Article September 17, 1966 Issue

Mental Stillness

GRACE SODEN HAERLE

Radiance shines forth from the Christian Scientist who demonstrates that his day is God-arranged and who deports himself in an unhurried, tranquil manner. Racing around in pursuit of inconsequentials dims this radiance. Christian Science teaches its followers that periods of prayer stabilize and strengthen the light of spiritualized consciousness acquired in the study of the Bible and the writings of Mrs. Eddy.

In Matthew we read: "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."^{Matt. 5:14–16;} Permitting nonessentials and entanglements to occupy our time and attention is the bushel that would shroud the brightness of outlook gained in prayer and study. When we keep human tasks to the fulfilling of just obligations, to kindnesses, and to unselfed service, we are engaged in righteous activity. But the carnal mind would keep us so encumbered with worldly pursuits that there is a steady round of darkening distractions to spiritual advancement.

It requires steadfast vigilance and a devoted desire for conscious companioning with God and His ideas to tread down firmly many time-wasting interruptions. The student of Christian Science who keeps his life free of complications is letting his "light so shine" that his "good works" are in evidence without disturbance or diminution.

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