Healing is a quiet thing, experienced within the sanctuary of our own thought. Healing is not a miraculous exhibition, but a sign of Immanuel, or "God with us." It is perceived in stillness and calm, even as a reflection is seen most clearly in still waters. Healing involves a shift in thought, a yielding to God's presence and love. It is then manifested outwardly in our bodies, our relationships, homes, businesses.
Sometimes we may be tempted to look for a dramatic sign that will precede or accompany healing. But this preoccupation may blind us to the redemptive and restorative presence of the healing Christ already active within our consciousness. In Science and Health Mary Baker Eddy writes: "To-day the healing power of Truth is widely demonstrated as an immanent, eternal Science, instead of a phenomenal exhibition. Its appearing is the coming anew of the gospel of 'on earth peace, goodwill toward men.' This coming, as was promised by the Master, is for its establishment as a permanent dispensation among men ...." Science and Health, p. 150. The "permanent dispensation" of divine goodness is available now and forever, to each of us. Our part is to maintain a quiet, consecrated expectancy so we can recognize the appearing of Christ.
Jesus' parable of ten virgins who take their lamps to wait for the coming of the bridegroom illustrates the importance of expectancy. See Matt. 25:1-13 . Five were foolish and took only their lamps but no additional oil in vessels, while the five wise ones took lamps and vessels full of oil. The wise virgins were not waiting for an outward sign to tell them what to do to be ready for the bridegroom or even whether to do it. They demonstrated their trustworthiness and unwavering faith by being prepared with sufficient oil for the night. The unwise ones' lack of preparedness excluded them from the wedding.
