Article August 6, 2007 Issue

Decisions and the Sixth Tenet Factor

BY ROGER GORDON

RECENTLY, I've been looking at the tenets of Christian Science in a fresh way. More than just a set of rules, I've found, the tenets grand opportunities to really get in tune with God. As I've thought about them, it seems to me that the central message of the tenets is to know, feel, and love God supremely. These important points simply prepare my thought to reflect God's thoughts. And they are all about gaining a higher and holier state of consciousness, which heals instantaneously.

The last tenet in particular is a promise that can bring great rewards: "And we solemnly promise to watch, and pray for that Mind to be in us which was also in Christ Jesus; to do unto others as we would have them do unto us; and to be merciful, just, and pure" (Science and Health, p. 497). This helps us feel God in our lives and provides guidance in making good decisions. Consciously living this tenet helped me know God in such a comforting way—one that eventually led me to make a good decision in my life.

Months ago, as I prepared to graduate from college, I was waiting for acceptance letters for grad school. One afternoon, I ran to the campus mailbox to check my mail for the third time that day. There in my box, finally, was a letter. I ripped it open. Before I could blink, I saw the words, "We regret to inform you ...." I'd been rejected—again.