Editorial September 22, 1980 Issue

Presence and absence

NATHAN A. TALBOT

When troubles crop up, it's comforting to acknowledge that God is present. Such a simple concept heals; it carries power regardless of how modest our understanding of God may be. The statement carries power because it's a divine fact. God is present. When, in humility, we acknowledge that fact, we are blessed.

Because God is good, infinitely powerful and merciful, our acknowledgment goes some distance to dissolve whatever appears unmerciful and evil. People of virtually every religious persuasion have benefited from the acceptance of God's presence.

But more can be done. To recognize that God is present is but one step. To affirm that God is ever-present calls for a deeper admission. This larger acknowledgment, when intelligently made, carries increased potency. We'll feel God's nature more significantly by recognizing the truth that there's never a moment when God is absent. He is always available to help us.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

How well do you know Mary Baker Eddy?