Article August 22, 1936 Issue

Rest that Remaineth

MARGARET H. ANDERSON

In the fourth chapter of the epistle to the Hebrews we read, "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God." If these words are construed as referring to a condition of peace to be experienced in the hereafter, the possibility of realizing a present fulfillment of the promise is somewhat obscured. Dictionary meanings of the word "remain" include "abide," "endure," "continue unchanged or undiminished." Surely, then, rest for all God's children abides and endures, to be experienced not only in a future state of existence, but here and now.

Deep in every heart lies the intuitive desire for rest and peace. The concepts of what constitutes rest vary, however, according to individual human experience. Some long to be free from physical toil involved in earning a living, from the struggle of what is called "making ends meet." Others desire surcease from disease and suffering, from worry, anxiety, sorrow, and fear.

Christ Jesus knew the solution to all these difficulties. He understood that, notwithstanding all seeming material evidence, God, Spirit, infinite unchanging good, is ever present; and thus he could not be robbed of an abiding sense of rest. His constant communion with God, in the consciousness of spiritual being wholly apart from materiality, enabled him to be calm under all circumstances, even when he was arraigned before Pilate. Because of his ineffable love for God and man, the great Teacher desired to share with all humanity the peace and rest which dwelt continually in his own heart. His tender appeal has called throughout the centuries: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."

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