Editorial March 14, 1953 Issue

MESSAGE TO A SERVICEMAN

Robert Ellis Key

Are you called upon to serve in the armed forces of your country? Then regard your assignment as an opportunity and not as an infliction. If you are a student of Christian Science, you will find many opportunities for spiritual advancement and growth. If you have been a pupil in the Christian Science Sunday School, you are familiar with the basic teachings of Christian Science and undoubtedly own the textbooks, the Bible and "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, for you know that these two books are the basic equipment of a Christian Scientist. You will also have with you the Christian Science Quarterly and will realize the necessity of giving as much time as possible to the study of the weekly Lesson-Sermon contained therein.

As a student of Christian Science you should cultivate the habit of studying the weekly Lesson-Sermon —all of it, if possible—every day. You should not regard this study as a ritual or merely as a duty, but as an opportunity given you to fortify yourself with spiritual truths, which will bring you peace and protection.

After joining the service you may find it necessary to make many mental adjustments. You will be confronted with unfamiliar conditions: rough living, broad sociability, and unaccustomed restrictions. These conditions are adjusted through an understanding of Christian Science. The unclean speech, the gambling craze, the insubordination of others to lawful authority, find no place in true consciousness, and because of your practice of Christian Science they will have no foothold in you. Your example of clean living and manly conduct will draw others up to your standard. To this end take note of Paul's advice (Eph. 6:11), "Put on the whole armour of God."

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