Article July 12, 1969 Issue

Do Christian Scientists Have Fun?

EVELYN P. JENSEN

Religion has always been a serious pursuit. How, then, does recreation fit into the life of a Christian Scientist? The student of this religion has many opportunities for fun, and rightly so, but he keeps it in proper perspective. He may travel extensively. He enjoys sports, normal social activities, and vacations just as much as anyone. He doesn't emphasize diversion, however, nor depend upon it for his well-being. Christian Science teaches that it is a change in attitude, a spiritual awakening, not a change in environment, which regenerates. But the student does realize that certain amounts of leisure and recreation are normal and that they are often an opportunity for uplifting consciousness spiritually.

While Christ Jesus did not take vacations in the modern sense, he withdrew at times for prayerful communion with God. These periods of refreshment enabled him to return to his fellow beings as a more inspired teacher and healer. And when anyone replenishes his spiritual resources during a vacation, he also returns better equipped for the business of living.

Worldliness has just the opposite effect. Physical stimulation alone does not satisfy, nor does inactivity necessarily bring rest. We should not define either work or play solely in material terms. In his parable of the sower, Jesus explains that those "choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life... bring no fruit to perfection." Luke 8:14;

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Pause Prayerfully
July 12, 1969
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit