Are you sure?
This bookmark will be removed from all folders and any saved notes will be permanently removed.
The rule of a higher law in Hong Kong
Originally published in The Christian Science Monitor’s Christian Science Perspective column, July 9, 2019.
Twenty-two years ago, while living in Hong Kong, I watched the historic handover of Hong Kong from the United Kingdom to China. There was much rejoicing among some of my local friends. Hong Kong was a thriving economy, and people felt connected to their Chinese roots. A new government of “one country, two systems” seemed a good way forward to many. Others felt the need to relocate to countries where the government was securely and historically democratic. And then there were those in between, who preferred to stay and wait, keeping their options open.
Recent events in response to what many see as a tightening of Chinese control of Hong Kong have motivated me to pray about this situation. In particular, there has been use of the term “rule of law” by the Hong Kong government. But many of the protesters see Chinese law—which some Hong Kong citizens could have been subject to had a controversial proposed law been passed—as not impartially applied.
My prayers have been inspired by a short “Daily Prayer” that I learned about when I was introduced to the healing practice of Christian Science while living in Hong Kong. The prayer was written by the Discoverer of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy, who saw the need for prayer to be unselfish and radiate outward to bless all humanity. It speaks of a unity found under the rule of a higher law—divine law: “ ‘Thy kingdom come;’ let the reign of divine Truth, Life, and Love be established in me, and rule out of me all sin; and may Thy Word enrich the affections of all mankind, and govern them!” (Manual of The Mother Church, p. 41).
Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.
