Article January 1, 1949 Issue

WHO SHOULD HEAL THE SICK?

AGNES E. HEDENBERGH

Throughout the Bible the presence, power, and love of God are shown in healing. The Psalmist tells of God's love for man in the tender and beautiful lines (Ps. 103:2, 3), "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases."

Christ Jesus gave the same sign of the presence of God by healing the sick. And in the tenth chapter of Matthew we read that he gathered his twelve disciples together and gave them power, through his instruction, to destroy evil and to heal all types of disease. He sent them out into the world, commanding them to "heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons" (verse 8, Rev. Ver.).

Mary Baker Eddy so valued these four short phrases that she used them on the cover of all her books and periodicals. And they should serve to remind every student of Christian Science of what is expected of him. Mrs. Eddy proved Christian Science by healing. As Jesus sent forth his followers to heal, and gave them much helpful instruction as to their conduct, so our beloved Leader expected her followers to heal. In the Church Manual she gives her students Rules and By-Laws to guide them. Her statement in Article XXX, Section 7, leaves no doubt as to the duty of church members. It reads: "Healing the sick and the sinner with Truth demonstrates what we affirm of Christian Science, and nothing can substitute this demonstration. I recommend that each member of this Church shall strive to demonstrate by his or her practice, that Christian Science heals the sick quickly and wholly, thus proving this Science to be all that we claim for it." We all know that healing is the cornerstone of our church and is necessary for the continued success and advancement of Christian Science.

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