Article November 13, 1937 Issue

Alms and Prayer

ELSIE ASHWELL

In the tenth chapter of the Acts of the Apostles the brief story of Cornelius is told. He was a centurion of the band known as the Italian band and was stationed at Caesarea. He "gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway." The simple narrative is worthy of contemplation in order that one may catch a fuller glimpse of his life of generous purpose and constant prayer, and of the significance of his baptism, as a step toward the admitting of Gentiles into the early Christian church.

Contemporary history also sheds some light on the character of Cornelius. He was, it is said, a proselyte of the Jewish church, known as "God-fearing," and as a "proselyte of the gate," as distinguished from those converts who accepted the entire ceremonial of admission. Everything recorded bears witness to his simple acceptance of the truth. His almsgiving and prayers helped to dissolve racial prejudice and open the door of the church to the Gentiles, thus lighting the path by which humanity still journeys towards the Christianity established by Christ Jesus.

Centuries later our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, wrote (Science and Health, p. 192), "Whatever holds human thought in line with unselfed love, receives directly the divine power." Under the guidance of divine power, Peter, the apostle, went forth to meet the Roman soldier. What a momentous visit to Cornelius' house! What an outpouring of the Spirit followed the recognition of the universal nature of God's love to man!

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

The Standpoint of Spirit