IN their eager desire to express progress in Christian Science, some individuals have made a headlong dash forward and perhaps have stubbed their toes and fallen. Then with some patience and some lessons learned, they have recovered their equilibrium and have been able to demonstrate a sure sense of good in their experience. At the other extreme, there may be some who are reluctant to step forward when the opportunity is theirs. They lean backwards or drag their feet in fear and uncertainty and hence do not enjoy the full fruits of progress. Surely there is a point between these extremes where the individual can make steady progress, remain erect, and take advantage of every opportunity.
Happily, we can learn from the experience of others. The impetuous Peter wanted to walk on the water before he understood the truth well enough to do so. Jesus' comment on this occasion was (Matt. 14:31), "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" On another occasion, when Peter assured Jesus that he would never forsake him, Jesus could see beyond the disciple's mortal sense of zeal and discern the need for stability and understanding. But as Peter learned his lessons he matured in his ability to demonstrate the truth and was afterwards enabled to raise the dead.
At the other extreme, we can learn from the doubting Thomas. He was skeptical in his approach. Being more materially minded than the other disciples, Thomas clung to the evidence of the physical senses. He missed the glory of Jesus' resurrection and said (John 20:25), "Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe."
