Article September 29, 1934 Issue

"I am grateful"

LOUISE RAVENS

IN Luke we find an account of the healing by the Master of ten lepers. As the story develops, the fact is emphasized that but one of the ten returned to glorify God, the other nine evidently thinking it unnecessary to make any acknowledgment to him who had delivered them from their sorry plight. The incident has far greater significance than appears with the mere narration. Apparently the nine were in bondage not only to a belief of physical discord, but, what is far more serious, also to a very unlovely and blighting attitude of thought—that attitude which accepts favors and kindnesses without the impulse of making return in gratitude. This hints an exaggerated sense of self which not only accepts favors, but demands recognition by others—a subtle form of self-worship.

If it were possible for us to follow the subsequent actions of these ten individuals, we might find that the grateful one returned not only to give thanks, but also to learn something of Jesus' teachings. He had evidenced humility and sincere appreciation, and by this very attitude opened wide his thought through which the healing Truth could operate to release him from the errors objectified in his physical condition. We may well believe, then, that some measure of understanding was given him, and consequently an increasingly clearer sense of gratitude.

This true way of restoration dates from before the beginning of the Christian era. In our own day we hear many testimonies of healing through the operation of the Christ, Truth, and over and over again individuals voice the expression, "I am grateful." Let us look a little more carefully at the true meaning of this much-used phrase. Few, if any of the individuals who take up the study of Christian Science know anything of the fundamental teachings of this wonderful truth, but seek it because of some great need. They are physically ill and seek relief from disease; they are in lack and seek material supply; they are beset with inharmonious family conditions and seek peace. And because somebody, perhaps a practitioner, has reached some understanding of the truth about God and man, the seeker is healed. His thoughts are uplifted and his body begins to manifest a normal condition. In a seemingly miraculous manner he finds suitable employment, or his household adjusts itself to a more harmonious environment.

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