Likening the church membership to an orchestra could be useful in lifting us out of a passive role in church services. It is not enough to simply show up at the service and listen to some nice readings. We pick up our instruments and play when we come to the service with the message of the Lesson-SermonIn the Christian Science Quarterly. uppermost in consciousness. We actively support its presentation because we have to some extent demonstrated its truth in our attitudes, our actions, our lives. The result will be church services that heal and fill the heart with song—for members and nonmembers alike.
Multitudes gathered to hear the words of our Master, Christ Jesus. Some caught brief glimpses of the truth he taught. Others were satisfied when freed of a physical ailment. Still others turned a deaf ear. But there were also those who committed themselves wholly to his teachings. The demands placed on these people required them to relinquish passivity and take an active part in spreading the gospel.
The argument might present itself that one doesn't have a strong enough grasp on the Lesson-Sermon to play his part effectively. Isn't this all the more reason for attending the church service in order to strengthen our grasp?
