IN THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BIBLE LESSON October 27, 2008 Issue

NO WAIT FOR GOD'S REDEEMING LOVE

JANET HORTON

THIS WEEK'S Christian Science Bible Lesson, titled "Everlasting Punishment," acquaints us with people who have had firsthand experiences of God's mercy and redeeming love. They come from every walk of life—rebellious children of Israel, a leper from Syria, a hypocrite, enemies, wicked people, a woman considered a sinner, a self-righteous Pharisee, and a man who had been an invalid for 38 years.

As these people seek redemption and purification, and perceive and accept the Truth, they are freed and healed. Justice and mercy go hand in hand with them (see Science and Health, p. 36, Section I, citation 4). They realize the immediate effectiveness of genuine repentance, which frees everyone from the punishment for sinful living (see Science and Health, p. 202, cit. 25). God's response is always instant and involves no waiting.

The Responsive Reading refers to the quintessential example of waiting, the 40-year Exodus. The Hebrews wandered, waiting to reach the promised land, God's kingdom, and enjoy freedom from the slavery they'd known. But they eventually realized that God's promise of freedom was always available and at hand.