Article February 16, 1946 Issue

How Much Do I Love?

EDDIE H. MARX

It may be said that Christian Science is like a gem of many facets And even as a jewel, when examined in the light, scintillates and sparkles, so Christian Science shines with a spiritual splendor— with the irradiance and warmth of Love.

It is an easy matter to be a Christian toward those who love us. How natural it is to greet a close friend with a smile, call out a cheerful word to one we love, extend a helping hand to a neighbor who would readily do the same for us. It is so simple that all of us will concede that we qualify! But this is not the test of a Christian—especially a Christian Scientist. The love of a Christian must be so deep that no experience can reverse it and cause hatred to spring forth in its stead. Has someone spoken slightingly of us? Are we actuated by an impelling urge to demand a showdown? Have we decided that there is something basic involved, and that postponement of the expression of brotherly affection is clearly in order until an apology is forthcoming? What quality of love is this?

The doctrine of lex talionis is described in Exodus (21:24, 25), wherein it is stated. "Eye for eye tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe." This concept of justice runs deep in humanity; it is based on a sense of personal righteousness. It is swift to condemn; nothing less than retribution satisfies it. But what was the Master's wonderful counsel as regards thinking retributively? He said (Matt. 5: 38,44), "Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. ... But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."