IN the textbook of Christian Science, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (pp. 495, 496), Mary Baker Eddy, whom the world will in time recognize as the greatest benefactor of mankind since Christ Jesus, answers a question that frequently comes to the thought of the sincere student of Christian Science, namely, "How can I progress most rapidly in the understanding of Christian Science?" And her answer is in part as follows: "Study thoroughly the letter and imbibe the spirit." The rest of the answer is an amplification of this statement.
The Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science laid much stress on the need for constant spiritual development. Throughout her published writings there is indicated an intense desire that Christian Scientists not merely study, but also bring forth, the fruits of this teaching. Christian Science will continue to spread, and to bless humanity, in the ratio that Christian Scientists imbibe its spirit. Plenty of us have acquired a good deal of the letter. Many of us are able to quote profusely from the writings of our Leader, and to talk volubly on the subject of Christian Science; but this does not always indicate great spirituality of thought. Without doubt, our most consecrated effort should be to drink deeply of the spirit of Christian Science, so that the world may be more effectively benefited. As Christian Scientists increasingly "imbibe the spirit," mankind will recognize more generally the divine origin of Christian Science and gratefully partake of its healing ministrations. Our devotion to this endeavor leads us into the pathway of humility and selfless love.
There are many who have reaped rich benefits from Christian Science, but who as yet appear willing to give but little in return. There is no wisdom in this, for the persistent with-holder can get no farther than the threshold of the kingdom of heaven. Then, too, things that are acquired with the expenditure of but small effort are oftentimes lightly valued. Such an attitude should be carefully guarded against, lest it lead to spiritual barrenness. Christian Science issues no short cuts to the kingdom of heaven; nor can it be bargained with for entrance thereto. It sets a definite price—all that we have.
