Spiritual growth and its natural meridian

Could it be said that maintaining momentum in one’s growth Spiritward is as vital as beginning it in the first place? I love how Mary Baker Eddy, who founded Christian Science, encouraged people to reach higher and farther in their practice of Christian Science. To the students in one of her classes, she wrote: “Beloved:—I am glad you enjoy the dawn of Christian Science; you must reach its meridian. Watch, pray, demonstrate. Released from materialism, you shall run and not be weary, walk and not faint” (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 254). 

Especially interesting is that word meridian. When you throw a ball up into the air, the peak of its height is its meridian. In her counsel, Mrs. Eddy refers to spiritual heights that spring from a knowledge and demonstration of the laws and power of God. In contrast to the fact that a ball must fall back to earth, however, this divine power and these spiritual laws always remain at the apex of strength, available to every single one of us.

This healing, transforming power of God brought to bear on human consciousness is a hallmark of Christian Science. Full release from materialism—the meridian of Christian Science—comes with the culmination of knowledge, understanding, and practice. Attaining this meridian may seem like a big assignment. Yet, it must be attainable, or humanity’s Way-shower, Christ Jesus, wouldn’t have demonstrated it and, through his example, encouraged us to reach for it.