Article March 11, 1933 Issue

We Can All Give

ELEANOR RICHEY JOHNSTON

IN the heart of every child, man, and woman there is the natural desire to give; and as progress in Christian Science is made this desire increases and becomes definitely focused on the giving of good to one's fellow men. To the beginner in the study of this Science there is often some confusion and indecision as to exactly what form this giving should take. Right giving may seem to present a problem during the transitional stage, in which the mistaken belief that material objects only are available for gifts is not yet displaced by the new understanding that spiritual ideas are the real and valuable gifts. Peter bridged this transitional stage when he said to the man at the gate Beautiful, "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee," and gave to him that which was precious beyond computation—a healing accomplished by knowing the presence and activity of the spiritual ideas constituting God's man. We too can bridge this uncertain stage, and, even if our steps sometimes falter as we seek the right way to give, we can turn earnestly and persistently to our Father in prayer for guidance in this matter; and we shall certainly learn how to give aright.

Why do I so ardently desire to give? What have I to give? How can I give? What will be the result of my giving? These may be questions that each student will ask himself on this subject of giving as he continues to work and pray, seeking to follow the injunction, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." That this desire to give is natural is readily seen when it is understood that God is ever giving good to man, and that man is constantly reflecting not only the desire, but the ability and the power, to give. Since man cannot be separated from God, he can never be separated from the opportunity to give rightly and abundantly.

What have we to give? Why, all that our loving Father-Mother God has given to His children, namely, the spiritual ideas included in divine Mind. We have love to give; we have comforting words of truth; we have wisdom, hope, assurance, gentleness, faith, and friendship to give. We can give as we set aside selfishness and mortal will for joyous obedience to God's purposes. The result of such giving will always be the furthering of "on earth peace, good will toward men"—peace which silences the fearful, doubting, clamorous claims of mortal mind. These would limit us and prevent our receiving from divine Love that we may have something to give; good will, reflecting God's will in the consciousness of the giver, and blessing those to whom he gives. God's gift of spiritual ideas is the perfect gift, blessing all who accept them, healing and saving continuously.

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