The following makes a point that may be a useful reminder to Christian Scientists: a stranger's inquiries can bring a surprising blessing. The Bible speaks of entertaining strangers because "thereby some have entertained angels unawares" (Heb. 13:2). No matter how threatening another's questions may seem, the demand to take a fresh look, a stranger's look, at the eternal Truth, can only strengthen our faith and our demonstration of God's power.
In a commentary on Acts 16:31, Mrs. Eddy writes, "The Scriptures require more than a simple admission and feeble acceptance of the truths they present; they require a living faith, that so incorporates their lessons into our lives that these truths become the motive-power of every act" (Miscellaneous Writings, pp. 196–197). This "living faith" is the best answer to what Paul de Vries refers to as "formaldehyde faith."
A while ago a large church invited me to preach the Sunday morning sermon. The only people who knew me were out of town that weekend, so I was on my own. I came early enough for Sunday school, and some very pleasant people introduced me to an adult class as a "visitor"—without anyone recognizing my name as the preacher for the morning service. The people in the class were certainly cordial. I was glad to be there.
