Article February 1, 1919 Issue

The Song of Praise

A. JACQUELINE SHAW

Sometimes Christian Scientists, looking back to that happy time when the light of Christian Science first dawned on their enraptured vision, are heard to remark that while in those days demonstration followed upon demonstration, now the healing and regenerating work seems to progress more slowly.

In the first place, is the statement true? It will readily be admitted by all that in the first gleam of light across the inky blackness of mortal mind, wonders are seen and much is accomplished. The weight of sickness which had lasted for years slips from the shoulders; pain, sorrow, loss, poverty, may all disappear in the first joyous recognition of man's true status as the child of God. Years later the recipient looking back praises God for His goodness at this wonderful time. But what of the ensuing years? Has God's arm become shortened that it cannot save? No, this cannot be true. Are we then losing our knowledge of divine Science? Surely this cannot be so. If the Bible and our textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, are being carefully studied daily we are gaining, not losing. The truth of the matter in many cases would seem to be that we are not acknowledging God as the author of all our joys sufficiently often. A man permanently healed of an organic disease cannot need or look for spectacular healing of the same disease in his own person again. Once healed, for him, is always healed, and when perfect health is restored he must go on to the further and more important healing of sin in himself. This, in fact, is what he is doing, and if he would acknowledge God's power in this direction more often, progress would be recognized more quickly.

Are we gratefully acknowledging the holding back of the sharp retort which in former days so easily passed our lips, to be repented of in the quiet hour? Are we grateful for the gentle look of love which we are enabled to bestow on the passing child so often heedlessly overlooked in other days? Does our prayer of praise ascend daily to God for increased joy in home relationship, increased ease in our work, and for the sense of freedom from anxiety on behalf of loved ones? Are we grateful for having no sense of separation when traveling or alone, away from home and all that makes home dear? Do we give thanks for a friend healed of pain through Christian Science? We know these marvels are daily coming into our experience, and how often do we refuse to acknowledge our own progress?

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