Christian Science is probably best known for the practice of spiritual healing. As a fourth-generation Christian Scientist, I have witnessed many circumstances in which this practice has proved effective; I've seen enough in my own life to convince me that it heals. But I also understand why those who are not familiar with Christian Science might wonder why anyone would choose to rely on God for physical healing.
Many years ago, something happened to me that in a modest way illustrates the redemptive and curative impact of this method of healing. A dentist suggested I have a tooth extracted, and presented it as a simple process. I agreed without thinking much about it. As I left the office, he gave me some painkillers, but I was confident I wouldn't be needing them when the Novocain wore off. Soon, however, I was in great discomfort. After several hours, the pain frightened me so much that I took the aspirin—thinking that, as the dentist had said, the tablets would take care of any problem. They didn't. If anything, the situation got worse. So I simply suffered. The next morning I phoned the dentist, who said, "Well, I didn't want to upset you, but you've got several days of pain ahead of you before things even out."
The moment I hung up, I dug out the phone number of a Christian Science practitioner and poured out my story. She assured me that she would pray for me right away. And—in less than five minutes—all the pain vanished and never returned. I was completely free.
