." Just so, the best service we can render the Cause is the demonstration of the positive knowing that God is All. The definition of positive as given by Webster reads: "Not admitting of any doubt; indisputable; positive truth; positive proof." The task before us as Christian Scientists is stupendous, and the opportunities to serve the Cause are consequently innumerable. Let us be very sure that our motives in service are right motives, lest the effort weigh for hindrance rather than help. Service inspired by belief without understanding, or from a cold sense of duty, does not always help the Cause. Service based upon the positive knowing that God is All, is of itself a demonstration of the truth of our Cause. We cannot choose other than work for that which we know to be the truth.

Three essentials necessary in our work are equipment, obedience, and activity. Equipment is necessary for service of any kind. Demands are made upon us constantly to prove our position as Christian Scientists, and we must be ready to stand fast, equipped for demonstration. To do this, we must obey the teachings of Christian Science. There is no true service apart from obedience, and both service and obedience demand activity. When we realize that there is no true activity except that which is caused by divine Mind, we can see that nothing can touch or injure the Cause of Christian Science; and when we are confronted by any phase of the seeming activities of mortal mind, we then prove, under fire as it were, whether or not we have been active in our preparation, whether or not we have equipped ourselves so that we can stand calm, and render service with the spirit of Love, which is always merciful and wise. Then we can so speak and act that our light will shine before men, and they will see our good works and glorify (turn unto) our Father in heaven.

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