"We must look deep into realism instead of accepting only the outward sense of things." This authoritative statement, which is a challenge to thinkers and a rule for would-be reformers, is given by Mary Baker Eddy on page 129 of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." It offers guidance, not merely for abstract study, but for daily living.
According to "the outward sense of things," what is termed realistic is often sordid, a mixture of good and evil, with evil claiming to be dominant. But Christian Science, starting from a spiritual standpoint, declaring the allness of God, or good, and the essential goodness of His creation, finds realism only in what God makes. The consciousness of His harmonious universe is the kingdom of God, which Jesus said "is within you." Where closed doors and disappointments seem to be, he who looks deep into realism finds hope and opportunity.
It is plain that to give merely a passing thought to spiritual things while giving all our energy to material living, is not enough. To get results, to prove the truth of being, we must look earnestly, steadily, into Truth. We look deep when we not only desire but wait and listen for God's directing. We look deep when we take the Bible and the Christian Science textbook and read them thoughtfully, with the expectation of receiving light and help.
