Article September 2, 2019 Issue

Honorable service that glorifies God

Matthew Schmidt

Nothing can tarnish God’s glory or hinder God from providing care for His creation—this is a comforting reality brought out by Christian Science.

This spiritual truth is needed by many in the world today, particularly those who serve in dangerous situations, such as military service members as well as police officers and other first responders. Their service can sometimes require them to make very difficult decisions while under great pressure. For some, these decisions continue to be very real and troubling even long after they were made. If a tragic mistake was made in the heat of the moment, it can be a heavy burden to carry. It may seem that there is little or no hope for healing. I’m finding, however, that prayer as taught by Christ Jesus and further illuminated in the teachings of Christian Science truly can make a difference for the better.

The lingering effects of trauma would seem to run counter to the promises of God’s deliverance and care given so clearly throughout the Bible and demonstrated especially in Christ Jesus’ healing works. Jesus taught, “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). The Greek word translated in this passage as persecuted can also refer to being pursued. This second meaning seems to fit those individuals who are dealing with trauma and regret from having encountered tragic circumstances or from having made a mistake; they may have striven to be truly righteous in their service to others, but they are being negatively pursued by the past.