Article February 26, 1916 Issue

Working Together

FLORENCE B. HAMILTON

Christian Scientists who hold steadfastly to absolute Truth should never become confused when working together, although it may take longer for groups of people to work out an ideal than it does for individuals. Because of this there come to one in an organization endless opportunities for advance in selflessness, charity, patience, and love. The great need in working together harmoniously is to know what the next orderly step may be in our journey toward perfection,—toward the realization that the absolute exists, that this absolute is God and His creation, perfect and eternal, and that it is the truth which brings us together. On this basis there is no uncertainty, no arguing, no criticism.

The difference of opinion sometimes comes in knowing what is our next step as a church, a Sunday school, or a committee, the step that will bring us nearer to the spiritual reality which is our birthright, and even well meaning persons occasionally are misguided at this point. The vision may become clouded when one is working with others, and this shows the need of being awake to the many methods of mortal mind in order that none may be deceived.

The writer has had occasion to ask herself lately, What is it that clouds our vision? and "in the quiet sanctuary of earnest longings" (Science and Health, p. 15) much help has been received. To begin with, we must be honestly and willingly ready to admit our need of guidance. We must be willing to admit that no matter how sincere our motives, we may be mistaken in our view-point or action. These admissions are purifying. They clear the atmosphere and make us more ready for progress. As we have had to learn in our individual work to trust spiritual methods if we would enjoy the fruits of Christian healing, so we must learn to trust spiritual methods in church work, remembering always that outward organization is but a means to an end. If we think it is our duty to steady the ark, we need not wonder if we hinder the church we love in our overanxiety to help it along, and what might be uninterrupted progress becomes through personal opinion a troublesome pathway.

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