As members of the Church of Christ, Scientist, we may ask ourselves what we have accomplished during the past year, individually and as a church. Have we done all we could do toward the establishment of the Truth in the hearts of men. As a result of our work many sick have been healed, many erring have been led aright, many weary and heavy laden have found rest, and darkness has given place to light. These "signs following" have made glad our hearts, and encourage us to press on.
We have done well, but in the year to come we can and will do better in all lines of action. We are not dissatisfied, but unsatisfied, when we contemplate the magnitude of the work before us; and this work, like charity, begins at home, but does not end there.
We must ourselves be spiritualized and uplifted, if we would raise others out of error and disease. It has been truly said that "what you are that only can you teach, not voluntarily, but involuntarily." It is what we are, more than what we say or do, that influences others for good or evil. Our work is not alone in self-denial, but in the denial of self; a turning away from the mortal and material sense of life, and we must take up this cross. By so doing we shall never be found wanting in unity and the fruits of the Spirit; personal ambition and envy can find no place among us; the doors of our church will be always closed to error, but open wide to the entrance of spirituality and power, and to the seekers after God. "And I, if I be lifted up, ... will draw all men unto me," said the Master.
