Article July 20, 1929 ISSUE

Seeking and Finding and Keeping

H. HOLLAND HENDRICKS

To Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, the Sermon on the Mount was one of the most important parts of the Bible. Study of her various writings shows that she considered this sermon, with obedience to its precepts, a prime necessity for spiritual growth. In her textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," she writes (p. 271), "The Sermon on the Mount is the essence of this Science." It is interesting to note that the first definition of "essence" in Webster's Dictionary is, "That by which a thing is what it is." We may well ponder and put into practice these scientific truths uttered by the great Way-shower, truths which can surely be applied to our everyday human needs.

Probably no better rule for use under all circumstances could be found in Jesus' teachings than a statement made by him in the above-mentioned sermon. The Master had been explaining the true method of prayer—that prayer which the Father rewards; he had pointed out the necessity of keeping one's eye single, or being single-hearted, for one cannot progress while trying to serve two masters. "Ye cannot serve God and mammon," he said. Then he illustrated that all needs will be cared for, and that one should not dwell in thought upon material things; that as God cares for the birds and flowers, even so He will care for each one at all times; for are not we "much better than they," and does not the Father know man's every need? Then followed the declaration which has rung down through the centuries, and which is a rule for the solution of every problem: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

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