One Sunday after church I fell, hitting my face hard on the pavement. I stayed on the ground a few moments, unable to get up. Two passersby kindly offered to help me, and once I was back on my feet I thanked them. Then, with a swollen face and what felt like a broken nose, I went back to join my son and daughter-in-law in front of the church.
I should say that several years earlier, before I was introduced to Christian Science, I fell when getting off a train and broke my nose. Medical treatment was given. I had difficulty breathing for many months. As the situation grew worse, the doctor had to break the nose again in order to reset the bone. So I had a very painful memory of that accident and its consequences, and now at first I was afraid that I might have to go to the hospital. But when I reached my son he immediately reminded me of some texts from that morning's Lesson-Sermon (outlined in the Christian Science Quarterly), which was on the subject "Adam and Fallen Man." His words suddenly awakened me, and I realized I would have all the help I needed from God.
When we reached home I asked my son to continue praying with me. We recognized and maintained that since God is All-in-all, man could never, at any time or in any situation, be outside His control or His government. All that God has made—including man, His beloved, spiritual child—He preserves, protects, and maintains forever in its original, perfect state.
We also found inspiration and strength in a wonderful text from the book of Nehemiah. Addressing his enemies, Nehemiah says, "The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem." In Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy, part of the description of New Jerusalem reads, "the kingdom of heaven, or reign of harmony." I realized this could be taken as a description of my spiritual consciousness, which has its source in God. In this heavenly consciousness, evil not only has no place and no right but also it has no memorial. This understanding filled me with joy. I was coming out of mental darkness and found myself in the light of spiritual truth. The pain instantly left. The next day I was back to my normal daily activity.
A few days later, however, I felt some pain when breathing. My nose was becoming blocked. Realizing that doubt and fear were again trying to surface, I spoke to my son. We thought about Nehemiah's example again. We recalled that his enemies had tried not just once but several times and in different ways—sometimes violent, sometimes subtle—to destroy his work of rebuilding the wall at Jerusalem. But Nehemiah never gave in; he was so sure of the presence and infallible support of God, divine Love.
Strengthened by this example, I regained my peace in the firm assurance that God would give me the victory. Soon I was able to breathe freely, and the aftereffects of the fall disappeared in the ensuring days.
I have had many healings through the study and practice of Christian Science, and my gratitude to God is infinite.
Moutier, Switzerland
I am the son mentioned in Yvonne Bobillier's testimony. I can attest to the accuracy of the facts related therein.
We came out of church around 10:45 a.m., and at the noonday meal my mother was free of shock and pain. Within several days she was completely healed.
This experience taught me a great deal, for I felt very strongly the presence and power of Truth. Never at any time was I tempted to believe the outward appearance. Through spiritual sense I was seeing God's creation.
My mother is a sincere student of Christian Science. A kind and dedicated worker, she is an active and much-valued member of our Christian Science Society, where her many duties have included service as First Reader.
