Article September 13, 1958 Issue

"O REST IN THE LORD"

SARAH ELLA PAINE

Many people have been refreshed and encouraged while listening to the beautiful solo "O rest in the Lord" from the oratorio "Elijah" by Mendelssohn. The words for this particular aria are based on part of the thirty-seventh Psalm. Sometimes, however, this listening may bring only a temporary respite from the cares and weariness of human experience. In order that we may gain a higher sense of ever-available rest, it is well to consider just what it means to "rest in the Lord."

In the first place, if we are truly to "rest in the Lord," we should learn what God is. In the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," in answer to the question, "What is God?" Mary Baker Eddy says (p. 465), "God is incorporeal, divine, supreme, infinite Mind, Spirit, Soul, Principle, Life, Truth, Love."

These seven synonyms by no means signify seven different gods, but show seven aspects of the one God and so bring out a fuller understanding of infinity. The thought of God's completeness is restful, since suggestions of incompleteness, inadequacy, and limited strength, capacity, and life cause weariness and restlessness. A growing understanding of the wholeness of God and the consequent completeness of man, who is made in the image and likeness of God, gives one an increasing ability to rest normally and to feel a continual sense of calm and peace.

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