Editorial January 1, 1938 Issue

"Lift up a standard for the people"

Duncan Sinclair

Isaiah's words come vividly to the thought of every genuine Christian Scientist: "Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." "Prepare ye the way of the people; ... lift up a standard for the people" (Isaiah 60:1; 62:10). The prophet's appeal is to them, for, through Christian Science, Truth has come to their understanding, the Christ has been revealed to them.

But are you certain of that? asks the skeptic. The Christian Scientist answers unhesitatingly, Yes, because I have proved the power of Christ, Truth, in my experience. He may go on to tell of a healing he has had of sickness or sin; or he may recount how he has lost a dread of lack, and now enjoys a sense of abundance. The Christian Scientist is sure of his position, for he has demonstrated its soundness. Moreover, he is acquainted with the fact that in numerous ways the truth which Christian Science reveals has met the needs of others, and because of this they, like himself, now rejoice in the spiritual freedom they have obtained. Indeed, it is common knowledge that Christian Science has healed many of so-called incurable disease, cleansed others from inveterate sin, restored a measure of prosperity to a multitude too great to number.

When one has proved for himself the truth which Christian Science reveals, what is the most natural thing for him to do? Is it not that he should tell others of his discovery and the liberation it has brought him? Christ Jesus expected his followers to do just that. He said (Matthew 5:15), "Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house." We should let our spiritual light shine. But this must be done in a wise way, for not everyone is ready for spiritual truth, not everyone is prepared to receive it. We have therefore to seek divine Mind's guidance continually as to whom we shall bring Christian Science, and when we shall do so.

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