The “kingdom of heaven” on the subway

Acknowledging the spiritual individuality of everyone and our inseparability from God uplifts the mental atmosphere.

My daily train and subway rides to and from work in a major United States city have often been a study in contrasts. I frequently observe people quietly reading or sharing space peacefully, and sometimes talented musicians perform their music. But other times I see a sadder, more discouraging picture of mental disturbance. 

Traveling on public transportation and walking the underground tunnels of the subway give us special opportunities to see our fellow man in a spiritual light. From years of studying Christian Science, which includes deep exploration of the Bible and the healing ministry of Christ Jesus,
I have come to understand that turning to God in prayer is vital in difficult situations. Well-intentioned human efforts don’t always succeed or last. Specific plans to tackle problems such as crime, homelessness, and mental illness can be helpful but typically do not bring the spiritual transformation humanity so desperately needs. But I’ve found that silently acknowledging the God-given individuality of everyone and our inseparability from God—the one true source or Parent, divine Love—uplifts the mental atmosphere.

Mary Baker Eddy, who assiduously studied the Bible and Jesus’ works throughout her remarkable life, wrote in the textbook of Christian Science that “. . . the human self must be evangelized” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 254).

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