Article June 9, 1934 Issue

Enriched Affections

LAURA DUNBAR HAGARTY

Prayer lifts the suppliant's thought to the Almighty. While we are in the act of praying in accordance with the instructions of Christian Science, something of the divine nature dawns upon human consciousness; and the stronger the receptivity to the divine light, the weaker the opposite resistance to that light in the thought of the petitioner. Habitual prayer, therefore, raises the level of the petitioner's thinking in its approach to the divine.

Under the heading "Daily Prayer," on page 41 of the Church Manual, Mrs. Eddy gives as a By-Law to govern members of The Mother Church this rousing command: "It shall be the duty of every member of this Church to pray each day: 'Thy kingdom come;' let the reign of divine Truth, Life, and Love be established in me, and rule out of me all sin; and may Thy Word enrich the affections of all mankind, and govern them!"

This By-Law is one of the invigorating and impelling forces of the Christian Science movement. As a result of the acceptance of this By-Law on the part of every member of The Mother Church, an increasing membership is praying daily for the welfare of mankind. The ultimate of this procedure in benefiting Christian Scientists is obvious. Among its less apparent results is the appearing of a better sense of internationalism, which will stand the test of the diverse aims and demands of the races of the earth. The true motive for seeking humanity's welfare, as understood in Christian Science, is not to gain economic or commercial supremacy, or material success. The true motive and motive power are found through righteous prayer. Such idealism is practical, whereas generally accepted measures, when born of suspicion, rivalry, and confusion, are impractical.

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