Article January 5, 1952 Issue

THE WISDOM OF SIMPLICITY

H. VICTORIA BURNESS

The wisdom of simplicity is not readily recognized in an age which is looking away from the simple facts of being to the obscurities and deviations of the human mind; yet these words of the Psalmist's are as true today as when they were written (Ps. 19:7): "The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple." Our Master, Christ Jesus, understood and practiced simplicity. In that wonderful sermon which is called the Sermon on the Mount he illustrated his points with simple similitudes; in this way his teaching became a vital force to his listeners.

It will be remembered that Jesus said (Matt. 6:28), "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow." The word consider used in this connection is of deep significance to the earnest student of Christian Science. A dictionary defines it in part as "to think on with care; to ponder; to study." Jesus drew his lesson from a lily, a flower which grew in great profusion in his homeland; and, having gained the attention of his listeners, he taught them the great metaphysical fact that all good is available to those whose first desire is to gain an understanding of the kingdom of God. The lilies were not merely to be glanced at and admired; the lessons they taught were to be thought on, pondered. and studied.

Throughout her writings Mary Baker Eddy uses similitudes and parables to illustrate her meaning, and these serve to arrest the thought of the reader by bringing before him illustrations which are easily understood. A study of words such as river, streams, birds, flowers, in her writings will be found illuminating and helpful.

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