In 1974 I didn't know a thing about Christian Science

LUIZ ESCOBAR MARTINEZ

In 1974 I didn't know a thing about Christian Science. Then one Sunday I happened to tune in to a radio station in Joinville that was broadcasting the Christian Science program, "The Truth That Heals." That same Sunday my son, Marcio, and I attended a service in the local branch Church of Christ, Scientist.

At that time I had taken all kinds of medicine, but none had healed me. I was suffering from stomach and liver trouble that caused me great anguish and pain. Most of what I ate made me ill. In this distressed state I grasped eagerly at Christian Science. There was already a Bible in my home—though until then it had been put away—and soon I purchased a copy of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. Aided by the Christian Science Quarterly, I began regular study of the Bible Lessons.

The Word of God took on new meaning for me as I gained a spiritual understanding of our Leader's writings. In Science and Health she states (p. 381): "Be no more willing to suffer the illusion that you are sick or that some disease is developing in the system, than you are to yield to a sinful temptation on the ground that sin has its necessities." I pondered this passage often. Also strengthening was the ninety-first Psalm, which assures us (vv. 1-3): "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence."