From the Editors May 5, 2014 ISSUE

Watching for peace

The Editors

In light of Russia’s annexation of Crimea, many people, especially in Europe, are concerned about the future of Ukraine and how changes in that country will affect neighboring nations. The Ukrainian election, scheduled for May 25, could lead to greater stability, but a strong undercurrent of distrust in the government could undo such progress.

Even in what may appear to be the most godless environments, divine Love is present.

Christian thinkers—no matter where they live—can support a healing outcome by challenging any belief of instability with a recognition of God’s ever-present power and goodness. Under God’s government, all who are working to solve the crisis can act with intelligence and inspiration. As the prophet Isaiah put it, “Wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation” (Isaiah 33:6 ). The spiritual conviction that divine “wisdom and knowledge” reign will open the way to solutions that bless. Even in what may appear to be the most godless environments, divine Love is present. As a loved hymn puts it:

   … behind the dim unknown
Standeth God within the shadow
   Keeping watch above His own.
(J. R. Lowell, Christian Science Hymnal, No. 258 )

The spiritual fact of God’s ever-presence means in practical terms that all the qualities of God—unlimited intelligence, unswerving love, spiritual strength, incorruptible truth, fearless life, Soul-filled peace—can be called on, no matter where we are. In divine Mind there can be no conflict or any destructive desires because Mind is One and is also Love. This oneness of Mind, understood, eliminates conflict and provides unifying and satisfying solutions. It alleviates fear, and opens the door to peace.

Those troubled about possible outcomes can gain strength from the 23rd Psalm by adapting its opening line to prayer about the Ukrainian situation: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” For example:

  • I shall not want for peace.
  • I shall not want for trust.
  • I shall not want for wisdom.
  • I shall not want for strength.

In her short book The People’s Idea of God, Mary Baker Eddy wrote, “Periods and peoples are characterized by their highest or their lowest ideals, by their God and their devil. … Recognizing this as we ought, we shall turn often from marble to model, from matter to Mind, to beautify and exalt our lives” (pp. 6–7 ).

Turning from “matter to Mind” on behalf of Ukraine, Crimea, and Russia, will help to “beautify and exalt” the truly good and spiritual nature of all their citizens.

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