In reading recent criticisms of Christian Science and Christian Scientists, the thought came to me, Are we as Christian Scientists doing our full part toward the establishment of the reign of brotherly love on earth?
We know that we and our critics alike have but one Father, even God, and that therefore, whatever the appearance may be, we are in reality now and forever, brothers and sisters in Christ. Then how shall we demonstrate and prove this great, beautiful, love-impelling fact? shall we answer the unkind criticism in the spirit of unkindness and resentment or give the soft answer that turneth away wrath? Perchance we, in our turn, may misunderstand our critics, taking for actual malice on their part that which is "zeal of God, but not according to knowledge."
Mrs. Eddy says in "Miscellaneous Writings," p. 149, in speaking of our weekly testimonial meetings and of our guests on those occasions: "Invite all cordially and freely to this banquet of Christian Science, this feast and flow of Soul. Ask them to bring what they possess of love and light to help leaven your loaf, and replenish your scanty store." Each man in his heart of hearts desires to live and be good, then can we not prove to him by lovingkindness our discipleship in Christ, and show him that the goodness which he desires is with us? Can we not also show him that the Science of Christianity understood and faithfully practised will satisfy his heart-hunger, and will lead him to God who is all Love? Then, "if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother."
