In a land where government is "by the people" and "for the people," ^{Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address, 1863;} what is "big government"? Who are the "they" commonly referred to as the government? If the people are the sovereign power, the "they" is us, isn't it? Because we are the "they," doesn't our willingness to stand for what we believe have a distinct bearing on the atmosphere about us, whether in our homes, our churches, our careers, or in our governments or the world at large?

If we permit ourselves to become cynical and skeptical, ready to believe the suggestion that there is no hope for advancing human rights and no receptivity to new ideas—if we have a "what's the use?" attitude—we sell ourselves short. Apathy and conformity on the part of citizens may give rise to misuse—even abuse—of power. Participation in the governmental process at all levels is essential if democratic standards as we know them are to continue.

It can be beneficial to examine our thought to determine also how we are dealing with the government of our branch Church of Christ, Scientist. Are we leaving it up to "them"? Do we register a complaint with a friend or neighbor but neglect to take legitimate, intelligent action? Do we remember to vote according to unfailing trust in God's management and control of events? The issues are not lack of support, power struggles, or the like, but the age-old challenge to good by the assertive claims of evil—the specious, often glamorous promises of undisciplined living. The life-giving ways of selflessness, purity, justice, honesty, the ways of freedom and an abundant life, belong to good.

Surely we must learn to think things through for ourselves if we are to vote intelligently in any election. We need to be aware of the current issues, consider the various choices.

In Christian Science we discover that every activity is enriched when it is the outcome of prayer. We need a conscious knowing that Mind alone governs the universe and humanity's affairs. Our names are never missing from God's roll, and through prayer we can see the effects of His government made manifest. Reformation, ethical conduct, integrity, accountability, and a responsiveness to the needs of others begin to appear, and the good of the whole becomes uppermost in thought and deed.

So with church membership, one can no more become a full church member by simply filling out a membership form than one can take part in an election by just registering to vote. In Science and Health Mrs. Eddy writes: "Our church is built on the divine Principle, Love. We can unite with this church only as we are newborn of Spirit, as we reach the Life which is Truth and the Truth which is Life by bringing forth the fruits of Love,—casting out error and healing the sick." ^{Science and Health, p. 35;} Think of it! Although formal church membership shows our willingness to stand up and be counted as Christian Scientists, we must practice what we are learning to qualify as bona fide members.

Standing for our convictions, however, doesn't always mean that everyone will suddenly agree with our views—often quite the contrary! But if we are firm in our commitment to Christ, Truth, and willing to call to account the devious ways and means of self-interested methods and underhand practices, which might tempt us, we will gain strength and respect. We will learn to express the dignity and assurance only Truth can give. In The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany Mrs. Eddy tells us: "The Magna Charta of Christian Science means much, multum in parvo,— all-in-one and one-in-all. It stands for the inalienable, universal rights of men. Essentially democratic, its government is administered by the common consent of the governed, wherein and whereby man governed by his creator is self-governed." ^{Miscellany, pp. 246–247;}

National governments usually have some form of constitution upon which to establish the continuity of their laws. In the Christian Science movement the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy is the ultimate authority. This small book has no small function. It is the bond of Truth, which helps to prevent ambition, ambiguity, competition, conflict, personal domination, resistance, and fears under every imaginable disguise from restricting the worldwide activity of The Mother Church. Every element of church affairs can find clear direction in this God-inspired book.

As members adhere closely to the Church Manual, a mutual respect develops. We see each one, irrespective of age or experience, as governed by Truth. We increase our understanding of the individual's ability, indeed his right, to listen to Truth and decide on an appropriate action. We become less anxious about the possible outcome. We cease to accept the belief that people are necessarily limited, irresponsible, or manipulated by economics or personality. More and more we feel the inevitable assurance that God is in control. We truly begin to see those about us (as well as ourselves) as receptive to God's all-guiding presence and power. This manifestation of resurrected Christliness is the hope of the world. It is evidence of the presence of Mind's divine management.

Whether in the nation or the church, even if "our" man or woman doesn't win the election, we can trust the result of our prayers and support the right efforts of the one elected to office. How wonderful to realize control as always in God's hands and to see even small evidences of this control in collective affairs. Foreseeing the coming manifestation of God, Isaiah writes, "The government shall be upon his shoulder." ^{Isa. 9:6;} Because God is divine Mind, His undeviating, harmonious government of the universe can be seen acting wherever intelligence is expressed. It can regulate events and guide parliaments, church executive boards, and individuals alike. Divine Principle is always the chief executive, so to speak, and holds an administrative monopoly because there is no other power.

This does not mean that we can charge Love with oppressive, totalitarian, or inhuman powers or practices. But often lessons have to be learned, both individually and collectively, and this is largely a step-by-step process. As we clear the mist from our mental view, we begin to see more clearly the actual presence of God's all-harmonious universe. As each one endeavors to live by his highest understanding of right, we will see evidenced the mighty overseeing of Soul in human affairs.

Is there still a "Yes, but ..." lingering in thought? Then perhaps we should ask ourselves who to us is mighty—imperial powers, elected officials, employers, spouses? Whom do we honor with obedience? What is operating as law in our daily lives?

The governing force of omnipotent Principle, as expressed through Mrs. Eddy's writings and the Bible, is the law that has everlasting foundation. Those among us who are willing to yield to divine law before all else will find opportunities to bring more of this confidence in divine power to mankind. It is recorded in the first chapter of Genesis that "the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." ^{Gen. 1:2.} Then things began to happen!