I like to think of Church in many different ways. But most consistently, I find myself thinking of the definition of Church given in the Glossary of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. She writes of Church as "the structure of Truth and Love; whatever rests upon and proceeds from divine Principle." Science and Health, p. 583.
Gaining a spiritual understanding of Church is a dimension of drawing closer to God. Going about our day conscious that we are actually within "the structure of Truth and Love" is very different from simply attending a church service on Sunday. And yet our daily experiences and challenges can impel us to gain a clearer understanding of Church and to appreciate the purpose and value in our lives of church work and attendance. Not too long ago, thinking about Church in this way helped me to gain a better understanding of Christian healing.
I was walking from one building to another on my college campus during a winter storm. Sleet was stinging my face; cold winds penetrated my jacket. I was holding my books close to me, struggling to get to my next class. On top of all that, I was ill and felt miserable! I needed to go to school because of a test and important assignments, and I was muddling along in self-pity. Poor me! Could I make it through the day? I should be in my warm home, maybe cuddled up in bed....
