Editorial February 27, 1915 Issue

Living the Truth

Archibald McLellan

In "No and Yes" (p. 1) Mrs. Eddy writes: "To kindle in all minds a common sentiment of regard for the spiritual idea emanating from the infinite, is a most needful work; but this must be done gradually, for Truth is as 'the still, small voice,' which comes to our recognition only as our natures are changed by its silent influence." On page 2 of the same book we find the further caution: "The honest student of Christian Science is modest in his claims and conscientious in duty, waiting and working to mature what he has been taught."

From these words we may well understand that there is not only a time and a place which are best suited for the presentation of Christian Science to our friends, but also that the best preliminary to this presentation is to let our lives attest the sincerity of our profession. This does not mean that we should not be ready at all times and under all circumstances to present Christian Science to those who desire it, but it does mean that the forcing of this teaching upon those who are not ready to receive it, is not a kindness to such persons, nor can it be of advantage to our cause. It is recorded of the Master that in "his own country, he taught them in their synagogue ... And they were offended in him. ... And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief." This goes to prove that even the great Teacher found prejudiced or unwilling auditors unfruitful ground for the sowing of the seed of Truth.

It would be difficult to estimate the number who have been turned away altogether from the consideration of Christian Science, or whose serious consideration of it has been delayed by reason of the overpersistence of friends whose enthusiasm exceeded their good judgment. Many of us may recall how in our early days as Christian Scientists we supposed that nothing more was necessary than that we should tell our friends about Christian Science, and they would gladly acclaim it as we had done. Many rebuffs and disappointments, however, taught us that something more than mere words was required to overcome the subtle beliefs of those who were unready for this spiritual truth, and that the most convincing and effective testimony that could be offered was where the daily living of Christian Scientists had attested—shown forth—the reason for the faith that was in them.

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