Article March 24, 1917 Issue

Purifying Experience

CORA F. COLLISON

In scanning the history of mankind as revealed in the Bible, we find that many of its narratives tell of the lives of those who have passed through fiery trials and risen to higher planes of thought, and who through these experiences have become shining lights to all generations. In speaking of those "of whom the world was not worthy" Paul says, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us."

Frequently through trials and suffering the gold of human character is separated from the dross; then the true man, the man created in God's image and likeness, is brought to light. On page 278 of "Miscellaneous Writings" Mrs. Eddy says, "Those only who are tried in the furnace reflect the image of their Father." So, when passing through trying ordeals we may follow the example of Moses as he approached the burning bush, and take off our shoes,—lay aside material beliefs of life and intelligence as resident in matter,—and step reverently, for the ground upon which we tread is holy.

It was through bitter experience that Moses learned meekness and humility. The pride of power and of human intellect had to be overcome before, chastened and purified, he beheld the light of Truth revealing the way of salvation. Thus he became the great leader of his people, and it was after he ascended the mount which burned,—a further overcoming of materiality,—that his ears were attuned to hear again the voice of Truth. This revelation brought forth the ten commandments, upon which all law and gospel were founded. How often it is seen that not until we are tested and tried to the utmost do we rise above the material sense of live and hear the "still small voice" of Truth.

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