Regardless of what may seem to be the circumstances, there is never a time or an occasion when we do not have the opportunity before us to be of help to those whose lives touch ours. The Christian Scientist has the opportunity to present the new-old story of God and man in such a manner that many around him will desire and accept the teachings of Christian Science and thus be guided rightly.

Frequently what is called cynicism stems from the disappointment of not seeing words backed up by deeds. What fair-minded person will not agree with this statement in the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures'" by Mary Baker Eddy (p. 354): "Consistency is seen in example more than in precept. Inconsistency is shown by words without deeds, which are like clouds without rain"? Much talking about Christian Science and little demonstration do not find ready response from onlookers. They need to be shown by example that demonstration follows the spiritual understanding of what Science teaches.

Does not everyone, without respect to his position or circumstances, desire to learn more of the rules which govern successful activity and bring happiness and well-being? And is it so strange that one looks askance at those who would teach by words without deeds? He who offers Christian Science to another and explains it, to use Mrs. Eddy's own words, "as the law of God, the law of good, interpreting and demonstrating the divine Principle and rule of universal harmony" (Rudimental Divine Science, p. 1). must prove as well as teach that good has been found and is universal. What greater proof can one offer mankind than to so demonstrate the power, presence, and ever-availability of the infinitely good Principle of the universe, God, that he becomes a lively example of the power of good?

What are the basic teachings of this religion of ours that we hope to see accepted by mankind? They are simple: the goodness, perfection, and allness of God; the perfection of man as God's complete and unfallen child; and our God-given ability to demonstrate the spiritual truth of being in better and purer lives. Many spiritually-minded persons have glimpsed the truth and proved it to an extent. Our faith, however, should not rest on less than an understood Principle of being.

Are you and I grateful enough that the nature of the divine Principle, God, is fully described and set forth in the Christian Science textbook? Are we so grateful that we use every opportunity to demonstrate the truths so dearly set before us? If the answer is "Yes," then our lives, like the lives of those who have stood for Truth, are a telling influence on humanity. Also, the genuine and lasting satisfaction of work well done is ours. Christ Jesus said (John 13:17), "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them."

The ninth chapter of the Gospel of John records that during Jesus' ministry he healed a certain man who had been blind from birth. The disciples wanted to know where the sin lay, with the man or with his parents. Perhaps they sought a false cause. Jesus wanted one thing only—"that the works of God should be made manifest." His straightforward answer was, "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." He added, "I must work the works of him that sent me;" and then he healed the blind man. The man, in turn, said to those who inquired of him about the healing, "One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see." The proof of his healing was better than volumes of explanations.

Jesus said (John 16:12), "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." Even when it seems wisdom for us not to discuss Christian Science with others, nothing should prevent us from demonstrating it in good works. Science can always be illustrated by Christian healing. It is essential that the light of scientific understanding shine through our words and works.

It might be said that the power of Christian Science is twofold: with Christian compassion it heals the sick, comforts the sorrowing, removes the mask of ignorance and sin from mankind, and inspires with brotherly kindness and love; and with scientific and logical explanations it shows us how this is accomplished, thus laying the foundation for more works of Christly nature. The method for proper and successful demonstration of this Science is clearly and simply set forth in Science and Health and in Mrs. Eddy's other writings.

In acquainting one with the facts contained therein two rules of thumb have been found practical and useful: to be sincere and accurate in the statement of Science and in the recounting of proofs from one's experience and from the experience of those whom he knows personally. The sincere student does not claim to know all there is to know about Science, but explains to the seeker for Truth that he is continuously striving to gain more understanding. Mrs. Eddy writes. "A deep sincerity is sure of success, for God takes care of it" (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 203).

Our words will carry more weight if we do not exaggerate our demonstration or claim an ability to prove beyond our present understanding. Whenever a certain businessman of more than ordinary success and standing in the community stands up at a Wednesday testimony meeting in a branch Church to give thanks to God, his testimony is listened to expectantly, because he speaks with entire honesty and sincerity. He does not hesitate to admit that at times he has entertained doubt and fear during trials, but states that he has been able to overcome these arguments and prove God's eternal love and tender care for man. His child. Those who hear him are thus encouraged, for his example shows them that the false beliefs of mortal mind which they themselves may be accepting can be mastered.

Yes, it is demonstration that fulfills our highest duty to mankind, not words or theories. Christian Science demonstrates the power of God and shows man, the reflection of God, to be perfect, whole, and ever satisfied. The opportunity to demonstrate the truth of being is before us. Let us with joy make full use of it.