Article April 22, 1922 Issue

The Perfect Gift

JESSIE G. CALDWELL

In order to ascertain the truth concerning any erroneous condition, it is essential that the evidence before the material sense be exactly reversed. Spirit is the direct opposite of matter; therefore error, the evidence of matter or material belief, claims to reverse the true state of being. Necesarily, the creation of Spirit is entirely spiritual. The manifestation of Spirit is wholly good, with no element of evil. The nearer we arrive at this understanding the more complete and desirable will be our demonstrations of good.

Mrs. Eddy says in "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 355): "Less teaching and good healing is to-day the acme of 'well done:' a healing that is not guesswork,—chronic recovery ebbing and flowing,—but instantaneous cure. This absolute demonstration of Science must be revived." In the epistle of James, first chapter, we read, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." We may understand this to mean that the good gift which cometh from the Father is also complete, else it could not be perfect; then, an incomplete demonstration could hardly be considered the "perfect gift," when viewed in the light of divine Science.

A Christian Scientist made this statement to one seeking help to meet a human need: The Father has provided everythign for His children, and there is no reason why we should be willing to accept half a blessing, when we may just as well have a whole one. Jesus said, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." The promises of God are rich in blessings to all those who are obedient to the demands of divine Principle, to those who first seek to understand, then hasten to obey.

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