IN THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BIBLE LESSON July 21, 2008 Issue

ANOINTED BY EVERLASTING LOVE

KATHY FITZER

THIS WEEK'S Christian Science Bible Lesson, titled "Love," illustrates God's everlasting love and how each one of us is blessed by it.

St. John wrote, "God is love" (I John 4:16, Section I, citation 3). Mary Baker Eddy elaborated, "Love, the divine Principle, is the Father and Mother of the universe, including man" (Science and Health, p. 256, cit. 2). It's a joy to search each section of this Lesson for the action of Love, and for what is required of us in order to unite with the everlasting Love that cares for us and enables us to overcome hate and sin—to bless, heal, and love one another.

The second through fifth sections of this Lesson focus on the career of David, illustrating the power of Love to anoint and protect, as well as to forgive. Samuel quietly anointed David as Saul's successor to the throne (see Sect. II, cit. 4). While he continued to take care of his father's sheep, empowered and protected by Love, David humbly and fearlessly fought and killed Goliath (see Sect. III, cit. 7). But after ascending the throne, David was guilty of covetousness, lust, and murder. Then, acknowledging his error, he begged Love's mercy, and through repentance went on to become a king of kings (see Sect. IV). Later, when confronted by the hate and cursing of a former loyalist to Saul, named Shimei, David rejected retribution and instead responded with love and blessing (see Sect. V).

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