Article September 12, 1914 Issue

Silent Service

FRANK L. ROBINSON

Some who have come into Christian Science, find that their family and near friends are not interested in this great truth, and they are wont to say that they have more or less difficulty in keeping up the daily reading and study of the LessonSermon. Other members of the home circle object to their withdrawal for this purpose even for a half hour, since they do not understand that this reading or study cannot be done so effectively or satisfactorily in the family circle. The Christian Scientist, however, well understands why his studies under such circumstances are not so fruitful of good results as when properly done alone, where the mental application is not disturbed from time to time by diverting remarks or the moving about the room of members of the family, though they may seek to avoid all unnecessary disturbance.

When we know that it is through the so-called physical senses — sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell — that we cognize our physical surroundings : when we remember that it is through these faculties that we receive those impressions which go to make up mortal mind, then we understand why we should shut out error, and especially in the daily study hour, while seeking to get a clearer grasp of the spiritual verities. However intent one may be upon gathering the utmost spiritual help from the reading and study which are such important factors in the daily experience of Christian Scientists, he soon learns that to get the best results he must close the door to the physical senses, so far as possible, and to that extent realize God's presence. Christian Science reading-rooms are ideal in view of their quiet atmosphere, and if there are moments of forgetfulness on the part of those coming to these places, and conversation ensues, all that is necessary to insure quiet is a gentle reminder to that effect from the attendant.

Spiritual growth makes it more and more possible for one to enter into the closet and shut the door, no matter where he may be or what his surroundings. Until that higher plane is reached, however, one should be considerate of circumstances and do all he can to muffle or silence the mortal senses ; otherwise the beginner in Christian Science will be tempted with discouragement. A saving thought is that any seeming disturbance will vanish in a little time if we but look to divine wisdom for guidance. Ultimately the false sense of separation which other members of the family circle entertain during the study hour will fade away, and the time of its going will be hastened in proportion to our growing understanding. It would be well to remember that wisdom is sometimes as much in evidence when manifested by silence as by the spoken word. Mrs. Eddy reminds us (Science and Health, p. 89) that "Spirit, God, is heard when the senses are silent," and this surely means more to us than can aught else, for it implies unerring guidance.

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