The word "intact" appears several times in the writings of Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, in conjunction with statements of man's spiritual, harmonious being. Its definition as given by Webster is, in part, "Untouched, especially by anything that harms; unimpaired; left entire." As a real comprehension of the word unfolds, one quickly sees how helpful, how necessary, it is to apply its meaning specifically to our men and women on active service abroad as well as to those who are returning for healing and loving care. Whether giving this care personally or in the quiet of prayerful thought, it is our privilege to know that man has never for an instant been subject to "anything that harms," that he is always "entire" because he has never been separated from the presence and love of God, and that he has never been involved in an experience which could impair God's image and likeness.
To be really efficacious, these declarations must be based on the understanding that those who have left their homes and countries, some of whom may be already on the firing lines, and those who, having served willingly and bravely are now entitled to rest and care, are, in their real being, spiritual ideas, forever safe in Mind, the source of all true being. Wherever their duty takes them, we can know they are in God's care, and we can remember the Psalmist's words: "Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me."
Should faith sometimes falter, and fear for the safety of our loved ones endeavor to rob us of the peace this understanding gives, we well might ask ourselves the thought-searching question voiced by Mrs. Eddy in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (pp. 493, 494), where, referring to the raising of Lazarus from the grave, she says, "Who dares to doubt this consummate test of the power and willingness of divine Mind to hold man forever intact in his perfect state, and to govern man's entire action?" Who would dare to entertain the suggestion that His power and willingness to guide and protect have been withdrawn or nullified?
