Some years ago, in extreme mental need, I held earnest consultation with a loved and eminent minister. In answer to my questions, he replied that he almost felt like accusing me of having dabbled with Christian Science literature. I told him that I had been seriously investigating along those lines, and to my surprise he said he had also. He added: "I have found, however, that there is nothing there for me,—no prayer, no communion, no sacrament, no resurrection, no judgment, no baptism, no personal Saviour. What do you think you would have left on which to stand if these fundamental essentials of your Christian faith and teaching were taken from you?" Somewhat aghast at such a staggering array of statements, I admitted that about all the supports would indeed have been pulled out from under me; but still I questioned what he thought of the wonderful proofs being made manifest through Christian Science every day, and if he did not think the church of today should meet our manifold needs along these lines.
I have no thought of criticism for this minister, who was a channel for much good, but my experience illustrates how cultured orthodox thought is still helping to influence and keep many a "little one" from coming to the truth. Nevertheless, as Mrs. Eddy says in Science and Health (Pref., p. vii),"Truth, independent of doctrines and time-honored systems, knocks at the portal of humanity," and the Master's voice says to each one, "Follow me." As my earnest questions were given conclusive answers by a Christian Science practitioner, and my needs were met one by one, I was finally enabled to turn unreservedly to Truth, to let go of all the old stubborn beliefs and the more stubborn human will, that the new wine of Spirit might pour in.
I then found the most satisfying prayer I had ever known; the only doctrine of atonement that I could ever harmonize with the thought of a loving Father; a resurrection now from the dead; communion and sacrament far above any material form. I found one Lord, one faith, one baptism,—indeed, no personal Saviour, but the Christ-idea, ever present Truth, the Comforter, saying as clearly to me today, "Wilt thou be made whole?" as when the multitude pressed and the hem of the garment could be felt and handled materially. To me the peace and comfort of the import of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," has been a staff and shield, a daily help in every time of need. I can indeed "run, and not be weary;" can "walk, and not faint."
