The great motive power behind the practice of Christian Science is described in John 3:16: "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." In this is seen the activity of divine Principle expressed in its highest visible idea and manifest in the saving and redeeming action of the Christ. Everyone interested in entering this work must take into account the Christly qualities embodied in the human Jesus.
It is significant that in the textbook, Science and Health, Mrs. Eddy begins the chapter on Christian Science Practice with the experience of Christ Jesus healing the woman who has since been called Mary Magdalene. This experience of healing gives a clear portrayal of the role of the practitioner. It points up the qualities essential for the practice and shows particularly that love and compassion for the sick and sinning are prime requisites.
One of the foremost of these qualities was Jesus' spiritual-mindedness. It was his spiritual sense that enabled him to discern the woman's readiness for healing. It was also this same sense that pointed out Simon 's unreadiness for spiritual progress. Mrs. Eddy says, "We approach God, or Life, in proportion to our spirituality, our fidelity to Truth and Love; and in that ratio we know all human need and are able to discern the thought of the sick and the sinning for the purpose of healing them." Science and Health, p. 95;
