Article November 8, 1930 Issue

"Come and see"

ROBERT ELLIS KEY

When Christ Jesus called Andrew and his friend to be his disciples, how spontaneously the summons was obeyed! "Where dwellest thou?" they asked. "Come and see," replied the Master; and, as the narrative continues, "they came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day." Here was a direct call, and immediate response, an unhesitating acceptance. Why was this? Why were John the Baptist's disciples so quickly able and willing to leave their first teacher and take up their abode with the new Master?

It is clear that a material habitation, however desirable, could not have been the goal of men who were in search of the Messiah. From the Gospel narratives it is also clear that Jesus cared little whether his resting place was a housetop or a hilltop, provided he could retire from the tumult of the world and find refuge in communion with his heavenly Father, God. The dwelling place to which he referred, and to which these disciples immediately repaired, was clearly more than an earthly homestead. What Jesus invited them to come and see was that heavenly state of consciousness of which he himself was the perfect exemplar. They were bidden to understand that heavenly state, born of the Father, in which the inspired Saviour had his dwelling place. Here they too would find health, holiness, immortality, the joy and fragrance of spiritual being, the gentleness of divine Love, and the strength of divine Principle. In this heavenly state of thought the Master dwelt continuously, and all who desired to follow him must be willing and ready to enter this sacred sanctuary.

To every Christian Scientist this simple invitation, "Come and see," has a profound significance. It points to the acceptance and demonstration of the Christlike consciousness. It signifies implicit obedience to the call of Christ, without which no pilgrim may enter the celestial city. Like Andrew and his fellows, we must recognize this heavenly state of being and find an abiding place within its sanctuary.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

Joyous Mountain Climbing