When I became interested in Christian Science, my progress was encouraged by the warm reception I received as a newcomer to the local branch Church of Christ, Scientist. It was filled with members who were reaching out to the community and welcoming the stranger. I later became a member of that church and found the joy that comes from welcoming others and making them feel at home.
How important it is in fulfilling the purpose of our church to let the stranger know the love we sincerely feel in our hearts! A friendly smile and unselfish interest in an unfamiliar face can show that members value Church and wish to support it through demonstrating in their lives the spiritual love that attracts and heals. Unselfish concern for others is needed.
Christ Jesus teaches that the rewards are great for those who warmly minister to the stranger. He declares, "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: ... Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."Matt. 25:34, 35, 40; Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and countless parables, including the one about the good Samaritan, amply provide evidence that the Way of Christ, Truth, is the way of unselfish love.
