Article October 3, 1936 Issue

An Open Door

ELIZABETH G. MC KINSTRY

The revelation of Christian Science came to Mary Baker Eddy, and in loving response to God's command she gave it to a weary, waiting world through her textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and her other writings. Because of the spiritual import of her teachings she saw the necessity of guarding them against misunderstanding and misuse, and having founded her Church she gave us the Manual containing Rules and By-Laws for its proper government and conduct.

As the Cause advanced, our Leader saw the need for the establishment and maintenance of Reading Rooms where the Bible and her writings, as well as all other authorized Christian Science literature, might be procured; and herein the way-weary traveler finds a veritable haven of rest. As those seeking spiritual help and refreshment turn toward these places thus provided by Love for humanity, they find an "open door" like that spoken of in Revelation: "Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it."

The work of assistants or librarians in Christian Science Reading Rooms is very inspiring. The conscientious, earnest librarian realizes that "the open fount is free to all," and that the table is always spread for a feast. He has a great opportunity to welcome the weary traveler and to see him emerge, after a quiet hour spent in the Reading Room, refreshed and strengthened by Truth for the next lap of his journey; for are we not all fellow travelers on life's highway? Mrs. Eddy has said in Science and Health (p. 174), "The footsteps of thought, rising above material standpoints, are slow, and portend a long night to the traveller; but the angels of His presence—the spiritual intuitions that tell us when 'the night is far spent, the day is at hand'—are our guardians in the gloom."

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors