An entirely new concept of rest is found in the teaching of Christian Science. It is because of this new light on the question of what constitutes real rest that Christian Scientists often arrange their vacations with a special interest in making them an opportunity for spiritual refreshment, rather than a mere matter of miles of travel or rushing around seeking personal pleasure.
The Christian Science textbook "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, explains that "God rests in action" (p. 519). Man is God's reflection; therefore man too "rests in action." Humanity often believes that inaction, idleness, and even sheer laziness are the sources of refreshment. Inaction has no quality of renewal; it is the consciousness of good which strengthens and vivifies.
A writer one summer sought solitude in a mountain spot, hoping to shut himself away in a cabin where he could have complete quiet for his writing. But a long experienced man of the mountains counseled him otherwise. He said that the work could best be accomplished not within silent walls, but beside a creek, with birds singing all around and the mountain breeze stirring in the trees. He too had some understanding of the fact that peace of mind does not flower in an atmosphere of inactivity and stagnation, but thrives in the midst of harmonious activity. His counsel proved valuable, and in the early morning hours the writing was completed with spontaneous inspiration on a hillside by a stream, where the freshness and beauty and activity of nature were reminders of the harmonious and peaceful action of divine Mind.
