ALL men long for happiness and usually seek it in material things or conditions; but materiality never satisfies. Mortals dream that the possession of a special object or the achievement of a particular worldly ambition will result in happiness; but no sooner is one desire gratified than it is succeeded by another, promising bliss, but disappointing when realized. As the English poet, Pope, has expressed it, referring to mortal man, "Man never is, but always to be blest." What a parody on man, the real, eternal, blessed child of God, who, in His likeness, is completely satisfied ; for man is now, always has been, and forever will be at-one with God; and with God there "is fulness of joy."
Oh, the joy of being conscious, even in a degree, that we are at-one with God; that we are in the presence of Life, wherein is neither death, separation, nor sorrow; in the presence of Truth, wherein is no belief of disease or sin; in the presence of Mind, wherein is no matter; and perhaps most satisfying thought of all, that we are in the sweet, sacred presence of divine Love, ever at-one with our heavenly Father, listening for His voice, knowing His will and joyfully obeying it, exulting in His strength, eternally thanking Him for His wonderful care, and forever glorifying Him for His goodness. In the divine presence we have fullness of good, fullness of love, fullness of life, fullness of all that constitutes harmonious being; and this understanding brings fullness of joy, joy which is neither increased nor diminished by any material condition,—even the joy which our Master said should remain with us,—deep, abiding joy, the fruit of the Spirit, the gift of Love.
This heavenly joy, so much to be desired, cannot be called forth at will; nor is it conferred upon those who merely ask for it ; nor can it be attained in a moment. It must be considered as a definite result, the natural consequence of work well and faithfully done, as is shown in the parable of the talents. To the faithful servant it was said, "Enter thou into the joy of thy lord"—but only after his work was finished. How important, then, for us as Christian Scientists to pray earnestly that we may know the work that is ours to do, in order that we too may merit the blessing of His joy!
