What you represent

The Editors

Have you ever thought what you as a reader of this magazine represent to the world?

While most of the seven billion inhabitants on our planet believe in prayer and worship God in some form, those who read, value, and contribute to these magazines stand as a beacon to others in contrast to some rather commonly accepted beliefs and practices.

For instance, most people believe that their lives are entirely physical in nature and that each new year brings them closer to death. This concept also buys into increased restrictions on physical activities, and a dependence on chemicals, medicine, or medical procedures. In addition, the majority of people believe that their lives are at the mercy of genetic codes, infectious disease, medical pronouncements, accidents, and chance.

On the other hand, students of Christian Science are learning and proving that God is Life, the source of all health, well-being, and vigor; never diminishing but ever-expanding capacities and activities. God’s law means progress and fullness of life. So many of you have experienced the ever-available power and grace of God to heal, restore, bless, and make whole.

It’s so easy to feel small and insignificant, especially when you’re part of a small religious minority. It can feel as if the world is against you. It probably felt that way many times to Jesus, Peter, Paul, and the other apostles. They represented the same small minority 2,000 years ago. And yet, instead of drawing inward, they went outward with their message and their practice of healing.

No matter how small you may think your contribution is, it is almost certainly having a greater impact than you think it is.

Somehow, instead of feeling oppressed and beleaguered, they felt empowered, emboldened with a sense of mission and vision. The disciples and apostles proactively went out to a pagan, materialistic world, full of ignorance and hostility, with a message of Christ love and redemption. Christ Jesus gave them their orders. He said: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house” (Matt. 5:14, 15).

Mary Baker Eddy expounded on this: “You may know when first Truth leads by the fewness and faithfulness of its followers. Thus it is that the march of time bears onward freedom’s banner. The powers of this world will fight, and will command their sentinels not to let truth pass the guard until it subscribes to their systems; but Science, heeding not the pointed bayonet, marches on. There is always some tumult, but there is a rallying to truth’s standard” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 225).

Yes, there is opposition to the Christ, Truth, but so many are desperate to find a path, a better way in life. They probably don’t know it is Christian Science that they seek. They usually don’t know how to ask for it. But they are receptive to its message and healing touch. The prospect of meeting that need becomes a powerful motivation—a Christlike love that overpowers any worldly fear, insignificance, or intimidation.

Though few in numbers, we have the same opportunity as the early apostles had—to embrace their mission with a sense of both humility and specialness, a Christly calling. We may be part of a small minority, but one that carries a unique message to others—the Science of Christ. And no matter how small you may think your contribution is, it is almost certainly having a greater impact than you think it is.

So thank you, dear readers, for what you represent—for what you value, what you stand for, and the example you give to others. The world has need of you! So keep reading and continue shining that Christ light from the top of your hill.

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December 26, 2011

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