Article September 18, 1920 Issue

"Go forward"

JOHN M. DEAN

We are told in Exodus that when the hosts of Israel were pressed in the rear by the armies of Pharaoh, while their further progress was barred by the Red Sea, the voice of God told Moses to "speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward." In spite of the seemingly overwhelming obstacles before them this command was obeyed, with the result that the waters were parted, the Israelites passed over on dry ground, and the pursuing Egyptians were overcome because of their eager and vindictive desire to persecute good. This experience should have been a sufficient lesson to those who were so wonderfully preserved, but almost immediately we find them forgetful of their obligations to God and murmuring for the fleshpots of Egypt. Even after manna from heaven furnished for their daily needs, they still sighed for the old days of sensual gratification and bondage to the things of the flesh.

In the light of metaphysical interpretation, this narrative furnishes a vital lesson to all who are ready to understand it. It emphasizes the truism that the forward look is essential to true progress. Students of Christian Science have turned their backs on the shadowy land of Egypt (materialism), and, as in the case of Lot and his family who escaped the destruction of Sodom, the command is, "Look not behind thee." Mrs. Eddy says in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 324), "Gladness to leave the false landmarks and joy to see them disappear,—this disposition helps to precipitate the ultimate harmony." Jesus drove home this lesson in the three words, "Remember Lot's wife," and at another time he said, "No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God."

Sighing for or brooding over the past is as reprehensible as dreading the future. Past days should be regarded with neither regret nor longing. All the good they held is still with us, for good is immortal. The "good old days" often seem good only from the far-off perspective of the present, and, until better instructed, those who are thus deceived by distance are apt in future days to speak of the present in the same endearing terms. It is legitimate to profit by past experiences, but to dwell in the past not only distorts one's views of the present but invites dire apprehension of the future. If it were really possible for the best part of a man's life to be behind him, there could then be no possible incentive to endeavor. To do the good at hand is all that is demanded of us, and what men call the future must be cognized only as it unfolds in the present.

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