Editorial April 18, 1942 Issue

Duty

Evelyn F. Heywood

Duty has been thus defined: "Where a man loves what he commands himself to do." Since our first duty is to love, it follows that if we perform our duty without love, then but a measure, and that the least part of it, has been accomplished. On page 293 of "Miscellaneous Writings" Mary Baker Eddy has written, "The sum total of Love reflected is exemplified, and includes the whole duty of man."

The obligation of universal love and service was lived and taught by Christ Jesus. None ever led a life more wholly dedicated to love and duty than did he. "For their sakes I sanctify myself," he declared. It was not sufficient that he sanctify himself for his own resurrection and ascension. He saw no duty apart from that which involved his brethren, and that duty was included in love. "As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you," he told them.

We see that the same ideal of love for mankind inspired and impelled the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science. To prove that the laws of God which govern the universe are ever present and available, to give them to the world, this was the duty which our Leader set herself when her own healing had convinced her of the power of the Christ to redeem mankind from sickness and sin. To lift men out of the irresponsibility of indolence, of apathy, of self-interest, and to make them see that what they do is not because they must or should, but simply because they love—this was the task she undertook. How gracious, how beautiful a world will appear when this is universally recognized!

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