The importance of humility is seldom realized by the average Christian. Quite frequently there is a tendency to view humility as a virtue which it is neither pleasant to acquire nor profitable to exercise—a tendency due to a mistaken concept of this quality. The grandeur, the beauty, and the service of humility usually do not dawn on individuals until, through the teachings of Christian Science, their consciousness has been sufficiently spiritualized to submit in consecration to the will and wisdom of God, omnipotent Mind. Then a humble prayer is confidently offered for purification from self-sufficiency and erroneous conservatism in order that one's consciousness may reflect Mind, God. A much-loved hymn in our Hymnal extends this comforting invitation and promise:
"Trust the Eternal, and repent in meekness
Of that heart's pride which frowns
and will not yield,
Then to thy child-heart shall come strength
in weakness,
And thine immortal life shall be revealed."
When some concept of the magnitude of the revelation of Christian Science and the universality of its blessings is gained, the student bows in gratitude for this gracious gift of Love. Having received healing through the beneficent ministrations of Christian Science, we may say, in the words of our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 126), "We also have gained higher heights; have learned that trials lift us to that dignity of Soul which sustains us, and finally conquers them; and that the ordeal refines while it chastens."
