Article May 13, 1911 Issue

CROSSROADS

W.D. MC CRACKAN, M.A.

As students of Christian Science travel along the road from sense to Soul, they are constantly coming upon crossroads. The sign-posts may not be very clear. Sometimes their inscriptions are quite illegible. Sometimes mischievous persons have purposely defaced them or twisted them about. Sometimes the choice is complicated because several roads radiate from the same point. The traveler may stop in bewilderment, feeling the importance of choosing the right way, and dreading the possibility of being led astray. At such times the student will find it particularly necessary to guard against fear, as this tends to produce confusion and to prevent him from hearing the "still small voice" which declares, "This is the way, walk ye in it." As soon as the mesmeric suggestions of fear are quieted, the traveler will find the sign-posts less perplexing, and under divine guidance can more readily choose the right direction. In "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 347) Mrs. Eddy tells how we may gain divine guidance, whatever the seeming difficulties which present themselves, and with this guidance she says that the path "may be smooth, or it may be rugged; but it is always straight and narrow; and if it be up-hill all the way, the ascent is easy and the summit can be gained."

But suppose one is inexperienced in finding his way, is perhaps fatigued by a long day's journey, and yet feels that his very existence depends upon his choice of the right way at this particular time. Will not his position be dangerous? No, the pilgrim on the upward way need never be discouraged if his motive is right, even though experienced travelers on earthly journeys make mistakes under the stress of blinding storm or mental distress or optical illusion. More important, however, than the choice of the right road at any particular juncture, is the motive which impels the traveler. Let him still his fears and look to his motive. If the latter is right, then the end of his journey will be assured. He may mistake the direction many times, at many confusing crossroads; but if his purpose is good, he will quickly recognize his mistake, retrace his steps, and again take the right road.

It is comforting to recognize that he whose motive is right is always safe. He may suffer for his ignorance, but the correction of his mistakes acts as a valuable lesson. He is never deceived for any length of time. He travels securely through the hostile country of material sense, growing stronger and sturdier in spiritual understanding, keener in spiritual perception, protected by that Love which clarifies his vision, settles all doubts, and casts out all fear. Mrs. Eddy writes: "Love inspires, illumines, designates, and leads the way. Right motives give pinions to thought, and strength and freedom to speech and action" (Science and Health, p. 454). Right motives will cause every road to bring the traveler in the end to the shelter of the Almighty, and will make every crossroad a welcome test of his growth in grace.

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