Article September 16, 1933 Issue

The Prayer of Salvation

[Original article in German]

KATHARINA SCHWEDER

After we begin to study Christian Science our attention is sooner or later drawn to the twenty-third Psalm, because this Psalm may be regarded as a prayer strictly in accordance with Christian Science. It is a prayer of affirmation. It is a declaration of the presence of God, good, and contains an assurance of supply by all-embracing Love. It shows how a true longing for God, a deep study of His Word, and devotion to Him bring full salvation.

In the first chapter of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," entitled "Prayer," we find ample explanation of the right kind of prayer, prayer which is answered and which includes giving thanks as well as asking blessings. Such prayer ushers us into heaven, the consciousness of Love. In this textbook Mrs. Eddy brings out the spiritual meaning of the twenty-third Psalm, as well as of the Lord's Prayer.

Jesus knew that there is but one cause, one substance, one law, one Spirit, comprehending all. This recognition of true Life gave him power and dominion over every material condition. He based his teachings on the promises and truths revealed in the Old Testament. He said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." Thus it may be said that he based his statements on spiritual facts, such as are shown forth in the twenty-third Psalm, when his disciples asked him to teach them to pray. His prayers were always in accord with the nature of his heavenly Father, and so were answered. This uplifted prayer certainly gains the divine ear when we strive to live in obedience to divine law, as did our Master; and thus are the promises fulfilled for us also. The inseparable connection of the spiritual idea with its divine source exists and may be proved today as of yore. Referring to man's spiritual being, Mrs. Eddy says in Science and Health (p. 76), "This state of existence is scientific and intact,—a perfection discernible only by those who have the final understanding of Christ in divine Science."

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