Some years ago, although I considered myself a sincere student of Christian Science, I often felt like a second-string football player who spends much of his time on the bench. I felt lacking that fuller spiritual conviction that leads to the heights of healing and regeneration. Determined to overcome this lack, I began a thorough, in-depth study of the Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. My goal: to gain a dearer concept of my true identity and relationship with God. An understanding of man's spiritual identity leads to freedom and dominion.
I was soon challenged to prove my dawning spiritual conviction. I had just pulled into a parking lot, when the car door was thrown open and I was confronted by two youths. One had a gun and threatened my life if I did not surrender my wallet and car keys. After I gave them these they locked me in the trunk of my car, then drove off in it. At first I felt overwhelmed by danger. I also found it difficult to breathe and cried out. The car was stopped. The youths made further threats on my life if I did not remain quiet, and aimed a blow at my head. I was left locked in the trunk as the trip continued.
This immediately jolted me to apply the truths of this Science. I was reassured by these words (Ps. 46:10): "Be still, and know that I am God." I remained as still as possible, both physically and mentally. The feeling of panic began to recede as I quietly said aloud the Lord's Prayer, with its spiritual interpretation, given in Science and Health (see pp. 16-17). In this calmness I more readily accepted and affirmed comforting truths from divine Mind. I saw a need to replace all fear with the knowledge of this Mind's complete control and direction of His idea, man.
