Editorial March 2, 1929 Issue

Teachableness

Violet Ker Seymer

Perhaps impetuosity is the characteristic which is apt first of all to come to one's thought in connection with the disciple Peter. But the very one who, through fear, moral cowardice, and a false sense of self-preservation, betrayed his beloved Master and hung his head in shame at his treachery, was later found preaching Christianity, healing the sick, and raising the dead. How had the disciple covered so much ground so rapidly? Through the redemptive power of divine Love, and through his perpetual teachableness.

Peter's eagerness to learn was in evidence on the occasion when the Master washed his disciples' feet. At first Peter demurred; then he exclaimed, "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head," thus signifying his eagerness to be cleansed from every undesirable trait, to surrender in toto the imperfect mortal concept. Here was no pride, no desire for concealment, no attempt at procrastination in the overcoming of all ungodlikeness, and no clinging to a false sense of pleasure. Can every student of Christian Science say the same?

One who would "put off the old man" must not only be teachable at some points, but at all points relating to his character, his daily pursuits, his habits, and his innermost thinking. On page 8 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mrs. Eddy writes, "We never need to despair of an honest heart; but there is little hope for those who come only spasmodically face to face with their wickedness and then seek to hide it." It requires not a little courage and perseverance to continue to overcome false beliefs as they are uncovered by Truth; but divine Love raises the fallen and sustains their every upward footstep when they are teachable. Complete reliance on the infinite wisdom of God brings with it the assurance of perpetual guidance and support.

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