Article January 16, 1932 Issue

Opportunities Mind Bids Us Accept

OLIVE HILDRETH MAYER

While making a first mental survey of a confronting problem, it is sometimes difficult to include thoughts of gratitude for an opportune season in which to contend against error. Frequently we seem prompted to interrogate ourselves as to the reason for such a trial having entered into our experience. We have done our metaphysical work faithfully, seeking to know and to do God's will, yet quite abruptly we are brought face to face with that which calls for a more consecrated application of Christian Science, the one great solvent of every difficulty. It is not always easy under such circumstances joyfully to accept this new labor, and to perceive the opportunities for further growth which perhaps await us through a new and exacting test at the point at which our faith and affection lie.

When Jesus was apprised concerning the report of Lazarus' illness, he immediately refuted the claim that there could be the slightest degree of truth in the argument for death; and he quickly saw, and pointed out to his followers, the opportunity for glorifying God through the healing and revivifying power of the Christ. We read, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby." Here was at once a direct affirmation of Mind's invincibility, a definite appreciation of the occasion to rise higher in the field of demonstration, and a statement which shone with the holy light of gratitude for the privilege of proving to the waiting multitude the omnipotence of the Father.

On page 571 of the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mrs. Eddy admonishes us, "Know thyself, and God will supply the wisdom and the occasion for a victory over evil." Is it, then, for us to say where or at what time we shall make our greatest demonstrations and be of most service to the Father in feeding His lambs?

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