Article July 8, 1916 Issue

Our Gratitude

WILLIAM H. HOWARD

In reading or listening to Christian Science testimonies one readily concludes that gratitude is the dominant motive which prompts them. It is therefore pertinent to inquire, What is gratitude? Metaphysically considered it may be said to be one of the fairest flowers blooming in the garden of Soul, and nourished by the affections it matures and unfolds as a rose in the atmosphere of Love, and is known by its fragrance of rejoicing.

If this is an acceptable definition of gratitude as a sense of obligation for good received, it cannot be expressed or measured in finite terms. As an experience of the heart it is incapable of complete outward manifestation. Its magnitude is in Mind; its domain is in thought; its activity is found in good works. One's sense of gratitude enlarges with each succeeding experience, and ever keeps pace beyond the power of words to portray or deeds to betoken. Thus it is of common occurrence at our testimony meetings to hear Christian Scientists remark that words can but feebly convey their sense of gratitude for blessings that have come to them. To the Christian Scientist gratitude is a religious sentiment born of a desire to bear glad tidings to others. It is the first step toward the fulfilment of that Scriptural injunction, "Freely ye have received, freely give."

In expressing gratitude to our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, for benefits received through Christian Science, we are sometimes misunderstood. This is usually due to the supposition that we regard her as the source of the good which comes to us in our daily experience, whereas we acknowledge God as the only source of all good. Her interpretation of the Scriptures has revealed to human consciousness the availability of that good and that divine protection which we learn in Christian Science have always been just at hand. So Christian Scientists recognize her not as the source but as the channel, for through her unselfish and unceasing devotion to the Father's business humanity is enjoying boundless blessings today.

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