Editorial April 21, 1923 Issue

Work

Duncan Sinclair

On the first page of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mrs. Eddy has written, "Prayer, watching, and working, combined with self-immolation, are God's gracious means for accomplishing whatever has been successfully done for the Christianization and health of mankind." Our Leader had before her the aim which Christian Scientists ever have in thought, the Christianization of the world, with its inevitable consequences—health, harmony, and peace; and she states in the most concise terms possible the means by which this goal will assuredly be won, namely, through "prayer, watching, and working."

Whoever takes up the study of Christian Science soon becomes aware that he is dealing with Science. He comes in contact with many terms new to him, which he must know the meaning of, terms relating to God and to God's creation. He has entered upon the study of the Science of Mind or Spirit, and it is necessary that he should become acquainted with those spiritual terms which Mrs. Eddy employs to explain this Science to mankind. Moreover, many words that he may have been in the habit of using take on an enlarged meaning as his knowledge of the Science of being increases. For example, Christian Science gives him a vastly greater appreciation of prayer. No longer is prayer limited to entreaty or supplication; it broadens into positive affirmation of the truth, affirmation which culminates in the realization of omnipresent reality, receiving its answer in demonstration.

Similarly, the Christian Scientist learns the value of and the necessity for watchfulness. No longer is he blind to evil's suggestions. He knows the subtlety of these false beliefs; and is ever ready with his understanding of omnipresent Truth to destroy them by prayer. Work, too, takes on a far larger significance. No more is it confined to the daily grind. The student of Christian Science considers work from the standpoint of obedience to his highest understanding of God, divine Principle. Consequently, it no more assumes the form of drudgery, but is effort wisely directed by spiritual understanding toward the great end of "the Christianization and health of mankind," effort in keeping with Paul's words to the Colossians, "Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."

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