Editorial October 4, 1924 Issue

Neither Age nor Blight

Albert F. Gilmore

Through Christian Science the facts about God and man have been presented to mankind in terms so clear and cogent that all may understand; and, moreover, through actual demonstrations, conclusive beyond argument, proof of the truthfulness of its teachings has been adduced. That Life is eternal and unchangeable; that man, spiritual and perfect, likewise is eternal and unchangeable, are fundamental teachings of Christian Science. And yet it seems that mortals traverse the entire round of human experience encompassed, in the common phrase, "between the cradle and the grave," accepting materiality as real.

In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 246) Mrs. Eddy makes an extraordinarily reassuring statement in contravention of the materialistic philosophy of life. "Life and goodness are immortal," she declares. "Let us then shape our views of existence into loveliness, freshness, and continuity, rather than into age and blight." Here is more than a hint that the great possibility lies with men of so understanding Life and existence as to avoid what mortals are prone to accept as inevitable,—namely, age and blight; that is to say, the decline and decrepitude which seem to accompany advancing years, and final dissolution. What a rare prospect Mrs. Eddy has opened before us! And how worthy of our utmost endeavor!

Upon Christian Scientists, perhaps in greater degree than upon any other group of religionists, devolves the responsibility of proving the practicability of the teachings of Christ Jesus regarding eternal Life. For, likewise, that Life is changeless and permanent is an important feature of our beloved Leader's message to mankind. To prove this statement, in some degree at least, is both our privilege and our duty. Are we awake to the necessity of such proof, and are we living up to its demands? are important questions. This demonstration in the last analysis resolves itself into two phases. Are we holding to the revealed truth about God and His perfect image, man? Are we standing guard against the admission into our mental fortress of the enemy which would defeat and destroy? Are our thoughts so filled with spiritual good as to preclude the entry of any opposing thoughts? Upon the answers we make, not in words, but in thoughts and deeds, will depend our progress Spiritward.

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