How can my study and practice of Christian Science be more practical, energetic, and result in more healing?
This year I began a quest to better understand how to be a true disciple of Christ. I began with the definition of disciple: “A learner, a scholar, a follower.” And also, “One who subscribes to the teachings of a master and assists in spreading them.”
At a recent Wednesday testimony meeting I was struck by something that was in the readings that night—the biblical account of our Master, Christ Jesus, withering the unfruitful fig tree (see Matthew 21:19–22). I was able to make the connection between active discipleship and a fruitful life experience. I wondered, were my actions productive—or subject to being withered for being fruitless? The book of Genesis says, “Be fruitful, and multiply”(1:22). So what are the fruits of my labor, that they may multiply and bring glory to God?
Being fruitful stems from our relationship to our source. As God is our creator, it is only natural that we are rooted and grounded in Him. Plants take in nourishment, and as God’s reflection, we are nourished by Him, by His pure, spiritual thoughts. When the thoughts we entertain are from God, omnipotent good, this results in flourishing, productive fruition. When we entertain materialistic thoughts, engage in unproductive activities and distractions, our fruitfulness is choked, as surely as weeds choke the fruitful plants in a garden. We feel disconnected from our nourishment—our divine source. Mary Baker Eddy’s statement shows the kind of devotion that is never distracted from its purpose: “…silent prayer, watchfulness, and devout obedience enable us to follow Jesus’ example” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 4).
I’ve come to see that being fruitful requires a dedicated commitment to following Jesus’ example. Since his life exemplified fruitfulness, it’s important to look to his life and works as our guide today. “My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father” (John 15:8, New Living Translation).
As I reflect upon my desire for a more active discipleship, I strive for a more thoughtful approach to my day-to-day choices—what do my actions/efforts/choices say about bringing glory to God? Mary Baker Eddy brings the answer: “Am I living the life that approaches the supreme good? Am I demonstrating the healing power of Truth and Love? If so, then the way will grow brighter ‘unto the perfect day.’ Your fruits will prove what the understanding of God brings to man” (Science and Health, p. 496).
