Article July 9, 2018 Issue

To love God, serve and love others

Jennifer Johnson

I work as a business manager in a Christian Science nursing facility. A Christian Science nursing facility is a place where individuals can come to rely solely on prayer for healing and be upheld by the spiritual comfort and practical care given by Christian Science nurses. I feel blessed to be part of the Christian Science movement through the work of Christian Science nursing.

In an article called “ ‘Quiet resting places’ ” about Christian Science sanatoriums (the name at the time for Christian Science nursing facilities), Annie Knott, an early student of Mary Baker Eddy, wrote, “To be called to the highest service is indeed an honor which demands fitness to begin with, and also joyful readiness to perform the lowliest tasks” (Sentinel, November 4, 1922). The use of the word lowly, to me, means that to be ready to serve the utmost, we need to be prepared to accomplish the humblest undertakings. So, to serve others in this way is to participate in that “highest service.” It is in this same spirit of humble service that Jesus washed his disciples’ feet. These tasks need not be accomplished grudgingly, but willingly and with joy! Mrs. Eddy wrote in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, “God selects for the highest service one who has grown into such a fitness for it as renders any abuse of the mission an impossibility” (p. 455).

By being ready to carry out the tasks God gives us, whatever they may be, we are serving and paying homage to Him.