In the parable of the talents Jesus likened the kingdom of heaven unto a man traveling into a far country, who, before he set out, called his three servants to him and delivered to them his goods. When he returned, two of the servants could show progress because of the intelligent use of that which their master had so lovingly provided for them; but the third, ignorantly or intentionally, had allowed himself to become the tool of evil. He confessed to three grave faults: first, to the error of evil thinking; second, to the error of fear and distrust in good; and third, to the burial of the right idea. Those servants who had proved true to the trust of their master rose higher in their demonstration, being made rulers over many things. But the slothful man could neither go up higher nor keep the place he had proved himself unworthy to maintain. He could not, in other words, stand still. And as he did not go forward, he fell back, until through suffering and repentance he became willing to make sincere efforts in his own behalf.
This has been the experience of at least one student of Christian Science. When the incomparable gift of Christian Science had been presented and accepted, several years passed in enjoyment of all its privileges and the greater sense of freedom which is the natural effect of the entrance of the truth into human consciousness. Forward steps were made eagerly up to a certain point; but these were followed by long periods of inaction, and no little degree of self-satisfaction and complacency. As a result, when advancement ceased, the downward journey began. This was manifested in a lack of desire to study and in nonattendance at church; and when the subject of church membership was mentioned by friend or practitioner, the smug phrase about not being a "joiner" was always the answer.
At last, through suffering and a severe testing time, this unfaithful servant saw his mistake. After a beautiful healing in Christian Science, with deep gratitude for the consecration of faithful workers who labored with no thought of themselves, there came the desire to be of service also. The longing was felt to work shoulder to shoulder with these good and faithful servants; to bear with them the burden and heat of the day; to give a cup of cold water to those thirsting for the ceaseless fountain of Truth. The most natural thing to do was to join with those who were proving their faith by deeds.
