A Counsel of perfection! Sometimes this expression seems to be used in a rather sad, depreciatory way, as though counseling perfection might be likened to wishful thinking. But perfection is not an impossible ideal, since among the commands of the master Christian we find these words (Matt. 5:48): "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."
Christ Jesus did not mean that his words should present an abstract teaching, but a practical method of harmonious living. He supported his words by works which demonstrated the value of his teaching. By healing the sick, replacing lack with abundance, comforting the sorrowful, overcoming death with life, he helped humanity to achieve perfection. His whole career teaches us that a Christian must accept perfection not just as an ultimate goal, but as a present obligation.
In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mary Baker Eddy has given to the world the Science of Christianity so that all may study it, understand it, and apply it to the problems of daily life. This Science makes it plain that we need to lift our thoughts from the misconception of man as a suffering, sinning person, who seems to live and die in matter, to an understanding of man, the image and likeness of God, whose individuality is wholly spiritual. We need to appreciate and to express that which divinely is. A changeover in our thought is required, a changeover from illusion to reality.
