Have you ever asked yourself: Why am I here? Is life worth living? What is my reason for existing? When momentous questions such as these present themselves to Christian Scientists, they turn to the Bible and to the writings of our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, for an answer.
Christian Scientists being followers of Christ Jesus, his reason for being is their reason too. "I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me," said Jesus. He also said, "I must be about my Father's business." There was no doubt in Jesus' mind regarding the work he had to do, nor was there any doubt as to whether or not it was a worth-while business. From a child he was conscious of the importance of this work. Grown to manhood, he went about preaching, teaching, and healing the sick, tirelessly and joyously performing the works of God, his Father.
That Jesus expected others likewise to work for God is seen by his words to the disciples before the crucifixion, when he said, "He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also." Mary Baker Eddy knew that he was speaking not only to the disciples of his day but to all who believed on his word. She knew also that his promises are kept, and that he would not demand the impossible. When writing to a branch Church of Christ. Scientist, she said (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 165): "As an active portion of one stupendous whole, goodness identifies man with universal good. Thus may each member of this church rise above the oft-repeated inquiry. What am I? to the scientific response: I am able to impart truth, health, and happiness, and this is my rock of salvation and my reason for existing." How encouraging are these words to the student who may feel he is not doing his share of the work that needs to be done. Perhaps his friends are enlisting in the Army, are working in a defense plant, are taking first aid courses, or joining a civilian patrol. Some of them may be gaining notoriety for outstanding accomplishments. Need he follow their example in order to do something worth while? Not necessarily. The important point to consider is one's ability "to impart truth, health, and happiness."
