THE phrase "singleness of purpose" carries within itself a demand and an inspiration. It speaks of weights laid aside, and of a turning away from the sins which "so easily beset us" to purely spiritual ends worthy of many material sacrifices. Oftentimes we are irked in our work by a sense of futility. Of what avail is all this? comes the recurrent suggestion. Were I not so faithfully at work in Christian Science would not terrestrial things go forward quite as successfully? Can my efforts be of great importance? Will a slight deviation from the straight way be harmful? When such thoughts assail us, it is well to examine our motives to see whether we have a single or a divided purpose.
A Christian Scientist, when engaged in mental housecleaning, may be astonished to discover that all unknowingly his early lofty purpose has dropped toward selfish ends. Just when this began to occur he may be puzzled to remember; yet he sadly realizes that the former selfless striving has in some way descended to the ends of personal gain or advancement. This fault uncovered, repentance is sharp, and the desire to correct the error sincere. What, then, should be the purpose of the Christian Scientist? The answer to this question is to be found in the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy. Prayerful daily study of the Bible and the writings of Mrs. Eddy will bring the desired answer and the coveted healing. The light may come quickly, or the healing may require much patient labor.
On page 317 of the volume of her collected writings dedicated to loyal Christian Scientists and entitled "Miscellaneous Writings," Mrs. Eddy speaks of the admirable purpose which wins her approval, thus: "My sympathies are deeply enlisted for the students of students; having already seen in many instances their talents, culture, and singleness of purpose to uplift the race." So our dear Leader outlines the noble purpose with which she is in deep sympathy, namely, the uplifting of the race.
