All Bible students are familiar with the words of Christ Jesus, found in the eighth chapter of John, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Our freedom is dependent on our continuing in his word, on being active followers of the Master and of our great Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, who has interpreted his words and works. Only as we grow in grace can we experience, and help others to experience, the freedom, safety, and joy of the sons of God. This Christly activity is indispensable to our recognition of man's security in the ever-present kingdom of heaven.
Every sincere student of Christian Science has surely proved in some measure that the understanding of the truth of spiritual being—which includes the denial of all that is not good—overcomes fear, with its many aggressive mental suggestions. But do we sufficiently realize that this tremendous revelation brings to human consciousness not only peace, satisfaction, and healing, but the sword of Truth and certain great obligations? We are reminded of this in an article by our Leader, commencing on page 176 of "Miscellaneous Writings," in which she asks us these heart-searching questions: "But what of ourselves, and our times and obligations? Are we duly aware of our own great opportunities and responsibilities? Are we prepared to meet and improve them, to act up to the acme of divine energy wherewith we are armored?"
No thinker can doubt that we are living in perilous times, in the latter days of Biblical prophecy, with many wonderful discoveries and inventions, but also with threats of devastating evils. One rejoices that heartfelt prayers are going forth continuously from all Christendom. Those who are searching and pondering the Holy Scriptures in the light thrown upon them by "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy are being equipped and armored to pray the prayers of scientific affirmations of spiritual facts, with the necessary vigorous denials of the false suggestions of materiality. These prayers are mighty to clear the mist of materialism with its fears, aggression, distortions, and miseries.
