Article July 28, 1917 Issue

Gratitude

ELIZABETH DUMBRILLE

There is perhaps no virtue so undeveloped in the human race as gratitude; yet we find today an ever awakening impulse on the part of those who are being roused from the apathy of mortal sense and its dreams, to a deeper, more conscientious expression of gratitude to our heavenly Father. This is called forth by the gift to mankind of a plain and practicable understanding of divine law as applied to every ill "that flesh is heir to," through the teaching of Christian Science as revealed to the present age in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy.

From the Latin gratus, meaning "thankful," comes our beautiful English word gratitude. Its very formation and appearance when written bears with it a sweetness and bigness which causes us to search for it among the beautiful blossoms of the tree of life, to see how much of this precious fruit can be gathered and laid upon the altar of divine Love. Christian Scientists as a people are learning to be grateful. Each day finds the earnest, honest effort expressed in word and deed, bringing with it the peace "which passeth all understanding" and that much looked for rest for the children of God.

In the seventeenth chapter of Luke we read that as Jesus was passing through Samaria and Galilee on his way to Jerusalem, in one of the villages along the way he was met by ten men, all lepers, who had undoubtedly heard of the wonderful works of the Nazarene and in their great extremity had longed for his coming. How they must have watched, vying with each other in their joyful expectation of being freed from their bitter bondage. The text says that they "stood afar off," and cried aloud, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." How tenderly and compassionately he listened, and how quickly he responded! The perfect man, the free, pure, glorious idea of the omnipotent One, was all he could behold. Following their instant obedience to his command, "Go show yourselves unto the priests," while yet on the way they were cleansed.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Proofs of Healing
July 28, 1917
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit