Our reason for existing

As I’ve studied Christian Science, I’ve been uplifted by a letter written by Mary Baker Eddy to a branch Church of Christ, Scientist. It reads in part, “. . . may each member of this church rise above the oft-repeated inquiry, What am I? to the scientific response: I am able to impart truth, health, and happiness, and this is my rock of salvation and my reason for existing” (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 165). 

While I was working from home one Monday last summer, I started to feel ill, so I went upstairs to my bed to rest. My husband had recently gotten over being sick, so when he came upstairs and asked why I was lying down, I found myself saying, “I probably have whatever you had last Friday.” 

It felt wrong to say this, though, because it sounded like I didn’t believe that my own husband could consistently “impart truth, health, and happiness.” I had to ask myself: If my “reason for existing” is to impart these things, then wouldn’t this also be true for my husband—and all individuals? Aren’t we all one with God? As the Bible puts it: “Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us?” (Malachi 2:10).

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Bible Lens
Mind
February 13, 2023
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit