Every earnest student of Christian Science constantly strives for a clearer realization of the Christ. An exalted state of thought cannot be gained, however, by passively wishing for it, by feeble effort, or intermittent devotion to the study of the Bible and of our Leader's writings. An earnest, fervent desire, coupled with constant, persistent, prayerful effort to think and live rightly, clears our vision so that we may behold the perfection of God and His creation, including man. As we abide in this realization, the arguments of mortal mind are definitely shut out.
In the Gospel of Luke is recorded an incident vital in its import to every Bible student. We are given a picture of the faithful women who were actively engaged in doing what they could, after the tragedy on Calvary, to express the love they had for the pure and holy Christ Jesus, who had been their friend, counselor, and guide. Very early in the morning, just as the sun was rising, we find them coming to the sepulcher. They might have remained at home, buried in grief, inactive through fear, overwhelmed with despair; but oh, what a glorious experience came to them through their desire to pay homage to their Master! To their very great amazement "they found the stone rolled away." Homage, motivated by love, never fails to lift consciousness above self and to clear the way for a fresh vision of the Christ.
Why were so few there to share in that wonderful experience? One reason might be that his followers were acquiescing with the mortal mind arguments of separation, loneliness, and grief. Mesmeric suggestions never open the door through which we may consciously pass into Love's presence. But an earnest, heartfelt prayer that we may be awakened to glorify God with our every thought is always answered. Our Leader's blessed admonition in "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 150) might well become our petition. She says, "Then, in speechless prayer, ask God to enable you to reflect God, to become His own image and likeness, even the calm, clear, radiant reflection of Christ's glory, healing the sick, bringing the sinner to repentance, and raising the spiritually dead in trespasses and sins to life in God."
