The importance of the prophetic word is indicated by the fact that, it comprises about one fourth of the entire Scriptures, also by the Master's care in pointing to its fulfillment in his own experience and ministry. We have become, as a general rule, so accustomed to think of the prophecies as chiefly concerned with a remote past or a remote future, that we do not perhaps fully realize, in this connection, that our own time is to us the only connecting link between the past and the future, and therefore the most important period there now is.
Jesus rebuked the spiritual dullness that could "discern the face of the sky," but could not "discern the signs of the times." Is there not likewise the possible danger of Christian Scientists becoming so absorbed with the things of their immediate environment as to get out of touch with the larger problems of human destiny? We must look up sometimes from the petty round of material cares, or we shall miss the glorious perspective of our world-wide movement, stretching away toward the new heaven and the new earth of prophetic vision that is even now beginning to loom on the mental horizon.
What the word of the prophets meant to the religious and political life of the early Israelites, had their counsel and warnings been heeded, is written plainly across the pages of the Old Testament, which is still pregnant with meaning concerning the religious and political life of the world to-day. Those spiritual seers voiced a wondrous message to the people of these "latter days," and its import is being written in no uncertain language across the pages of contemporary history. They who perceive the inner significance of what is now transpiring will recognize the present application of Jesus' words, "When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh."
