Article July 5, 1913 Issue

TIMELY REENFORCEMENT

PETER B. BIGGINS.

As we read in the Bible the history of human advancement, the long story of men and nations, we find these cheering words of Joshua to his compatriots: "One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the Lord Your God, he it is that fighteth for you." In early boyhood the writer used to read with keen interest the historical account of the battle of Bannockburn, where the Scottish army, numbering about thirty thousand and poorly equipped, save with that priceless protection, love of liberty, routed the English army, numbering about one hundred thousand, splendidly organized and richly caparisoned. On that memorable occasion a band of Scottish gillies mustered themselves into what looked from a distance like an imposing army. As they marched into view over the brow of the hill with their improvised banners gaily flying, the English army, seeing these reenforcements coming to the aid of their opponents, fled demoralized. It would be too much to say that the writer now cherishes all that he was taught in connection with this and similar events, for much has been laid aside to make room for a broader patriotism, even the recognition that since God is the Father of all, all men are brethren. It is certain, however, that one good lesson has never been forgotten, namely, that numbers do not count for much when opposed by sterling courage and a righteous cause.

This lesson has been particularly helpful to the writer since he began to grasp something of the teaching of Christian Science. Our work is carried on in the face of much hostile evidence, which would discourage us if we gave it credence; but learning, as we gradually do, the utter falsity of the testimony of the material senses, we begin to apply ourselves with real zest to the healthful task of intelligently and scientifically opposing this evidence at every possible point. At times, when the beginner's courage is inclined to wane, much inspiration and help is afforded by the arrival of our weekly periodical; but here the comparison needs to be modified. In the historical event above mentioned, the tide was turned through the ingenuity of the useful but untrained camp-followers; in our present experience, the help comes through the unselfish labors of trained thinkers, skilled in the sacred work of comforting mankind by word, pen, and silent prayer. Our Leader pointedly states in her Message for 1901, "They are not the addenda, the et cetcras, or new editions of old errors; but they are what they are, namely, students of a demonstrable Science leading the ages" (p. 21).

The articles, contributed by experienced Scientists, calm, positive, yet temperate withal, encourage the beginner, steady his faltering footsteps, and lead him into a new realm of spiritual possibilities. The neophyte's modest acknowledgment of some specific blessing derived from the better knowledge of God gained from the Bible studied in the light of Christian Science, gives a clearer view of another's problem and helps to foster brotherly love. The editorials, with words of loving counsel, keep us alert to present problems and give valuable instruction as to how to solve them. They speak clearly and uncompromisingly, without fear or favor.

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